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Last call: Apply now for the Shoprite Group’s comprehensive bursaries The Shoprite Group invites high-performing students to apply for its bursary programme for the 2023 and 2024 academic years. Students enrolled for degree studies in Criminology, Accounting, Information Technology, Retail Business Management, Food Science and more can now apply for funding by visiting the Group’s …
SIU to investigate maladministration allegations at KZN premier's office
The Special Investigating Unit will probe allegations of maladministration in the Office of the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal related to the appointment of a consultant to support the province’s six priority programmes.
The unit was authorised to investigate the office by a proclamation signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“The investigation will also look to see if there was any unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the Office of the Premier in KZN, or losses suffered by the Provincial Office or the State.
“Furthermore, the SIU will seek to establish whether there was any irregular, improper or unlawful conduct by the contractors, employees, or officials of the Office of the Premier and the suppliers, service providers, or any other person or entity,” the unit said.
The SIU said the investigation will cover the period between April 2007 and 29 July 2023.
“In addition to investigating maladministration and malpractice, the SIU will also identify failures, and will also make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses.
“The SIU is empowered to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name, to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigations caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 08/02/2023 - 10:48
The five countries of MIKTA, such as Mexico, Indonesia, Türkiye, and Australia held the Batik and Wire Jewelry in cooperation with North West Province Government, South Africa (27-28/7) at Sun City Convention Center, Rustenburg.
The training which was held within the framework of Indonesia's chairmanship in the intra-regional forum for middle-power countries, raised the theme of inclusive economic recovery as one of Indonesia's chairmanship priorities in 2023.
The cooperation between MIKTA and North West Province was done by recruiting 50 training participants from the province who came from vulnerable groups economically affected after the Covid-19 pandemic, consisting of women, youth and disabled.
The participants of the two-day training for both batik and jewelry appeared highly enthusiastic, as conveyed by Ellen Modi, one of the local designers who participated. “As a participant, we are very happy with this activity which gave us new insights about Batik. This is a chance for us to develop our design skills, especially in Batik".
The training activities involved Indonesian instructor, Venny Afwany Alamsyah from Batik House Indonesia and were witnessed by officials of embassies from every MIKTA country in Pretoria, South Africa, namely Republic of Korea Ambassador, Chull-joo Park; Türkiye Ambassador, Ayşegül Kandaş; and Australia Ambassador, Tegan Brink, and Chargé d'Affaires ad Interim of the Embassy of Mexico, Elía del Carmen Sosa Nishizaki; KUAI Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) Pretoria, Victor J. Sambuaga. These officials also had the opportunity to try making batik on the sidelines of the activity.
To represent his colleagues, the heads of representatives of MIKTA country members, Victor J. Sambuaga, the Indonesian Embassy in Pretoria welcomed the activities initiated by both parties, MIKTA and North West Province. “This is clear evidence of MIKTA country members' contributions as international entities toward accreditation areas, such as South Africa, especially in North West Province. These kinds of activities can hopefully impact the development of small and medium enterprises which of course we all hope together could push the community's economic growth, especially in the North West Province.
In line with Sambuaga, Thabo Mabe, Chief Director of the North West Province Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation expressed his belief that this activity, which is also a form of cultural exchange for the two countries will produce good results for the beneficiary communities. “We warmly welcome this activity, especially since it will be advantageous for women, youth, and the disabled. The goal is to empower the community through capacity building which is expected to create jobs for the community."
As it is known, Indonesia has set 3 priorities for its chairmanship in 2023, consist of Strengthening Multilateralism, Inclusive Economic Recovery, and Digital Transformation. The echoes of Indonesia's chairmanship began since continuing as chairman of the MIKTA forum from Türkiye since March 2023.
The event was concluded with a recorded message from high-ranking Indonesian officials, the Director General for Multilateral Affairs of the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, Tri Tharyat, and the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Africa, Y.M. Candith Mashego-Dlamini.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of Indonesia.
President Ramaphosa welcomes NDP report
President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the review report of the National Development Plan (NDP) presented by the National Planning Commission (NPC) on Tuesday, at the Union Buildings, in Tshwane.
The NPC briefed the President about their findings having reviewed the country’s progress against the objectives and targets of the National Development Plan: Vision 2030 (NDP) in the past decade.
President Ramaphosa said that the 10 Year Review of the NDP will help in identifying the underlying challenges that hinder the state and its social partners from achieving greater progress effectively.
“The 10 Year Review of the NDP will assist us in identifying the systemic issues that limit the effectiveness of the state and its social partners in making greater progress. We need to be able to plan better, to integrate and coordinate the work of different departments and institutions, and to ensure that we are using our limited resources most effectively.
“It is important that the State has the capacity to meet its developmental responsibilities, that it is appropriately structured that has the right people in the right places with the appropriate skills and ethos,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa committed his administration’s support to the commission and to ensure that the proposals presented are incorporated into government across all departments and spheres.
The President further underscored the importance of strong leadership and partnership with labour, civil society, communities and business in effecting the envisaged change.
The NDP, which was drafted by the first Commission in the 2010-2012 period and adopted by all parties represented in Parliament in 2012, is the long-term plan for national development. It provides guidance for all Government policy formulation and implementation.
In this regard, government uses the Medium-Term Strategic Framework in order to implement the NDP in a structured manner, across Government departments and spheres. It is also used to mobilise all South Africans to take ownership of the country’s long-term plan, its objectives, and targets.
One of the main findings made in the Ten-Year Review of the NPC was that the economy was not only failing to grow at the rate required for the objectives of NDP to materialise, but the economy was also not structured to serve the interests of all South Africans, resulting in poverty and inequality remaining extremely high and persistent.
The report further stated that the economic, social, and spatial legacies of apartheid, inappropriate economic policies that prevent redistribution, and the hollowing out of state capacity during the state capture years continue to undermine both South Africa’s competitiveness and the potential of its people.
The review recommended that planning be institutionalised and made a cross-cutting imperative across the state and government sector to enable the country to make the necessary progress towards the attainment of the NDP goals and targets.
“We need to embark on a course of action to get the country back on the developmental path envisaged by the Plan and place more focus on resolving key issues related to the provision of energy, addressing infrastructure backlogs including transport and freight, building state capacity, and addressing the apartheid spatial legacies,” Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, Deputy Chairperson of the Commission said.
Minister in The Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation and Chairperson of the Commission, Maropene Ramokgopa, said that although the country has faced various difficulties, it is crucial that the primary focus remains on achieving the goals of the NDP.
“Despite the challenges experienced, the objectives of eliminating poverty, and reducing unemployment and inequality, which are the overarching goals of the NDP, should and must remain the country’s priority if it is to uplift the conditions of its people,” Ramokgopa said.
The NPC is an independent planning body, comprising a diverse group of experts in various fields, appointed by the President to advise government on the country’s long-term development as contained in the National Development Plan. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 08/02/2023 - 10:01
Ngqeleni Junior Secondary School has been short of 14 teachers since March
Deadline for comments on SA Renewable Energy Masterplan extended
The deadline for submission of public comments on the draft South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM) has been extended to 18 August 2023.
According to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), the SAREM is aimed at driving the industrialisation of the renewable energy value chain.
“Over the past 18 months, the DMRE, working with industry stakeholders, experts, labour, and other government departments, produced the SAREM which articulates a vision, objectives, and an action plan for South Africa to tap into opportunities linked to the booming market for renewable energy and battery storage technologies, both domestically and globally.
“SAREM aims to leverage the rising demand to unlock the industrial and inclusive development of associated renewable energy and battery storage value chains in South Africa,” the department said.
The department published the draft masterplan for comments on Monday, 17 July. The extension follows the deadline of 31 July 2023.
Comments and inputs on the SAREM can be emailed to Mthunzi.Mangqalaza@dmre.gov.za.
Virtual townhall sessions on the SAREM are scheduled for 14 and 15 August 2023. Stakeholders must register on the links below:
“The DMRE invites and encourages stakeholders to review and provide comments on the draft masterplan document to ensure that the contribution of the renewable energy and battery storage value chains is maximised in support of South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP) objectives,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 08/02/2023 - 08:45
Parliament has taken note of media reports alleging that the delay in the timeframes for rubble removal in the fire-gutted buildings will impact the completion deadline of the rebuilding project, set for November 2025. These allegations are entirely unfounded. Parliament emphatically stresses that there are no significant risks of delays in delivering these essential upgrades within the specified timeframes. We are resolute in our commitment to completing the projects as scheduled and providing an improved working environment for Members of Parliament and staff.
While a month's delay in the rubble removal process is not uncommon for projects of this nature, it will not have a material effect on the original set timeframes. Infrastructure development projects often involve unforeseen challenges, necessitating a process of discovery and detailed investigations as project stages unfold. Such factors may potentially impact time, cost, or the final scope of work.
The delay in the rubble removal was caused by serious structural and biological risks, including low oxygen levels and suspicion of the presence of bio-fumes, as well as unexpected stormwater ingress. Ensuring the health and safety of everyone involved in the project is paramount, and these necessary interventions were implemented to address identified risks and prevent potential injuries or fatalities. The responsible project team could not, in good conscience and professional ethics, overlook such significant risks to human life in the pursuit of avoiding media criticism.
However, we assure the public that these regulatory and precautionary measures will not significantly impact our objective of repairing and upgrading the Old Assembly and the New Wing, aligning with stakeholder expectations.
Substantial progress has already been made on the project, including demarcating safe access routes by engineers and safety specialists, asset verification, and the appointment of a contractor for assets, debris, and rubble removal. Additionally, a temporary roof has been constructed over the Old Assembly Building to replace the one destroyed by the fire.
The Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA), as the project implementation agent, has successfully appointed professional teams for the work in both the Old & New Assembly buildings. These teams will collaborate on a cloud-based platform, enabling efficient production of concept designs and final drawings for contractors, thereby shortening construction timeframes. They will also oversee extensive structural rebuilding and analysis, as well as decision-making on reconstruction methodologies. Stakeholder consultations and inter-agency collaboration, including external and independent reviews, will ensure the prudent allocation of funds and optimal outcomes for Parliament as an institution.
It is important to note that the rubble removal contract has been strategically planned to run concurrently with the technical design stages. This approach ensures that the restoration and reconstruction projects can progress efficiently without delays.
In addition to the work on the Old Assembly and New Wing buildings, we have prioritized addressing the immediate workspace needs of our Members of Parliament and staff at the 90 Plein Street building during the rebuilding process. The project, which began on July 17, 2023, is currently approximately 40% complete. Our aim is to ensure that the work of parliamentarians is not adversely affected during this rebuilding phase. The significant progress achieved demonstrates our commitment to expediting our infrastructure delivery program.
To mitigate potential risks, we have implemented stringent monitoring and accountability measures. Transparency and open communication remain integral to our approach. In this regard, we have regularly provided updates to all stakeholders, including political parties in parliament, to keep everyone informed and engaged throughout the process.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
“The spread of HIV in the Western Cape ends with me”. With this simple message, the Western Cape today (1 August 2023) officially launched our multi-sectoral undetectable equals untransmittable (U=U) campaign to promote the benefits of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people living with HIV (PLHIV). The province also welcomed back HIV patients who were diagnosed but did not start treatment as well as patients who started treatment but stopped for various reasons.
ART is not only beneficial to the individual but also their partners, children, community, and the health system at large. ART does not cure HIV infection or remove the virus from your body, but, when taken as prescribed, you can suppress the virus to such an extent that HIV will not be found or detected in your blood. And when it is undetectable, it is also untransmittable, which means you cannot pass it on to your sexual partner.
In the Western Cape, 92% of people living with HIV know their status, but only 59% of them are on ART, and only 21% have had their viral loads (VL) checked in recent months, and 92% of those whose VLs were checked were virologically suppressed. It remains a concern that a relatively high number (273 949) of residents living with HIV in the province are currently not on ART.
Speaking at the launch, Premier Alan Winde said, "the U=U Campaign offers us an opportunity to give the prevention and treatment of HIV the urgent priority needed to make significant inroads in fighting this disease. Our aim is to gives residents living with HIV dignity and hope. This initiative will be driven with the same determination and urgency we used in delivering a world class Covid-19 response. Through this initiative, those in our province living with HIV are given the hope that this disease does not have to determine the course of their entire lives but rather they can grab any opportunity with the comfort of knowing that they are healthy.”
According to Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, the launch of the U=U campaign comes at a crucial time in our province. “Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many of our residents were not able to continue their treatment which placed their health at risk. Despite this, our resources and services can now be reprioritised towards addressing a virus that is now endemic in our communities. It is crucial that we all work together ensure that we maximise access to ARVs and address the stigmas associated with HIV, as any person one knows could be HIV positive. It is up to us to end the spread of HIV in our communities through proper collaboration with all stakeholders.”
“U equals U is not just an ordinary campaign for persons living with HIV. This campaign is also an educational effort aimed at informing communities, inclusive of persons living with HIV, of the benefits of antiretroviral treatment. A person who is infected with HIV and who has an undetectable viral load cannot transmit the virus to a HIV-negative person. This is an innovation in the use of treatment as prevention. The U equals U campaign will promote greater adherence to antiretroviral treatment and result in fewer new HIV infections,” says Neliswa Nkwali, PLHIV Sector Lead.
“I started family medicine in 1993 caring for mostly gay men in Canada. In 1996, when I came to South Africa and life-saving highly active antiretroviral treatment (ART) became available in ‘first world' industrialised countries it was too expensive to roll out globally. After civil society advocacy and taking the South African government to the Constitutional Court, South Africa started providing life-saving ART to people living with HIV (PLHIV). Before the availability of ART, people died young. Now PLHIV can live a full and healthy life and, when they are virally suppressed, they will no longer transmit HIV to their sexual partners. This is the essence of ‘U=U'. From the moment that a person tests HIV-positive, they should start taking ART and know their viral load. When their viral load is undetectable (at four months), they will not transmit HIV (untransmittable) and remain healthy,” says Prof Harry Hausler, Chairperson of Western Cape Civil Society Forum.
Through this campaign, the province is committed to re-engaging people living with HIV who have been lost from care. With the support in place, we are positive that more people can begin ART, adhere to treatment, and ultimately achieve undetectable viral loads. The spread of HIV ends with me and you. Visit your clinic to find out more about starting or continuing your ART treatment.
For more information about the U=U campaign, visit: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/UequalsU
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.
“Farmers and agri-workers do not deserve the vile sentiments expressed in the song "Kill the Farmer, Kill the Boer which was so enthusiastically and irresponsibly sung of over the weekend,” said Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer.
“Our farmers work hard to produce food for our nation and ensure food security” added Minister Meyer.
Minister Meyer continued, “The contribution of the agricultural sector to the Western Cape economy is something that we are incredibly proud of and want to sustain and grow,” adding that the Western Cape agricultural industry increased by 32%, reaching R5.2 billion in 2021.
The Western Cape Government also at its core, believes in redress and the important role that government must play to champion and support aspiring farmers and agri-workers. As part of this redress initiative, the department completed an external land reform study to evaluate the performance of agricultural land reform projects that had been supported by the WCG during the period, 2014 - 2019. The study revealed a 72% success rate from 243 projects – the best result of any province.
Minister Meyer commented: “Through the support of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, Beverley Joseph, South Africa's first black female hops farmer and owner of the 50.8-hectare farm, Zelpy, has developed into a successful commercial hops farmer.
“Klein Goederust Franschhoek Boutique Winery, owned by the child of an agri - worker, Paul Siguqa, serves as another example”, said Meyer. “Located in Franschhoek, Klein Goederust has been transformed from its dilapidated state to a promising boutique wine farm.”
“The Western Cape is also the only agriculture department in South Africa which has a dedicated programme established to enhance the socio-economic conditions of agri -workers and their family members. We do so, through the facilitation of training and development initiatives, to improve their quality of life.
“We are also the only department in the country that hosts an annual agri-worker competition to acknowledge the contribution of our agri-workers to the economy of the Western Cape.”
In the context where we are working so hard to support and build agri-business in the Western Cape and South Africa, the kind of rhetoric displayed over the weekend, severely damages the work to strengthen our social fabric.
“Farm attacks are a reality in South Africa. The increase in farm murders and attacks is a serious concern. It is, for this reason, the Western Cape has worked hard to implement the Provincial Rural Safety Plan, which requires the government to form partnerships with the South African Police Service, Neighbourhood and Farm Watches, the private sector and any other structure that can contribute towards making our rural communities safer.”
Minister Meyer Meyer also highlights that guided by the Western Cape Government's focus areas of jobs, safety and dignity the Western Cape Department of Agriculture has done much to improve the lives of those working in the sector. “Our farmers, agri -workers and families deserve respect and dignity,” concluded Minister Meyer.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Western Cape Agriculture and Rural Development, South Africa.
The City of Cape Town has welcomed heritage approval to proceed with its social housing plans, but the hospital is already occupied
SAPS investigating death of 16-year-old Karabo Chaka
“Millions” owed for the judge’s legal representation
Johannesburg, 1 August 2023 – South Africa’s leading stationery and art materials retailer PNA is excited to announce the launch of the 2023 FUNKY SOCKS DAY campaign, in collaboration with non-profit organisation (NPO) Breadline Africa in a combined bid to make a positive impact on early child development and improve schools in vulnerable communities across …
Two big brands, Jacaranda FM and Access Bank South Africa join hands to elevate businesswomen in South Africa by helping her refine HerPerfectPitch and win over R1 million in business assistance this Women’s month. August 2023, Johannesburg: Jacaranda FM and Access Bank South Africa are calling on all female entrepreneurs who have been in business for …
President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the review report of the National Development Plan (NDP) presented by the National Planning Commission (NPC) on Tuesday, 1 August 2023 at the Union Buildings.
The NPC briefed the President about their findings having reviewed the country's progress against the objectives and targets of the National Development Plan: Vision 2030 (NDP) in the past decade. The NDP, which was drafted by the first Commission in the 2010-2012 period and adopted by all parties represented in Parliament in 2012, is the long-term plan for national development. It provides guidance for all Government policy formulation and implementation.
In this regard, Government uses the Medium-Term Strategic Framework in order to implement the NDP in a structured manner, across Government departments and spheres. It is also used to mobilise all South Africans to take ownership of the country's long-term plan, its objectives, and targets.
One of the main findings made in the Ten-Year Review of the NPC was that the economy was not only failing to grow at the rate required for the objectives of NDP to materialise, but the economy was also not structured to serve the interests of all South Africans, resulting in poverty and inequality remaining extremely high and persistent.
The report further stated that the economic, social, and spatial legacies of apartheid, inappropriate economic policies that prevent redistribution, and the hollowing out of state capacity during the state capture years continue to undermine both South Africa's competitiveness and the potential of its people.
The review recommended that planning be institutionalised and made a cross-cutting imperative across the state and Government sector to enable the country to make the necessary progress towards the attainment of the NDP goals and targets.
“We need to embark on a course of action to get the country back on the developmental path envisaged by the Plan and place more focus on resolving key issues related to the provision of energy, addressing infrastructure backlogs including transport and freight, building state capacity, and addressing the apartheid spatial legacies,” said Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, Deputy Chairperson of the Commission.
“Despite the challenges experienced, the objectives of eliminating poverty, and reducing unemployment and inequality, which are the overarching goals of the NDP, should and must remain the country's priority if it is to uplift the conditions of its people,” said Hon. Maropene Ramokgopa, Minister in The Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation and Chairperson of the Commission.
“The 10 Year Review of the NDP will assist us in identifying the systemic issues that limit the effectiveness of the state and its social partners in making greater progress. We need to be able to plan better, to integrate and coordinate the work of different departments and institutions, and to ensure that we are using our limited resources most effectively.
It is important that the State has the capacity to meet its developmental responsibilities, that it is appropriately structured that has the right people in the right places with the appropriate skills and ethos” said President Ramaphosa.
President Ramaphosa committed his administration's support to the commission and to ensure that the proposals presented are incorporated into Government across all departments and spheres.
The President further underscored the importance of strong leadership and partnership with, labour, civil society, communities and business in effecting the envisaged change.
The NPC is an independent planning body, comprising a diverse group of experts in various fields, appointed by the President to advise Government on the country's long-term development as contained in the National Development Plan.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
Singer-Songwriter Avocals Releases Debut EP, “Ezababini” JEFFREYS BAY: Singer-songwriter Avocals about to release his debut EP, “Ezababini.” The EP is a collection of three original songs that showcase Avocals unique blend of afro soul , afro pop, and gwijosoul. “I’m so excited to share my debut EP with the world,” said Avocals . “These songs …
dtic hosts business editors ahead of BRICS
South Africa intends to bring the African agenda to the fore at the upcoming 15th BRICS Summit, which will take place in Johannesburg from 22 – 24 August.
The Deputy Director-General of Exports at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), Lerato Mataboge, said at the BRICS [Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa] Business Editors’ Breakfast, which was held in Johannesburg on Monday, that the summit is an opportune platform to have a robust conversation on “issues of diversifying exports towards value added trade, increasing productive capacities, increasing entrepreneurial opportunities and the skills dividend”.
All these are areas that bear relevance to the theme of the highly-anticipated summit, which is ‘BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism’.
Mataboge said in addition to infrastructure and industrial development and market integration, attention must be given to accelerating growth and accruing value on the African continent; increasing investment flows to Africa, technology transfer, employment opportunities, and improved incomes and economic inclusion and transformation.
South Africa, as the current chair of BRICS, will be chairing the summit soon after its fruitful participation in the 2nd Russia-Africa Summit, which was held in St. Petersburg last week. The summit came after South Africa successfully held a Friends of BRICS National Security Advisors' Meeting and the BRICS Urbanisation Forum in Durban last week.
The business editors’ session formed part of activities in the road leading to the 15th BRICS Summit. The session was a high-level engagement with the editorial heads of agenda-setting media titles, with the objective of outlining the trade and investment posture of the BRICS Business Council, programme of work of the economic work stream of BRICS in South Africa, as well as the tangible economic opportunities that emerge for South Africa and the African continent.
AfCFTA
In outlining South Africa’s stance on driving the continent’s agenda at the BRICS Summit, Mataboge outlined the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), saying it creates a legal framework that aims to remove barriers and unlock opportunities for trade and investment for local and global businesses, especially in the creation of regional value chains in Africa.
Notably, she said women and youth-owned businesses are poised to benefit from the AfCFTA, with the necessary financial and non-financial support.
“The AfCFTA creates a single market projected to grow to 1.7 billion people and $6.7 trillion in consumer and business spending by 2030. By 2050, the population would have grown to 2.5 billion people, with combined business and consumer spending reaching $16.12 trillion,” Mataboge said.
Highlighting the AfCFTA’s industrialisation opportunities, Mataboge said the AfCFTA Private Sector Engagement Strategy is set to capture value into the continent. She pointed out four sectors including automotive, agriculture and agro-processing, pharmaceuticals and transport and logistics as having high potential for investment, with “potential to meet African demand through local production and potential value as exports to the rest of the world”.
Mataboge said together, these four sectors represent R2.6 billion in goods and services’ imports per annum.
South Africa became a member of BRICS in 2010 and attended its first Summit in 2011. BRICS was established as a forum of like-minded, progressive emerging market and developing countries committed to the need to restructure the global political, economic and financial architecture to be more equitable, balanced and resting on the important pillars of multilateralism and international law.
Over time, BRICS extended its cooperation to three pillars: political and security, economic and financial, and social/people-to-people.
At the initiative of South Africa, BRICS also expanded its reach beyond the BRICS members through the BRICS Outreach and BRICS Plus initiatives. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/31/2023 - 14:49
In the build-up to Women’s Day on 9 August, Joekels Tea, manufacturers of some of South Africa’s most beloved tea brands, is celebrating the many women who are making a positive contribution and inspiring others in South Africa. These women have partnered with Joekels brands – Tetley, Laager, Tea4Kidz, and more – for several years, …
In the first six months of 2023, 231 rhinos were killed in South Africa. These figures represent an eleven percent decrease (or a decline of 28 animals killed for their horn) compared to the same period last year. Between 1 January and 30 June 2023, poaching trends also continued to show a move away from the Kruger National Park to provincial and private reserves.
Forty two rhino were poached in the Kruger National Park and 143 in KwaZulu-Natal Province from January to June 2023. Forty six of the rhino killed were in privately-owned nature reserves and 143 in provincially owned reserves.
Because the demand for rhino horn remains a constant threat to rhino populations collaboration between the law enforcement agencies, including the SAPS, DPCI and the Green Scorpions, Customs officials, the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) and the National Prosecuting Authority, remain key. These efforts are supported by private security.
An important development in strengthening the collaboration between these role players in order to effectively address the organised nature of rhino poaching and wildlife trafficking, is Cabinet's recent approval in May this year of the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking (NISCWT).
“This strategy aims to break the illicit value chain of wildlife trafficking in South Africa and beyond its borders. It represents a commitment by government to direct law enforcement ability and effort and mobilize society support to address the threat wildlife tracking poses to national security and the country's rich biodiversity. Although currently our main focus is rhino, the Strategy also aims to address the illegal trade in, and poaching of, other species that are threatened by trafficking syndicates, like abalone” said Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister, Ms Barbara Creecy.
In the first six months of this year our hard work with both the SAPS and the NPA has led to the conviction of 31 offenders. The majority of sentences were custodial. In Skukuza one suspect found guilty of killing 3 rhino and possession of unlawful arms and ammunition was sentenced to an effective 32 years imprisonment.
In another matter, 3 accused, found driving in Kruger National Park, with 5 rhino horns hidden in the vehicle, a hunting rifle with a silencer, ammunition and knives, were convicted for the killing of 3 rhinos in the park, possession of unlawful firearms and ammunition, possession of dangerous weapons and trespassing. Accused 1 and 2 were sentenced to 34 years imprisonment, whilst accused 3 was sentenced to 39 years imprisonment.
In Limpopo, an accused individual was sentenced on a charge of murder, killing of 2 rhinos, unlicenced firearm and ammunition to an effective sentence of 24 years imprisonment.
In the Eastern Cape, 6 accused were convicted on charges of conspiracy to commit rhino poaching (notably no rhinos were killed) and the possession of unlicenced firearm and ammunition and effectively sentenced to imprisonment ranging from 16 to 20 years.
Yesterday was World Ranger Day and so it is important today that we honour the bravery and dedication of the men and women who run our ranger services and who are on the front line of the battle against wildlife poaching.
The role of rangers in supporting the prosecution and sentencing of those arrested for wildlife crimes committed in the Kruger cannot be underestimated. There is strong collaboration between the SAPS forensic teams and SANParks ECI when attending crime scenes to ensure the collection of vital evidence to link suspects to the crime scenes. It is also done to ensure minimum contamination of the crime scene.
During the meeting held earlier this year with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)'s Environmental Working Group we discussed the challenge relating to the opposing of bail due to the fact that rhino poaching is not listed as a Scheduled Offence. Research is being conducted to propose, if viable, legislative amendments to address this challenge.
Unfortunately, rhino poachers have continued to target the Hluhluwe/iMfolozi game reserve in KwaZulu-Natal where Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, supported by the Department and iSimangaliso Wetland Park, continues to implement a number of measures to combat rhino poaching.
Among these has been the establishment of a Tactical Operations Joint Control Centre, which now facilitates the SAPS deployments to Hluhluwe/iMfolozi Park (HiP). The Department made available R40 million for the repair and replacement of the boundary fence around the Hluhluwe/iMfolozi game reserve which is regularly breached and through which wild animals can escape to nearby communities.
The National Prosecuting Authority has also designated a prosecutor to facilitate rhino cases in KZN and cases have been prioritised and identified to be expedited through the court processes.
In response to a range of studies that point out collusion between our ranger services and criminal syndicates, the Kruger National Park has developed a holistic Ranger Services – Integrity Management Plan.
This plan aims to improve ranger morale and resilience to corruption by providing services that enhance ranger health and well-being, provide training and counselling, offer a range of financial management services and debt management. The Ranger Service has also enlisted the Association of Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA) Foundation to provide specialised Financial Literacy Training for all field rangers. This was attended by 334 employees.
SANParks has also established an Integrity Testing System (a Polygraph policy) for new recruits and to support anti-corruption investigations.
To ensure safe passage of tourists en route to the park, SANParks has joined a task team championed by the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, in collaboration with the traditional leaders of adjoining communities, the SAPS and Private Security companies to ensure constant patrols along the identified hotspots en route to the Kruger National Park.
South Africa's national parks are situated in areas of extreme poverty and are surrounded by many vulnerable communities. In order to ensure that communities on the outskirts of parks benefit from tourism and thus help to keep tourists safe, SANParks has held a number of stakeholder engagements with entrepreneurs in the past four years with regard to the provision of goods and services to our national parks. In addition, through Working for Water, Ecosystems and Wetlands programmes, we have created 33 222 Work opportunities for communities living on the outskirts of our national parks.
** Members of the public can report any suspicious activities around wildlife to its environmental crime hotline which is 0800 205 005 or the SAPS number 10111
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
Nurturing workplace agility in the digital era In wake of learnings over the past three years post-March 2020 and in today’s rapidly evolving business environment, companies should be embracing agility to thrive. This is especially prevalent with the increased focus on technological advancements, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation. “Workplace agility refers to …
Unions claim that Limpopo politicians are interfering in the recruitment of the chief financial officer
On August 1, from 12:45 a.m. local time (7:45 p.m. JST) for approximately 150 minutes, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, during his visit to South Africa, held a foreign ministers' meeting and a working lunch with Honourable Dr. Naledi PANDOR, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa. The overview is as follows.
1. Bilateral Relations
2. Cooperation in the International Arena and Regional Affairs
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.
Petrol, diesel prices to increase from Wednesday
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has announced that the price of all grades of petrol and diesel will increase from Wednesday this week.
The price of illuminating paraffin is also expected to rise with the only decrease to be implemented on the price of LP gas.
Adjustments to the prices will be as follows:
The department explained the reasons for the price adjustments.
“The average Brent Crude oil price increased from $75.10 US Dollars [USD] to $79.75 USD during the period under review. The average international product prices of petrol, diesel and Illuminating paraffin followed the increasing trend of crude oil prices during the period under review. These led to higher contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by 63.59 c/l, 99.09. c/l and 98.71c/l, respectively. However, LP Gas decreased due to lower prices of Propane and Butane.
“The Rand appreciated on average, against the US Dollar [from R18.68 to R18.26 per USD] during the period under review when compared to the previous one. This led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by 27.64 c/l, 27.36 c/l and 27.10 c/l, respectively.
“The cumulative slate balance on petrol and Diesel as at the end of June 2023 had a positive balance of is R2.69 million. Therefore, there is no slate levy applicable in the petrol and diesel price structure for August 2023,” the DMRE said. - SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 08/01/2023 - 08:52
In line with Section 12 of the Public Service Act as amended, North West Acting Premier Nono Maloyi and MEC for Social Development Lazarus Mokgosi and Social Development Head of Department Relebohile Mafokane have reached a mutual agreement for the latter's temporary transfer to the Office of the Premier.
This is a lateral transfer which is aimed at stabilising the Department of Social Development. Mr Mofokane's terms and conditions of employment remain the same and his transfer does not mean any wrongdoing on his part. The transfer is with effect from 02 August 2023.
Acting Premier Maloyi and MEC Mokgosi have subsequently appointed Dr Fezile Ngqobe to act as Head of the Department of Social Development until the post is filled.
MEC Mokgosi would like to thank HoD Mafokane for his understanding and cooperation in reaching this decision.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of North West Office of the Premier, Republic of South Africa.