Treasury Defends SRD Grant Regulations
The Institute of Economic Justice is challenging regulations for the Social Relief of Distress grant which it says are unconstitutional.
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Government anchors economic growth strategy on four key areas
Government anchors economic growth strategy on four key areas
Over the medium term, government will anchor its economic growth strategy on four key areas in order to support inclusive growth.
This as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced in the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) speech that economic growth projections have been revised down from 1.3% to 1.1%.
Godongwana delivered the MTBPS speech in Parliament on Wednesday.
“[Our] fiscal strategy sets to out to achieve the fiscal sustainability needed to support inclusive economic growth.
“It carefully weighs competing demands, making the necessary trade-offs between what is most urgent and what must wait given the fiscal constraints. The strategy also supports critical social services and addresses the significant fiscal and economic risks that lie ahead,” he said.
The four key pillars are:
- Maintaining macroeconomic stability
- Implementing structural reforms
- Building state capability
- Supporting growth-enhancing public infrastructure investment.
“Pillar one is about a stable, transparent and predictable macroeconomic framework that creates a conducive environment for businesses and households to save, spend, invest and grow.
“The National Treasury has the responsibility for oversight and implementation of the macroeconomic policy framework. Anchoring inflation expectations is important for our macroeconomic policy framework, and this what the Reserve Bank is responsible for.
“To strengthen this framework, we continue to work on assessing the suitability of monetary policy targets, and to improve the levers of macroeconomic policy coordination,” Minister Godongwana said.
The second pillar is aimed at the implementation of structural reforms and accelerating Operation Vulindlela.
“These will continue to strengthen the economy to be more productive and internationally competitive, accelerate inclusive economic growth and foster much-needed job creation.
“The first phase of Operation Vulindlela provides tangible evidence that structural reforms can reduce economic bottlenecks. It also demonstrates that government can collaborate effectively with business for the collective good,” he said.
In terms of supporting growth-enhancing infrastructure, Godongwana said this is about “effective infrastructure investment, to boost economic activity and enable higher growth over the medium term”.
“In this regard, we are implementing reforms that will create conditions to attract greater private sector participation. The reforms include mobilising significant private sector financing and technical expertise to augment the limited public sector capacity and capability.
“We are amending the PPP [Public Private Partnership] regulations to simplify requirements for undertaking these projects. The amended Treasury Regulation 16 will be published before the end of November for implementation in 2025/26. The Municipal PPP Regulations 309 will be finalised by June next year.
“We are establishing dedicated capacity to plan, prepare and design programmes that will generate a credible pipeline of projects that can be taken to the market,” he said.
Pillar four, according to the Minister, seeks to “build a capable state that delivers a reasonable and reliable standard of public service that will foster the necessary environment for more growth and jobs”.
“For this reason, additional funding is proposed for Parliament and the Office of the Chief Justice, mostly to enhance operational capacity in the running of these important institutions. With the Local Government Elections due in 2026, funds have been set for the Independent Electoral Commission to conduct smooth elections.
“Additional funding for the South African Revenue Service is proposed. This is to help the organisation build on its successes by driving programmes to enhance the efficiency of revenue collection, whilst enhancing compliance and facilitating legitimate trade,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 10/30/2024 - 14:41
344 views
Government to launch next phase of Operation Vulindlela
Government to launch next phase of Operation Vulindlela
Government is expected to launch the next phase of Operation Vulindlela, which is aimed at accelerating the implementation of structural reforms.
This is according to the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) released by National Treasury on Wednesday.
Treasury explained that the country’s economic growth prospects are closely tied to Operation Vulindlela and structural reforms to “improve competitiveness and productivity and boost investment”.
“In its first phase, this initiative implemented 35 reform actions in five network industries, including reducing power cuts, improving the performance of the logistics system, lowering data costs, improving water supply and enabling the country to attract critical skills.
“The next phase of reforms will support higher medium-term growth, which is required to significantly expand employment. New initiatives aim to reverse local government decline, tackle spatial inequality and advance digital government to improve large-scale service delivery,” National Treasury said.
Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery.
Government has set its focus on Eskom’s restructuring as a priority and to establish a bustling energy market, with adequate supply for a growing economy.
“The cumulative effects of reforms include improved power station performance and no ‘load shedding’ since 26 March 2024. The Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill was signed into law in August of this year.
“This, together with the creation of the National Transmission Company of South Africa, which began operating on 1 July 2024, is establishing rules and procedures for a competitive electricity market.
“The ongoing Energy Action Plan has boosted efforts to restore energy availability and procure new generation. By end-August 2024, project registrations with South Africa’s energy regulator exceeded 8500 megawatts,” the MTBPS stated.
The critical sector of freight rail logistics is also receiving attention.
“Transport reforms that open the freight rail network to private operators will reduce inefficiencies and costs, helping firms offer lower prices and boosting economic growth. To this end, the Economic Regulation of Transport Bill – enabling private-sector use of the rail network – was signed into law in June 2024.
“Transnet freight volumes grew from 149.5 million tonnes at the end of the previous financial year to approximately 151.7 million tonnes by end-March 2024, supported by the implementation of a recovery plan from October 2023 and reversing a years-long decline. Port cargo handled has stabilised relative to 2023 levels,” National Treasury stated.
Treasury emphasised that reforms in the water sector are critical for economic growth and water security.
“The National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency Bill, signed on 27 August 2024, creates an independent agency to oversee bulk water resources. The Water Services Amendment Bill, allowing for intervention in failing municipalities, has received public comment and will soon be submitted to Cabinet for approval,” Treasury said.
Reforms in that sector target supply and infrastructure challenges.
“Water sector reforms being prioritised by Operation Vulindlela include independent regulation, strengthening local water services by licensing water service providers, legal proceedings on non-compliance by municipalities and trading services reforms.
“Trading services reforms refer to governance, institutional, management and financial reforms to improve essential services, enabled by a new performance-based grant. The National Treasury is also working closely with the Water Partnerships Office to identify opportunities for private sector participation, such as non-revenue water projects. Non-revenue water refers to the revenue lost from leaking water infrastructure.
Elsewhere, the visa system has been reformed by the Department of Home Affairs to attract skills and boost tourism while the rollout of 5G infrastructure has tapered data costs, expanded connectivity and improved access to network services. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 10/30/2024 - 14:46
418 views
No Lifeline for Teachers as Godongwana Warns of “Difficult Trade-Offs”
“Budget cuts kill education” protesters tell Minister of Finance
Reforms to attract infrastructure investment
Reforms to attract infrastructure investment
Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has announced reforms that will create conditions to attract greater infrastructure investment by private sector participation.
“Collectively, the infrastructure reforms will strengthen planning, appraisal, contracting, financing, and monitoring and evaluation. The outcome will be faster delivery of infrastructure that supports economic growth, the expansion of access to basic services and boosting job creation,” Godongwana said on Wednesday.
Tabling the 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) in Parliament, the Minister said one of the strategies aimed at lifting the economy to higher and towards a more inclusive growth path is supporting growth enhancing infrastructure.
“Pillar three is about effective infrastructure investment, to boost economic activity and enable higher growth over the medium term. In this regard, we are implementing reforms that will create conditions to attract greater private sector participation,” Godongwana said.
The reforms include:
• Mobilising significant private sector financing and technical expertise to augment the limited public sector capacity and capability.
• We are amending the PPP regulations to simplify requirements for undertaking these projects.
• The amended Treasury Regulation 16 will be published before the end of November for implementation in 2025/26. The Municipal PPP Regulations 309 will be finalised by June next year.
“We are establishing dedicated capacity to plan, prepare and design programmes that will generate a credible pipeline of projects that can be taken to the market.
“The Department of Water and Sanitation’s Water Partnerships Office has two priority programmes for non-revenue water and recycling wastewater that require private investments.
“Similarly, the Department of Transport, Transnet and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa are finalising a list of priority projects that will be issued to the market in 2025/26,” the Minister said.
The resolution of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project has unlocked a project pipeline to the value of R85 billion for the non-toll network over the next three years.
The Minister said government is improving the capital budgeting process.
The Budget Facility for Infrastructure is being reconfigured into a centralized gateway for all large infrastructure projects that require fiscal support to advance.
From 2025, the facility will have a continuous evaluation process instead of one window per annum. The National Treasury will, in January 2025, publish a circular to guide the submission of proposals.
“Lastly, government is making a concerted effort to increase the pool of funders to diversify public infrastructure financing through new mechanisms and instruments,” the Minister said.
These include build-operate-transfer (BOT) structures and other concessions.
“We are developing a blended finance risk-sharing platform that includes a credit guarantee vehicle that will help de-risk public-sector projects while reducing government’s contingent liabilities. Fiscal support is proposed for the projects evaluated in the 2024 BFI window,” the Minister said.
This includes, but is not limited to: two hospital projects, including a district hospital in Limpopo; landside capacity expansions at the Cape Town Container Terminal; capacity upgrades on the rail network from Watloo to Gqeberha; rehabilitation of water infrastructure in eThekwini; and Student housing accommodation at six higher education institutions.
“A request for proposals will be issued this year for funders who are interested in supporting these projects, as well as projects for urban rail revitalisation, disaster relief and metropolitan trading services. Funding for these will be separated from broader sovereign borrowing and be accounted for separately,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 10/30/2024 - 14:49
123 views
United Kingdom (UK) Visa Services in South Africa Are Now Available in PE/GQ Through VFS Global
VFS Global (www.VFSGlobal.com) are proud to announce that residents of South Africa, travelling to the UK can now book appointments to submit their visa applications through VFS Global's new state-of-the-art Visa Application Centres located in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth and Pretoria.
Effective 22 October 2024, customers applying for a UK visa will be directed to VFS Global to book an appointment to complete their visa application. Customers will also have the option to choose additional services designed to make the application process easier.
Commenting on the launch of the new Centres, Mr. Alok Singhal, Head- Sub-Saharan Africa, VFS Global, said, “We are excited to embark on this new journey with UK Visas and Immigration here in South Africa. We have enjoyed a long-standing partnership with UK Visas and Immigration since 2003 and look forward to now bringing travellers from South Africa our best-in-class services.”
UK visa customers can now choose from a range of optional services offered by VFS Global to provide enhanced comfort and convenience. These include document upload assistance, Prime Time for application submission outside of business hours, SMS notifications, document checking service, and courier return of the passport once a decision has been made.
Customers can also submit their UK visa applications from the comfort and safety of their home, office or any other preferred location with our On Demand Mobile Visa service. VFS Global's Keep My Passport While Applying service allows customers to keep their passports once their application is submitted and biometrics have been enrolled. Customer will only need to re-submit their passport when a decision is reached.
The services can be booked in advance on https://apo-opa.co/4f4Yw1G or at the Visa Application Centre at the time of the appointment. These services are completely optional and have no bearing on the processing timeline and outcomes of visa applications.
As a partner to the UK Visas and Immigration since 2003, VFS Global offered visa services in 58 countries before the new contract and has now been awarded the contract to provide UK visa services in 142 countries worldwide. In the African region, VFS Global will provide Visa Application Centres for the UK in 31 countries, from October 2024.
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UK Visa Application Centres in South Africa Cape Town: 2 Long Street, 9th floor, nr 2 on Long Street, 8001 Port Elizabeth: Greyville House, 3rd Floor, Greyville House Building, Corner of Ring Road, Caper Road & Greyville Road, Greenacres Durban: Glass House, 309 Umhlanga Rocks Drive, Umhlanga Johannesburg: Rivonia Village, 3rd, Cnr Rivonia Boulevard and Mutual Road, Sandton, 2128 Pretoria: The Podium at Menlyn - 4th Floor, 43 Ingersol Rd, Lynnwood Glen, 0081 |
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Website: https://apo-opa.co/4f4Yw1G Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri, except public holidays) Application submission: 9 AM to 4 PM (Mon to Fri, except public holidays) Passport collection: 12 PM to 3 PM (Mon to Fri, except public holidays) Primetime submission and collection: 8 AM to 9 AM & 4 PM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri, except public holidays) |
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VFS Global.
Media Contact:
George Cherian
georgec@vfsglobal.com
communications@vfsglobal.com
About VFS Global:
As the world's leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.
With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 69 client governments. Operating over 3,400 Application Centres in 153 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 297 million applications since 2001.
Headquartered in Zurich and majority owned through investment funds managed by Blackstone Inc, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.
Mister Sweet Workers Shut down Labour Department
They claim that an inspector left a Mister Sweet factory with “a lot of packets of sweets”
100 days in office: Labour Minister focuses on job creation, improved services
100 days in office: Labour Minister focuses on job creation, improved services
Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth says her first 100 days in office signify not an "endpoint" but rather the beginning of numerous initiatives aimed at better serving clients and the country as a whole.
In addition, Meth said her department was consumed by fulfilling the mandate of job creation and protection of vulnerable workers.
The Minister was speaking at the Cape Town Labour Centre, where she was unpacking the first 100 days in office following the establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU).
“We are seized with the mammoth task of changing the trajectory of our economy into one that resonates with the resolve of the GNU to nudge actions that will advance the three priorities.”
These, she said, include driving inclusive economic growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical and developmental State.
Meth said they hit the ground running with the Deputy Ministers getting acquainted with the department, and strengthening cooperation with organised labour, organised business, social partners and civil society.
The leaders have also been participating in parliamentary processes, and ensuring accountability to the Portfolio Committee, Cabinet and Cluster Committee meetings.
The last three months have also been characterised by the Strategic Plan 2025/2030 of the department, which sets out the GNU strategic priorities and principles espoused by the statement of intent of the GNU.
Inspections and enforcement activities
Meth took the time to delve into the role of inspection and enforcement, saying these were critical to safeguarding workers' rights, ensuring compliance with labour laws and upholding fair practices.
According to the Minister, the department has jointly conducted more successful inspections, leading to 81 arrests of employers and undocumented immigrants.
The high-impact inspections and compliance raids targeted the hospitality, road and freight, textile, car manufacturing, and farming sectors, as these have high non-compliance with labour laws.
“During these inspections, we addressed non-standard employment practices that render workers vulnerable. We contributed to job preservation by ensuring that employed individuals enjoy the protection of their rights, which in turn enhances productivity and economic growth,” Meth said.
She announced that 17 662 national inspections were conducted during this period.
Out of the 17 662 inspections, 12 195 workplaces were compliant, while 5 494 workplaces were found to be non-compliant, with enforcement notices issued as a result.
TERS budget
Meth said during this period, there was an increase in the budget for the Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme (TERS), from R400 million to R2.4 billion for the current financial year.
“This significant boost aims to shelter companies in distress and prevent employee layoffs amid unstable economic conditions.”
Meth was of the view that the increase in the TERS budget was a proactive response to volatile economic trends that threaten the livelihoods of impoverished workers and the sustainability of businesses.
“Our goal is to preserve jobs and support companies facing financial difficulties. Furthermore, increasing the scheme's capacity aims to reduce the risk of further retrenchments and support economic stability.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, R65 billion was made available for TERS.
Meanwhile, Meth said Phase 3 of the “Follow the Money” project started in October 2024.
The project aims to verify the payment of R65 billion to 215 companies under the COVID-19 relief scheme.
To date, Meth said the project has recovered R1.2 billion since inception.
“Initially, the aim was to verify 50% of the amount paid, and now we want to verify the entire amount. Consequently, 27 audit firms have been appointed, and Phase 3 commenced in October 2024."
Ninety-six fraud cases were identified, 40 were presented to the court, and all were finalised. The highest conviction was 20 years of direct imprisonment. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 10/29/2024 - 15:17
162 views
Disability Grant Applicant Collapses: SASSA Responds to Our Story
This is a response to the article published in GroundUp News on 23 October 2024 : Disability Grant applicant collapses in long queue at SASSA office SASSA Western Cape requested a right of reply as they were never contacted for official comment. Furthermore, the article fails to include essential context. In the article, it is …
Deputy Minister calls on South African thought leaders to drive solutions
Deputy Minister calls on South African thought leaders to drive solutions
Social Development Deputy Minister Ganief Hendricks has urged thought leaders and stakeholders to move beyond posing questions and instead contribute viable solutions towards fortifying South Africa’s social protection systems.
The Deputy Minister was speaking at the official launch of the Social Security Review Volume 2 held at the HSRC Head Office in Cape Town on Monday.
Held under the theme “Social Security in the Time of COVID-19,” the gathering in Cape Town brought together influential figures from government, academia, research, and civil society to reflect on the pandemic’s impact on social protection and discuss innovative ways to address the ongoing challenges.
The Deputy Minister acknowledged the collective efforts behind the publication, which is the result of collaboration among the Department of Social Development, the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), and independent experts and researchers.
Applauding their dedication, the Minister emphasised that the Social Security Review serves as a platform for independent critique and the examination of government interventions on crucial policy matters.
“Your work is essential for building an informed society that can hold policy decisions to account and ensure that they benefit every South African,” the Deputy Minister noted, urging them to continue their contributions.
Since its inaugural release in February 2022, the Social Security Review has become a critical resource, providing insights into the gaps exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The pandemic brought social protection to the forefront globally,” the Deputy Minister said, highlighting the world’s largest mobilisation of social protection measures seen to date.
However, he pointed out several gaps in South Africa’s own systems, including sparse coverage and data management for vulnerable groups, particularly unemployed adults, seasonal workers, and informal sector employees. These issues, he added, affect women most profoundly, as they are predominantly represented in insecure, informal work.
Hendricks underscored the urgency of addressing these gaps, given the clear benefits that an inclusive, comprehensive social protection system can offer. He argued that the experiences from COVID-19 made a compelling case for more lofty policies, including the Universal Basic Income Grant.
“Now is the time to begin serious national discussions on overdue policy choices, and this publication is essential as we work toward a resilient social security system,” he said, linking this to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s strategic focus on poverty reduction and managing the cost of living.
The Deputy Minister noted that evidence-based decision-making must guide social security reform, especially as South Africa looks towards its National Consultative Dialogue scheduled for December 16, where a united vision for the country’s social protection framework will be on the agenda.
“The capacity of social protection to reduce inequality and manage poverty is foundational to our nation’s stability,” he said, underscoring the important role of social security in promoting social cohesion and renewing the social contract with South Africans.
Highlighting the tangible impact of social assistance programmes, the Deputy Minister lauded South Africa’s achievements in poverty reduction since the dawn of democracy.
The country currently provides income support to over 18 million vulnerable individuals, including children, older persons, and people with disabilities. This was supplemented by the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, which began as a temporary measure in 2020 to aid over 8.5 million unemployed adults affected by the pandemic.
Hendricks said this network of social assistance acts as a lifeline in times of crisis and that “one cannot imagine the depths of poverty our people might have faced without these protections”.
The Deputy Minister shared that climate change and the economic aftershocks of COVID-19 are prompting a re-evaluation of South Africa’s social protection framework.
“We must build a modern, comprehensive, and shock-responsive system,” he said, adding that social protection reform is not just policy, it’s a constitutional mandate.
South Africa’s Constitution enshrines democratic values, social justice, human rights, and a commitment to quality of life for all citizens. Hendricks expressed optimism that continued collaboration with experts and academics will drive progress in these areas.
Hendricks extended his appreciation to the authors, editors, and reviewers whose contributions made the Social Security Review Volume 2 possible.
Their work, he said, will stimulate robust dialogue and help shape policies that support a more equitable future for South Africa. Officially launching the publication, he declared it a must-read for legislators, scholars, and all invested in South Africa’s prosperity. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 10/29/2024 - 10:59
26 views
Home Affairs Chairperson Reminds People to Contribute to Electoral Reform Panel Call for Public Submissions
The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, Mr Mosa Chabane, has called on the public, political parties and prospective independent candidates to effectively contribute by making public comments to the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel by 31 October 2024.
The panel has extended its deadline to 31 October following a request by the committee to enable extensive public participation in its process to assess electoral systems and recommend an appropriate system for the country. “Public participation is enshrined in the Constitution because of the need for informed decision-making. By making submissions, South Africans will be contributing to shaping South Africa's constitutional trajectory going forward,” Mr Chabane said.
The Electoral Reform Consultation Panel is a critical body that was established to examine the current electoral system and many others across the world, as per section 23 (9) (b) of the Electoral Amendment Act of 2023.
It is important therefore, according to Mr Chabane, that as the panel continues its work it is supported effectively. “South Africans cannot abdicate the responsibility to jointly build and develop our constitutional democracy. We owe it to ourselves, gallant freedom fighters that fought for our liberation and future generations to make meaningful contribution to this new phase in our democratic dispensation,” Mr Chabane concluded.
The submissions can send by email to: ERCP@dha.gov.za or hand delivered to House 1, Ministry of Home Affairs, 909 Arcadia Street, Hatfield, Pretoria. Alternatively, the submissions can be delivered by hand to the nearest Home Affairs Office.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Job loss births passionate farmer
Job loss births passionate farmer
By Sihle Manda
After losing her job as a sales representative at a furniture store, Collien Khawula from the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal was forced to re-discover her passion for farming.
Despite many challenges since then, it is a decision she has yet to regret.
Khawula is the director of Tumies Enterprise, a mixed farm in Malangeni, in Umdoni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.
The business farms in poultry, vegetables, as well as a thriving nursery. It produces onion, carrot, cabbage, spinach, lettuce, green pepper and beetroot.
“I started in 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown. I lost my job and decided to start something that didn’t require a lot of capital, as long as you have a bit of land and seeds. I wanted to be independent and not depend on others to survive,” she said.
The journey, however, has not been without its challenges. These ranged from self-doubt to a lack of financial resources.
Tumies Enterprise also had to contend with water shortages in the area.
“We need a lot of water to farm but we are struggling. It doesn’t help that we don’t have water tankers or pumps,” she said.
Despite these challenges, she is grateful for the ongoing technical assistance and training she often receives from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
The Department often assists the business with ploughing implements, fencing, seeds and fertilisers.
In early 2024, she received R50 000 during an entrepreneur development programme pitching competition by Raiz Corp and Illovo Sugar, Africa's largest sugar producer.
“The money has come in handy, especially for office equipment. If you want to be professional, your paperwork needs to be in order.”
Khawula added that she has plans to apply for government support to grow her business. The business, which employs four people, supplies its produce to local restaurants and markets in the area.
She explained that she has prospects to grow her business but is unable to due to lack of space. While she has two four-hectare farms in two of her rural homes, she is unable to utilise them because it is too far from the central business district and she does not have her own transport. Instead, she farms on various smaller plots to produce her vegetables.
“My wish is to move to a bigger farm in one space. I don’t have land of my own close to the CBD so, I rely on the generosity of people to offers me parcels of land for farming,” she said.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Fri, 10/25/2024 - 10:35
153 views
Gauteng Education concerned about alleged foodborne illness at Emmangweni Primary
Gauteng Education concerned about alleged foodborne illness at Emmangweni Primary
The Gauteng Department of Education says it is deeply concerned about the increasing number of foodborne illness cases reported in schools around the province recently.
On Wednesday, the department was alerted to an incident involving an alleged foodborne illness that broke out at Emmangweni Primary School in Tembisa, affecting 16 learners.
According to the department, preliminary reports indicate that after the school break at 11:00, a group of 16 learners (aged between 11 and 15) reported to the office experiencing dizziness and vomiting from a suspected foodborne illness.
“Upon investigation, it was discovered that they had consumed atchaar, which they bought from other learners. Two Grade 7 learners from the school reportedly admitted to selling the atchaar on behalf of a woman who is a Community Work Programme (CWP) member. Emergency services responded swiftly and transported all 16 affected learners to different medical facilities,” the GDE said.
The department said parents were promptly informed about the situation and accompanied their children to the respective medical facilities.
Ten learners were stabilised and discharged after a few hours.
Three learners remained at Tembisa Hospital and another three at Esangweni Clinic, where they received the necessary medical attention and were later discharged.
“Accordingly, investigations into this incident are underway. The safety of all learners remains a top priority, as the department works closely with health authorities to address the situation.
“We are deeply troubled by the increasing number of foodborne illness cases reported at our schools. The health and safety of our learners is our highest priority. We are working closely with authorities to fully investigate the cause of this incident.
"We wish the affected learners a speedy recovery, and we will provide the necessary psycho-social support to the families and school community at large,” Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 10/24/2024 - 09:41
435 views
Enhancing polio detection with advanced sequencing technology
The African region, declared free of indigenous wild poliovirus in August 2020, faces an urgent threat: the intense transmission of type 2 variant poliovirus (cVDPV2). This year alone, 290 poliovirus detections have been reported in 23 African countries.
As countries ramp up vaccination efforts to protect children against the virus, one of the most critical components of the response is early and accurate detection. To enhance the effort, the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa (WHO AFRO), together with the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC) and the Gates Foundation, is focusing on equipping and training laboratories across Africa with an innovative advanced sanger sequencing technology, a crucial method in investigating new regions in the poliovirus genome.
The poliovirus has a genome that is 7.5 kilobases long (a kilobase, or kb, is a unit of measurement used to describe the length of DNA). This genome has one main part that is used to create four proteins, named VP1 to VP4. The VP1 protein is important for how the virus attaches to cells and has been used to identify and track the spread of poliovirus.
In 2024, WHO AFRO initiated targeted training on Advanced Sanger Sequencing training aimed at diversifying the diagnostic windows for polioviruses which will eventually reduce turn-around-time of poliovirus detection. These trainings are essential to equip lab personnel with the skills to operate advanced sequencing technologies and provide timely results for public health decision-makers.
Sequencing allows laboratories to pinpoint genetic changes in poliovirus strains, providing critical data for tracking transmission pathways and understanding viral evolution. The technology offers a level of precision that helps identify mutations in real-time, making it possible to detect emerging threats swiftly. This technique has hitherto been limited to VP1 region of the gene but after this training laboratories will be able to use the entire five prime untranslated region and the remaining VP4/2 of the poliovirus gene.
“Expanding our sequencing window to the other regions of the poliovirus, alongside the VP1 region, enhanced our ability to classify cases more accurately - bringing us one step closer to polio eradication”, says Irene Turyahabwe, participant from Uganda.
“Advanced sequencing will not only open different diagnostic windows for efficient and rapid diagnosis but will also provide much needed evidence for the success of specific vaccination campaigns essential for ongoing polio eradication efforts. The data gathered through this technology informs decision-making, ensuring that the right public health interventions are deployed in time to prevent further spread of the virus” says Dr Jude Kfutwah, coordinator of the Regional Polio Laboratory Network at the WHO Regional Office for Africa.
South Africa hosted the first round of the training, where laboratory personnel received hands-on experience in Advanced Sanger Sequencing techniques. The training, under the umbrella of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), is part of a broader initiative to ensure that countries have the necessary capacity to detect polioviruses quickly and accurately, without delays that could hinder response efforts.
Following South Africa's success, WHO plans to expand the training to key countries across the continent. Algeria, Central African Republic and Madagascar are among the next in line, where national laboratories will benefit from this knowledge transfer. This regional expansion ensures that multiple countries are better prepared to contribute to Africa's polio eradication journey.
In addition, WHO is supporting 16 polio laboratories in the African region who are providing environmental surveillance support, testing for poliovirus in stool and wastewater samples to track geographic patterns of spread.
With laboratories across Africa enhancing their capacity to process samples quickly, there is an added layer of regional cooperation that strengthens the entire surveillance network. This collaborative spirit is vital in eradicating polio once and for all.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.
Concourt Showdown on Copyright Bill
The court will hear two applications relating to copyright and the rights of blind people to convert works into accessible formats
Minister Says Social Grant Flaws Found by Students Will Be Investigated Within 30 Days
Stellenbosch teenaged students present their findings to Parliament
Deputy President to convene second meeting of the GNU clearing house mechanism
Deputy President to convene second meeting of the GNU clearing house mechanism
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will convene the second meeting of the Government of National Unity (GNU) clearing house mechanism on Thursday, 24 October 2024.
The Deputy President chaired the first virtual meeting last week, which the Presidency said got off to a good start.
READ | Inaugural meeting of the GNU clearing house gets off to a good start
The GNU clearing house mechanism is a platform created by President Cyril Ramaphosa to resolve policy disagreements and disputes within the GNU.
All 10 political parties that are signatories to the GNU – African National Congress, Democratic Alliance, Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, and Rise Mzansi have been invited.
The Office of the Deputy President serves as the Secretariat of the GNU clearing house mechanism.
Issues to be discussed include the clearing house mechanism's terms of reference and an update on the preparations for the G20 Summit.
The leaders will also touch on the aspects of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act (BELA Act), update on the preparations for the National Dialogue, and discuss challenges at the provincial and local government level in relation to coalition governments.
The mechanism will not override Cabinet decisions, as the Executive remains the final decision-making body in government. However, it will ensure that all GNU signatories develop a common understanding of critical policy matters.
In addition to the mechanism, the Presidency said it was resolved to establish a technical committee to serve as a processing channel for matters of divergence within the GNU.
This means that this mechanism will establish the Political Leaders’ Forum of parties who signed the statement of intent. – SAnews.gov.za
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Celebrating a life of service and leadership
Celebrating a life of service and leadership
President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised the late former Finance Minister Tito Mboweni for being a man of great stature who never lost his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
The President delivered a poignant eulogy at the Special Official Funeral Category 2 in honour of Mboweni at the Nkowankowa Stadium in Limpopo on Saturday.
Mboweni, remembered for his immense contributions to South Africa's economic and political landscape, was honoured by dignitaries, colleagues, and citizens alike for his unwavering service to the country and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
“Governor 8 could relate to people from all walks of life. He was an empathetic man. He valued character over pedigree. And he was no cynic. He looked for the good in each person and usually found it,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa noted that while Mboweni was respected by leading economists, business titans, and labour leaders, he remained deeply grounded.
“Yet despite his stature and profile, he never lost the common touch. He had a gift to connect to people. He understood them and he had a way to make people feel special and made them have a sense that they mattered,” the President said.
Mboweni who passed away at the age of 65 last week, served as South Africa’s Minister of Labour in the first democratically elected Cabinet from 1994 to 1999.
Following that, he served as the South African Reserve Bank Governor (SARB) from 1999 to 2009.
His final official position in government was as the Minister of Finance in President Ramaphosa’s administration from 2018 to 2021. He resigned from Parliament on 1 February 2022.
A life well lived
The President praised the former Minister of Finance as one of South Africa's most illustrious sons.
"Our hearts are heavy because of this great loss, but we are also here to celebrate a life well led—a life that is replete with many lessons," President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa recounted the many facets of Mboweni’s remarkable career, from being affectionately called "Comrade Tito" and "Governor 8" to his roles as South Africa's first black Governor of the SARB and later Minister of Finance.
"He was larger than life because he led such a big life and touched the lives of many people,” he said.
The President recalled the pivotal moment when he asked Mboweni to return to the public service after he had left, to which Mboweni eventually agreed.
“He had already left public service when I knocked on his door asking him if he would return to public service as Minister of Finance. I just said Cde Tito your country needs you to do another tour of service.
“He agonised about giving up the material value he was building for himself and his family. But after a while he came through for the people of South Africa and agreed to serve as Minister of Finance. Tito was a true patriot,” the President said.
Mboweni’s contribution as Minister of Finance was marked by his dedication to fiscal discipline and economic transformation, steering the National Treasury through a challenging period as the country emerged from state capture and faced a global pandemic.
“Tito taught us that public service is noble and necessary; that one can serve with integrity and hold true to the important values, like faith and family. He strongly believed that it was important to give back to the community and country in which one lived.
“He recognised that serving others enriched the servant’s soul. To me he was the shining star that shined brightest in a maze of a dark period in the life of our country we called state capture,” he said.
The President also touched on Mboweni's lighter side, recalling his infamous brown shoes and self-deprecating humour, which belied a career of monumental achievements.
"For Tito, when you hold public office, perception matters," said Ramaphosa, reflecting on the lessons Mboweni taught about humility, leadership, and being of the people.
“Tito Mboweni wasn’t just incorruptible. He wasn’t just an avowed enemy of corruption throughout his life in public office.
“In time we will look back at those social media posts of Tito defending his infamous brown shoes that had seen better days.
“We may then read what was perhaps the deeper, intended meaning: That when you hold public office, when you are entrusted with leadership, you must be of the people. Not standing above them, not looking down on them. For Tito, when you hold public office, perception matters,” the President said.
READ | Dr Tito Mboweni remembered as a trailblazer
The President also spoke fondly of their shared passion for trout fly fishing and Mboweni’s lasting legacy as a true servant leader.
“Cde Tito and I shared a deep passion for trout fly fishing and would spend time talking about the skill of casting a line to catch a brown trout and compare that to prudent macro-economic policy management.
“I kept fearing that on Budget Day we would bring a dead trout fish to the National Assembly and talk about it,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sat, 10/19/2024 - 15:44
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Dr Tito Mboweni remembered as a trailblazer
Dr Tito Mboweni remembered as a trailblazer
President Cyril Ramaphosa has lauded the late former Minister of Finance Tito Mboweni as a man who understood the assignment, describing him as a trailblazer who has left an enduring legacy in South Africa's public and economic spheres.
The President delivered the eulogy at Mboweni’s Special Official Funeral Category 2 at the Nkowankowa stadium in Limpopo on Saturday.
Mboweni, who was the first Labour Minister in democratic South Africa passed away last week following a short illness at the age of 65.
He was fondly known by names like Comrade Tito, Uncle Tito, erstwhile National Breadwinner, unpaid impresario for Lucky Star and The Duke of Magoebaskloof.
Acknowledging the deep pain of the loss, the President expressed the nation's shared grief with the Mboweni family stating “we are all feeling the pain together with you."
The President spoke movingly about Mboweni’s enduring legacy, describing him as a servant leader whose contributions to South Africa spanned his roles as a freedom fighter, businessman, central banker, and politician.
“Comrade Tito, you understood the assignment. As we bid you farewell my brother, my comrade, my fellow fly fisherman, your legacy is of a successful transformation from a freedom fighter to a businessman, central banker and politician. You were a true servant leader, admired and loved by the people. You delivered on what was required of you,” the President said.
As South Africa's first black Reserve Bank Governor and former Minister of Finance, Mboweni's contributions to economic transformation and fiscal discipline were transformative, President Ramaphosa noted.
“He oversaw the modernisation of the Reserve Bank, introduced inflation targeting, and convened the bank’s first monetary policy committee meetings. He championed economic transformation, just as he championed fiscal discipline and evidence-based policymaking.
“To keep the citizenry abreast on economic policy matters, he introduced a televised monetary policy statement. Later, as Minister of Finance, he undertook one of the most difficult of roles. It requires someone of mettle. It requires an ability to take difficult decisions and to withstand extreme pressure,” the President said.
Mboweni's legacy also extended to his groundbreaking work as the first Minister of Labour, where he played a key role in passing labour laws that restored dignity to workers. The president acknowledged that these policies fundamentally transformed the labour relations landscape in South Africa.
President Ramaphosa fondly recalled Mboweni's use of a potted Aloe Ferox plant during his budget speeches, a symbol of South Africa’s resilience in difficult times.
“We remember how he would dramatically bring a potted Aloe Ferox plant to his Budget speeches to illustrate his approach to fiscal discipline. Through the Aloe Ferox he sought to illustrate that like our country, the Aloe Ferox survives and thrives when times are tough.
“We continue to admire how he always sought to demystify matters of the economy for our citizens. He insisted that government must communicate with the people on how the economic decisions we take impact their lives.”
As Finance Minister, Mboweni faced numerous challenges but remained steadfast in his commitment to pragmatic fiscal management while advancing economic reforms through initiatives like Operation Vulindlela.
Connection with the youth
Mboweni’s remarkable connection with the younger generation was also highlighted, with the President pointing to his popularity on social media and the release of a chart-topping rap song named after him.
“Who, but Uncle Tito, could have a chart-topping rap song titled with his name? Who, but the Duke of Magoebaskloof, could share tips with 1.5 million followers on the best curry powder to cook a chicken with and impart economic education at the same time?” President Ramaphosa remarked.
The President noted that the younger generation, some of whom were his social media followers, “have a delightful phrase: understanding the assignment.”
“Loosely deciphered it means knowing what must be done and doing it well,” he said.
READ | Reflecting on Dr Tito Mboweni's life
Serving with dedication
The President underscored Mboweni’s dedication to integrity and service, saying that his reputation remained untarnished despite holding high office.
“You acquitted yourself with dignity and with honour in the ANC [African National Congress], in government and beyond. You depart this world with that dignity, that honour and that reputation intact.
“You did not disgrace or betray your movement or the people of this country. You were a credit and an asset to both. This is the most we can hope for as leaders. This is the highest we should aspire to.
“Like Tito, we should strive to be true servant leaders. We should each aspire to do everything that our country asks of us. Fare well, Mkonto. Rest in eternal peace,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sat, 10/19/2024 - 15:05
83 views