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Public urged to report crimes related to elections

Location: News

Public urged to report crimes related to elections

Government has urged members of the public to report any crime related to elections to their nearest police station or Electoral Commission (IEC) offices.

“A protocol has been established between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise all election-related crimes,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said on Sunday in Pretoria.

Addressing a media briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, the Minister said prosecutors stand ready to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political party and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officials as well as forcing anyone to vote.

“Individuals who use social media and electronic platforms to send threatening messages, incite violence, or cause harm to others will be charged. When an individual creates a video or share a post to the public and where the post contains words, speech or conduct that may encourage others to commit public violence, the aforementioned post will make one guilty of the offence of inciting public violence and police will not hesitate to track the person down and hold you accountable,” Modise said.

The Minister appealed to political and community leaders to exercise caution when speaking on public platforms.

“Do not make inflammatory or threatening statements as you will be breaking the law and may also encourage others to carry out criminal activities.

“We urge the public to exercise caution before sharing the information with others. Ensure that you double-check the accuracy of the information and be aware of the unintended consequences of your actions. Members of the public should report any inflammatory statements to law enforcement agencies,” the Minister said at the briefing held in Pretoria.

She warned the public against sharing false, unverified information, rumours, or threats online or in person as that can have serious consequences.

It can incite violence, confuse voters, and undermine the democratic process.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) has activated provincial disaster management teams to identify risks and put mitigation measures in place for any disasters that may occur pre, during and post the elections.

“The NDMC is working closely with the South African Weather Service to monitor the situation, early warning messages will be issued when necessary. On the day of the elections, these teams will be deployed for 24 hours to monitor the situation,” the Minister said.

Collection of Identity Documents

To assist voters with the process of application for new Identity Documents and Temporary Identity Certificates and the collection of these documents, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has opened its offices from 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays from 06 April to 25 May 2024.

“In addition, Home Affairs will open its offices on voting day. Mobile offices are also scheduled to be opened in remote areas to assist with the application and collection processes. The department will engage with councillors and other community leaders to decide on the dates, times and venues of the operation of mobile offices.

“Citizens can also use the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which is available on the DHA website to book appointments to collect their Smart ID Cards and Green barcoded ID books. We encourage clients who have applied for identification documents and have received their SMS notifications, to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents.”

Modise encourage all eligible voters to go out in their numbers to the different voting stations on 29 May 2024 to cast their votes.

The 2024 General Elections are believed to be the most contested in the history of this country.

“Overall, 70 political parties are contesting these elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52. In total, there are over 14, 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures. Ensuring the safety and security of all voters and officials are of paramount importance,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 04/28/2024 - 11:49

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Read morePublic urged to report crimes related to elections

Mjwara’s departure bittersweet, says Minister Nzimande

Location: News

Mjwara's departure bittersweet, says Minister Nzimande

Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has described Dr Phil Mjwara’s farewell as bittersweet for both the department and the country’s science community.
 
The Department of Science and Technology (DSI) hosted a farewell for Mjwara, the longest-serving DG in the country, recently.
 
After serving for 18 years as DG, Mjwara has been praised for his significant contributions to the department and the country.
 
Mjwara, whose last day in office was on 28 March, was praised for his visionary leadership and dedication to a broader perspective.
 
“That’s one thing I enjoyed about you is you always contextualise and look at the bigger picture. But at the same time being specific about what needs to be done,” Nzimande told the attendees at the farewell. 
 
According to the Minister, Mjwara has played a crucial role in implementing key policies and institutional interventions with his strategic insights.
 
“I want to thank you for teaching me to be a science policy person. You know those who come from what is called a Marxist intellectual tradition. They usually are very arrogant about science. But thank you very much for teaching me many aspects of science that I didn’t know about,” he told Mjwara. 
 
Mjwara holds a BSc, MSc, and PhD from the University of the Witwatersrand. His academic career includes serving as a Professor of Science and Technology Policy at the University of Pretoria, and physics lectureships at the Universities of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, and Fort Hare.
 
Nzimande also saluted Mjwara for the outstanding work and the role he played in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa. 
 
He was also lauded for outstanding projects he was involved in such as hydrogen strategy, vaccine manufacturing innovations, indigenous knowledge systems projects and the National Policy Data Observatory. 
 
“Being in the department has been a learning curve for me and your presence has truly anchored me as a science policy person,” Nzimande added. 
 
The Minister also congratulated Mjwara because, for the first time in South Africa, the country has developed the capacity for the local production of vaccines. 
 
He gifted the retiree with a shield and a spear as a symbol for the fights he fought and conquered as a civil servant. 
 
“I want to say something to the staff of DSI that indeed we have very big shoes to fill.” 
 
Mjwara also took the podium to thank the guests for honouring him with their presence. He paid tribute to the Ministers and Special Advisors who have worked with him and his team over the years. 
 
“I appreciate that Ministers provided us with roles and gave us the space to do what needed to be done. The role was very clear.”
 
When he began his journey at DSI, he expressed his desire to create a machine that would make everyone proud.
 
“I am proud that we built this machinery. It will take somebody very skilful to [try to] dismantle this. I want to say here that I wish them all the best in trying to do it. Because it's been designed with all the checks and balances to make sure that those who have the ambitions to destroy this will not get into the entire DSI family I'm very proud of,” he said, an utterance which was met with cheers. 
 
He expressed his sincere gratitude to his staff from the Pretoria and Cape Town offices for all the support they provided to him and his family. 
 
Mjwara gave a special dedication to his assistants. “I am grateful that they all stayed with me because I can be very difficult.” 
 
He paid tribute to his wife, his three adult children, and his newly wedded daughter-in-law. “I know that I haven’t always been present and I apologise for not being there all the time but I hope now you know where I was,” he quipped. 
 
He said that he has not taken their support and sacrifice for granted.
  
During the event, Bongiwe, Mjwara’s daughter, shared some personal anecdotes and paid tribute to her father's character and achievements.
 
“With everything, he ran the household very systematically and had great organisational skills with everything. It is amazing to see everything that our father has done and how he has remained as a person. He's been to all these places, met all these people but continues to remain humble.” 
 
She described her dad as a humorous man with a charming smile.
 
“I just hope that in your projects going forward you’ll continue to use him but also let him enjoy life, enjoy his legacy and his family. You have set such a beautiful standard for excellence, respect, and humility and we are proud of you.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 04/26/2024 - 13:37

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Read moreMjwara’s departure bittersweet, says Minister Nzimande

CoGTA Minister to hand over Ikageng Light Industrial Park in N West 

Location: News

CoGTA Minister to hand over Ikageng Light Industrial Park in N West 

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng, will hand over the new Ikageng Light Industrial Park in the JB Marks Local Municipality in Potchefstroom, North West, on Friday. 

North West Acting Premier Nono Maloyi and JB Marks Local Municipality Executive Mayor Gaba Thithiba Ka Qhele will join the Minister. 

According to the department, the project handover symbolises the District Development Model (DDM) in action, where all spheres of government work together for the delivery of services and uplifting communities.

 
“The handover will also form part of the North West government-led Thuntsha Lerole accelerated service delivery programme, which is being rolled out to mobilise communities to be part of the solution in addressing service delivery challenges confronting the province,” the department said in a statement. 

The department said the scope of work undertaken by the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA), an entity of the Department of Cooperative Governance, displays a comprehensive approach to community development. 

This includes the refurbishment of existing facilities to establish six separate automobile workshops, the demolition of dilapidated structures, and the construction of modern workshops for artisans.

The project, totalling R53 696 250, also included the creation of office spaces to accommodate various occupants, including government and non-profit organisations, and establishing retail workshops catering to local artisans such as hair salons.

With the installation of essential amenities like ablution facilities and external infrastructure such as water, sewer, roads, landscaping, and security systems, the industrial park promises to ensure local economic development, stimulate township-based light industrialisation and create employment streams.

READ | Industrial parks to transform economy

The project, the department said, has created 19 jobs offering opportunities for women, men, and youth alike. 

In addition, a small and medium-sized enterprise (SMME) has benefitted from the initiative, contributing to the growth and sustainability of local businesses.

The industrial park will also provide working space for business owners renting the space and provide various services from automotive mechanics, panel beaters, carpenters, upholsterers, welders to hair salons for community members.

Following the project handover, Nkadimeng will join the Acting Premier at the Thuntsha Lerole community engagement session. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 11:15

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Pavilion Home Affairs office hailed as a game-changer

Location: News

Pavilion Home Affairs office hailed as a game-changer

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube says the opening of a Home Affairs office at the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Westville, Durban, is a game-changer in how government provides services to the citizens.

Dube-Ncube joined Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, to officially open the new Home Affairs office at the Pavilion Shopping Centre as part of the department’s ongoing efforts to make services easily accessible to the public.

The new office will offer application and collections services for IDs and passports. Clients will have the convenience of applying for these services as they do their shopping at the centre.

Dube-Ncube said the initiative aims to revolutionise citizen services, emphasising convenience, dignity, and efficiency.

“The office will bring services closer to where our people shop, bank, eat, stay, play and work. For us, first and foremost, this office will bring dignity to our people,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said the strategic location of the office at the shopping centre is expected to alleviate the burden of long queues experienced at other Home Affairs offices in uMngeni, Pinetown and the Durban city centre.

“By integrating government services into everyday spaces that people already frequent, the initiative aims to streamline processes and enhance the overall experience for citizens. Moreover, the presence of a government office within a bustling shopping centre is poised to redefine the public's perception of and interaction with government services. 

“To have a government office in a shopping centre will change how people perceive and interact with government and it will bring efficiency and agility. By embracing innovation and adapting to contemporary needs, the initiative seeks to foster a culture of responsiveness and accessibility within the public sector,” Dube-Ncube said.

WATCH | Opening of the Pavilion Shopping Centre Home Affairs office

Home Affairs extended working hours.

Motsoaledi reiterated that the department wants to ensure that it brings services to the people where they are.

“We promised Parliament that we are going to expand the platforms where South Africans receive Home Affairs services. One of those platforms is to expand to malls,” Motsoaledi said.

The opening of Home Affairs office follows the launch of offices at Menlyn Shopping Centre at Pretoria East in March 2023, and Cresta in April 2024.

READ | Home Affairs opens three offices this Saturday

In his 2023 Budget Vote Speech, Motsoaledi announced that his department wants to create multiple platforms to assist people with applications for their IDs, passports, and other essential documents. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 12:03

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NPA ‘a long way down the road’ on its vital rebuild

Location: News

NPA 'a long way down the road' on its vital rebuild

National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Shamila Batohi, has stated that despite unrelenting pressure and the devastation of State capture, the turnaround of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has been remarkable.

Batohi was speaking during a media roundtable on the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) priorities and strategic initiatives held at the entity’s headquarters in Pretoria.

Batohi – who was appointed as NDPP in 2019 – said the rebuild of what was then a “fractured” organisation, truly began when a full leadership was appointed.

“In March of 2021 we had, finally, the full leadership in place. We could really start properly, as a full leadership team, thinking about this rebuilding process. What we have achieved in that just over three years, is nothing short of remarkable.

“The NPA now is a well run constitutional entity. We have a solid strategy. There are many incredible strategic initiatives… that put the NPA firmly on track to deliver to the people of this country,” she said.

Reflecting on her tenure so far at the entity, Batohi said she came in believing that State capture cases in particular would have moved faster.

“When I came back from the International Criminal Court [where I was a senior legal advisor to the Prosecutor], I had a sense of the challenge and I thought, 'how difficult is it going to be to get one really big corruption case that’s going to swing sentiment around very quickly'?. I was really quite wrong about that.

“In so far as State capture related cases… I thought we would have been further down the line. For everything else in the NPA, I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved and how far we’ve come since the new leadership came in,” she said.

Stated objectives

Batohi looked back on some of the objectives that she set when she took office, including:

  • Addressing the leadership crisis of the NPA.
  • Conducting a review of high profile cases relating to the decision to prosecute or not.
  • Reviewing the structure of the NPA.
  • Securing sufficient budget for the NPA and expanding its partnerships.
  • Managing cases related to State capture.
  • Creating the Investigative Directorate (ID).
  • Stakeholder management.
  • Strengthening staff morale and empowerment.
  • Instilling the value support of the Independence, Professionalism, Accountability and Credibility pillars.

“It’s not been easy. We’ve been, in the past five years, really hard at work under a lot of pressure. The pressure… in the past five years, has been unrelenting, mainly with regard to State capture. But in the middle of all of this, we’ve been doing incredible work to turn this ship around.

“We’ve stabilised the leadership of the NPA. [The NPA executive]… are the people of the highest standards of integrity, who will do only what the Constitution and the rule of law demands. We have increased staff capacity and capability. We’ve partnered with civil society and the private sector to secure specialist skills that we need in certain very high profile and complex corruption related matters.

“We’ve established the office of ethics and accountability in the NPA. We’ve developed a very forward looking organised crime strategy. We have really focused a lot on building the NPA into a strong entity once more. We’ve come a long way to do that,” she said.

Batohi said since the objectives were set out in 2019, the global landscape has changed dramatically with “deeply troubling” geopolitical tensions, outbreak of conflict and a world impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are working in an environment where… it’s a complex political environment. We have a country where we have load shedding, the poorest and most vulnerable are without basic amenities. We have a country that is wracked by the highest levels of various types of crimes.

“It is in this context… that, as the NPA and as a country, we can’t give up hope. We have to… keep fighting the good fight. And that we have to, as the NPA, being a vital Constitutional entity that’ll contribute to the rebuilding of this country… [we have to] keep fighting the best we can and [the best] we know,” Batohi said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 12:57

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Read moreNPA ‘a long way down the road’ on its vital rebuild

SA reacts to discovery of mass graves at Nasser Hospital in Gaza

Location: News

SA reacts to discovery of mass graves at Nasser Hospital in Gaza

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has reacted to the recent discovery of a mass grave containing the remains of 202 Palestinian civilians at Nasser Hospital in Gaza. 

“South Africa is appalled by the recent grim discovery of a mass grave containing the remains of 202 Palestinian civilians at Nasser Hospital in Gaza," the department said in a statement.

This follows the reported discovery of mass graves at Al-Shifa Hospital on Sunday, 21 April 2024. 

According to reports, Palestinian officials claim they exhumed over 200 bodies at Nasser, some with their hands tied.

“These grim findings call for immediate and comprehensive investigations to ensure justice and accountability,” the department’s statement read. 

The department is of the view that Israel continues to disregard the rulings by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and United Nations (UN) resolutions amid the unrelenting bombardment of Gaza. 

South Africa approached the ICJ in March, which granted the country's urgent request for further provisional measures to prevent Israel from causing irreparable harm to the rights invoked by South Africa under the 1948 Genocide Convention in respect of the ongoing siege of Gaza.

“The court was unambiguous when it agreed with South Africa’s assertion that the situation in Gaza had deteriorated significantly since the court’s order of 26 January 2024 as a result of Israel’s failure and responsibility to comply with the court’s rulings,” the statement read. 

The department said it concurs with the UN’s Special Rapporteur on the right to health, Tlaleng Mofokeng, who has aptly stated that Israel’s war in Gaza has from the start been a “war on the right to health” and has “obliterated” the Palestinian territory’s health system.

“The lack of accountability by Israel is increasingly clear,” the department added.

DIRCO further agreed with the UN’s Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese.

Albanese recently highlighted that the continuation of Israel’s impunity and exceptionalism is no longer viable, especially in light of the binding UN Security Council Resolution 2728, which called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

“In this respect, we call on the international community to act to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure accountability for the victims and their families," Albanese said.

Meanwhile, the department said it noted that the evidence of mass killings of civilians points to the perpetration of war crimes and crimes against humanity. 

These include murder and extermination, and genocide, as defined in Articles 6, 7 and 8 of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, as well as violations of the 1949 Geneva Conventions, specifically the Fourth Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War, as well as Customary International Humanitarian Law.

The department also cited International Humanitarian Law, which prohibits attacks on civilians and non-combatants, underlining the need to protect human life during times of war.

“The International Criminal Court (ICC) has jurisdiction over the situation in Palestine. We, therefore, call on the Office of the Prosecutor of the ICC to urgently lead a thorough and impartial investigation into a matter that complies with international legal standards, to establish the facts and to bring those responsible to justice.

“It is the collective duty of the international community to ensure that atrocities of this nature are duly prosecuted in terms of the Rome Statute and the Geneva Conventions.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 10:19

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Leagas Delaney Group South Africa celebrates growth with new Cape Town office

Location: MyPR

CAPE TOWN, South Africa – April 19, 2024: Independent, global communications agency, Leagas Delaney Group South Africa (LDSA), continues to build on its successes in Johannesburg, with the opening of a new office in Cape Town. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the agency as it continues to solidify its presence on the continent. …

Read moreLeagas Delaney Group South Africa celebrates growth with new Cape Town office

A Strong Will To Succeed Took Nozipho From Clerk To Head Of Operations

Location: MyPR

A strong determination to succeed, a mentoring nature and her grounding in humility are the attributes that have contributed to Nozipho Ngobese’s rise from junior clerk to Head of Operations during three decades at Ithala SOC Limited. Despite a passion to become a chartered accountant after matriculating at Bhekuzulu College in Nongoma, Ngobese’s parents could …

Read moreA Strong Will To Succeed Took Nozipho From Clerk To Head Of Operations

Dignity for those in need: Gauteng launches mobile shower facilities for homeless people

Location: News

Dignity for those in need: Gauteng launches mobile shower facilities for homeless people

The Gauteng Department of Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment has unveiled mobile shower services for homeless people in the province.

MEC Mbali Hlophe said the services are aimed at restoring dignity for people who find themselves homeless in the province.

“It’s about giving them warm food and a shower. It’s also about ensuring that our social workers have access to them and they are able to direct them to the broader services that we have. That’s about family reunification, which is really an ideal one because we want to make sure that we are able to unify families.

“But where we can’t, we are able to place them within our shelters where they are provided with skills to make sure that they are able to take care of themselves and to be sustainably out of the streets,” Hlophe said.

According to the department, the mobile shower service is in line with “Pillar 1 of the Gauteng City Region Strategy on Street Adult Homelessness, which is advocacy, awareness, and prevention of crisis and early intervention”.

“The service, which will go out to locations daily, will provide access to bathrooms, ablution facilities, laundry services and linking the homeless with other services such as access to shelters and social work interventions,” the department said in a statement.

The mobile wash services will go to areas where homeless people can be found.

“The wash trailer and office will be towed by a vehicle to the identified homeless hot spots. The proposed locations for the service are parks, open areas, under bridges, and on streets where the homeless community sometimes reside.

“The mobile services have separated showers and ablution facilities and an office. The wash trailer, which is 6m long, with an estimated weight of 2 800 kilograms, has three showers and three toilets, and the estimated office weight is 1 800kg,” the department said.

According to the department, the launch is “an expansion to an already existing package of assistance to the homeless” in the province.

This includes homeless shelters in regions; provision of daily meals for the homeless; social work services; link to skills development; substance abuse rehabilitation, and family reunification.

New lease on life

At shelters, homeless people are afforded an opportunity to learn skills, including basic computer skills, construction skills, including brick laying and agricultural skills.

A resident at a homeless shelter, Michael Rasebokoa, said the opportunities he gained at the shelter have given him the restart he needed.

Rasebokoa holds a Business Administration qualification but found himself homeless when he lost the job he had.

However, through a non-profit organisation at the shelter, he was linked to a new job opportunity.

“I am grateful for the opportunities that the Gauteng Department of Social Development has afforded me.

“The NPOs that are funded by the department has made it possible for me to secure a job. I am currently working as a Financial Advisor in Sandton,” Rasebokoa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 10:35

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Government activities for the week 22 – 26 April 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 22 – 26 April 2024

On Monday, 22 April, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, will officially open a new Home Affairs office at The Pavilion Shopping Centre in Westville, KwaZulu-Natal.

On Tuesday, 23 April, President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the Inaugural Worker Share Ownership Conference at the Sandton Convention Centre.

On Tuesday, 23 April, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Makhotso Sotyu, will launch Community Forestry Agreements in Butterworth, Eastern Cape.

On Wednesday, 24 April, President Cyril Ramaphosa will officiate the 20 Years celebration of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and launch the Phase V of the programme in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape.

On Thursday, 25 April, a Webinar on the National Treasury two-pot system will be held via Zoom at 11am.

On Thursday, 25 April, the International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister, Alvin Botes, will host his Swedish counterpart for a bilateral meeting.

On Friday, 26 April, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake a working visit to the United States of America. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Matona
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:31

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Minister welcomes sentencing of Home Affairs employee for fraud

Location: News

Minister welcomes sentencing of Home Affairs employee for fraud

Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has welcomed the sentencing of a Home Affairs employee for issuing birth certificates to foreigners for cash. 

According to the department, Amos Ngwenyama was sentenced to eight and six years imprisonment on two counts of fraud and corruption at the Giyani Commercial Court in Limpopo, on Friday. The sentences will run concurrently.

Ngwenyama was based at the Home Affairs office in Malamulele. 

“Mr Ngwenyama was arrested following a joint investigation by the Home Affairs Counter Corruption Unit and the Hawks in Limpopo in 2023 for issuing birth certificates to undeserving foreign nationals in exchange for money.” 

Motsoaledi reiterated his warning to officials involved in fraud and corruption that “their days are numbered”. 

“We have no tolerance for any acts of corruption and malfeasance. Public members expect government officials to uphold the highest ethical and moral standards. They are also expected to be honest in serving the public and the state,” Motsoaledi said.  – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 08:58

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W Cape State vets at the centre of efforts to increase agricultural exports

Location: News

W Cape State vets at the centre of efforts to increase agricultural exports

Western Cape State veterinarians have been lauded for the province’s efforts to increase agricultural exports. 

According to the Western Cape MEC for Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, the province is responsible for 55% of South Africa’s primary agricultural exports, with nearly 50% being livestock or livestock products. 

The MEC was addressing 1 500 delegates from 48 different countries attending the 39th World Veterinary Association Congress, which is currently underway at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town.

Meyer said the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Veterinary Services recently launched its innovative online electronic Export Certificate Office System (ECOS). 

“ECOS provides the customer with a 24-hour export facilitation service, reducing the export certificate application process from days to minutes. The platform streamlines the export process and ensures compliance with international standards. Exports contribute to foreign exchange earnings and a 5% increase in exports will lead to approximately 22 000 new jobs in the agriculture sector in the Western Cape,” he explained. 

He also announced that the Western Cape Government’s (WCG) R30 million revamp of the Provincial Veterinary Laboratory facilities has been completed and that the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) and International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 17025 certificated laboratory re-opened on 1 April 2024.

Expressing his concern about the shortage of veterinarians, Meyer said the international norm for veterinary services is 200 to 400 veterinarians per million of the population. In comparison, South Africa has around 60 to 70 veterinarians per million. 

“This represents only 25% of our requirements. Therefore, this is a great concern, which puts the country’s food security and human health at risk. A fully staffed veterinary service is a critical enabler to a thriving agriculture sector in the province. The agriculture sector creates jobs and drives economic growth.”

Commenting further on conditions under which live animals are transported at sea, Meyer stated that the unacceptable conditions in which live animals are transported highlight the need to consider placing a ban on the transport of live animals and the importance of biosecurity. 

“This year, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture will prioritise veterinary services and biosecurity. Organisations such as the World Veterinary Association and the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) will play a key role in strengthening our response to the challenges facing the profession and our sector. We must defend animal welfare and advance biosecurity,” Meyer said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 04/18/2024 - 09:05

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IEC issues 14 889 certificates to candidates contesting elections

Location: News

IEC issues 14 889 certificates to candidates contesting elections

The Electoral Commission (IEC) has issued certificates to the 14 889 candidates, who will contest 887 seats in the forthcoming elections.

“Nominations of candidates closed on 8 March 2024 and following processes of verification and objections, 70 political parties, and 11 independent candidates were published as final contestants in these elections,” IEC Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sy Mamabolo said on Tuesday in Centurion.

South Africans will once again get an opportunity to exercise their right to vote in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE2024) taking place on 29 May 2024.

“Fifteen political parties are contesting all tiers of the elections, which means the compensatory seats in the National Assembly, the nine province-to-national elections, as well as the nine provincial legislatures. A total of 31 political parties will contest the national elections for the first time,” Mamabolo said.

An analysis of the list of candidates reflects that 58.14% (or 8 658) are male, with female candidates at 41. 86% or (6 234).

“Candidates in the age category 40 - 49 are the majority at 4 361, followed by the 3 708 in the 50 - 59 age category and 3 406 in the 30 - 39 age group. Candidates who are over 60 stand at 1 924 and those between the ages of 18 and 29 are 1 493.

“Notably, there are 15 candidates, who at 18 years, are also first-time voters. Of the 15, nine are female and six are male. These candidates are spread across eight political parties. There are 17 candidates who are aged 80 years and more. The majority (16) are male candidates, standing for four political parties, leaving only one female candidate in the age category,” the CEO said.

On gender representation, 15 political parties have a female representation of 50% and above. Seven parties achieved a 40% and a further 14 parties have a 30% female representation on their lists.

“Over 95% percent of logistical supplies for Election Day are already at hand. We are in the process of distributing 1 873 tonnes of material between our different warehousing and storage facilities across the country,” Mamabolo said.

The IEC has reminded voters that they may only vote at a voting station where they are registered.

Voters, who will inevitably be away from their voting districts on election day, 29 May 2024, may give a Section 24A notice of their intention to vote at another identified voting station by no later than 17 May 2024.

“Applications for special votes, for the purposes of home visits and voting station visits, opened on 15 April 2024 and will close on 3 May 2024. Home visits are intended for those voters who are unable to travel to voting stations, while special votes at voting stations are for everyone who is unable to be at the voting station on Election Day. Special voting will be conducted on the two days preceding Election Day, on 27 and 28 May 2024,” the CEO said.

Special votes may be accessed using one of the following modalities:

  • Using the secured online application form found at www.elections.org.za.
  • By SMSing your identity number to 32249 (R1.00 per SMS) for voting station visit only.
  • By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1B form for a voting station special vote.
  • By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1A form for a home visit special vote. Forms can also be hand-delivered, but someone else can deliver a form on behalf of a voter.

Special votes will also be administered at South Africa’s diplomatic missions abroad to service 58 000 registered voters. These voters will be provided for at the diplomatic missions of the republic. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 04/18/2024 - 09:33

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Read moreIEC issues 14 889 certificates to candidates contesting elections

W Cape receives record number of Grade 1 and 8 applications for 2025

Location: News

W Cape receives record number of Grade 1 and 8 applications for 2025

The Western Cape provincial government has announced that it has received 102 680 applications for Grade 1 and 8 for 2025.

This is an increase of 5 936 on last year’s on-time window, during which applications for 96 744 Grade 1 and 8 learners were received. 

The admissions window closed on Friday, 12 April 2024, at midnight.

“We thank the parents who put in the effort to apply on time, helping us to plan for a place for their child in a school next year,” the Western Cape Education Department said on Wednesday. 

After the deadline, all late applications will be considered only after those received on time.

Parents will still be able to capture late applications on the online system until 12 May 2024, but they will be flagged as late applications. 

The provincial department said parents of students in Grades 1 and 8 who are planning to relocate to the Western Cape, but have missed the online application deadline of 12 May 2024, or have not applied for any other reason, should get in touch with their district office immediately for assistance. 

“We urge parents not to wait until the last minute to apply,” the department added. 

The window for Grade R applications and transfer requests for Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 to 11 will run from 1 to 16 August 2024. 

Meanwhile, now that on-time applications have closed, schools will have a little over a month to consider all the applications they have received.

Parents are reminded that they do not need to drop off their certified hard copies at this stage. They will only need to do so once they have received an offer from a school and accepted the offer as their final choice of school.

“Parents will start seeing the outcomes of their applications online from 30 May 2024, and we will remind them of this as the date approaches. The date has been shifted by a day from 29 May 2024 to accommodate the public holiday for the general election.” 

Parents must then accept or decline successful offers before 14 June 2024, and the department encouraged them to do so as quickly as possible.

“It is important for parents to confirm their choice of school speedily when they have received offers from multiple schools. These parents are essentially ‘double parking’ on the system, stopping schools from offering these places to other applicants until they make their choice.”

If a parent has not confirmed their choice by 14 June 2024, the system will automatically confirm their top-ranked school that has made an offer.

All other offers will then be removed, so that those places can be offered to other learners.

“Parents who do not receive an offer on 30 May 2024 should not be disheartened as places always open up as parents confirm their final choices. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to place every learner whose parents applied on time as quickly as possible.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 04/18/2024 - 09:44

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Thabong Service Centre, a shining example of excellence

Location: News

Thabong Service Centre, a shining example of excellence

by Simphiwe Mngomezulu

Thusong Service Centre Managers and Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) provincial teams from all corners of the country gathered on Tuesday in the Matjhabeng Local Municipality to learn best practices from the Thabong Service Centre.

The benchmarking programme was hosted by the National Inter-Sectoral Steering Committee (NISSC) which is the national coordination structure of the Thusong Service Centre Programme, chaired by the GCIS at national level.

The vibrant intergovernmental programme took place in the heart of the township at the Boitumelo Junction Mall.

During the event, the Thabong Service Centre was acknowledged as one of the most optimally and efficiently performing Thusong Service Centres in the country. It is also the second urban Thusong Centre to be located within a mall like the centre located at Maponya Mall in Gauteng. 

The one-stop-shop provides information and integrated government services from various departments, including the Office of the Premier, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), Social Development, Labour and Employment, GCIS and the local Councilor.

Lejweleputswa District Municipality Executive Mayor, Veronica Ntakumbana, attended the event and spoke about the importance of bringing services closer to the people.

According to Boitumelo Junction Mall marketing manager, Mampoi Mahasa, the centre services a low-income community that cannot afford to frequently travel to town to access government services.

“The availability of SASSA and the clinic in the centre has been of great help to the community,” said Mampoi.

The Thusong Service Centre programme was first launched in 1999. The Free State province currently has five operational Thusong Service Centers.

The NISSC: Thusong Service Centre programme will run over three days.

On Wednesday, the structure will host a meeting at Mangaung Municipality to provide feedback from the last meeting held in April 2023 and further outline new projects.

On 18 April 2024, the NISSC will host another integrated services outreach at Hoffman Square, in Bloemfontein Central which will be followed by the Annual Thusong Service Centre Awards.

The Awards will take place at the Floreat Hall, Bram Fischer Building, Mangaung Metro, in Bloemfontein. The event will be officiated by the Deputy Ministers in the Presidency and the Premier of the Free State, Mxolisi Dukwana. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Wed, 04/17/2024 - 10:04

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Fleece Jackets and Tops: The Warm Front of Corporate Branding

Location: MyPR

Introduction As the cooler months approach, the shift towards warmer corporate attire becomes imperative for businesses across various industries. Fleece jackets and tops, with their perfect blend of comfort, style, and practicality, have emerged as a popular choice in corporate clothing. At Perkal, a diverse array of fleece jackets and tops is available, catering to …

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