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You are here: Home / Archives for office

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27 March 2024

KZN welcomes over 4000 new employees

Location: News

KZN welcomes over 4000 new employees

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has welcomed over 4 000 new employees as part of the government's S’thesha Waya Waya e-recruitment initiative.

S’thesha Waya Waya is a provincial government initiative that assists job seekers by providing an online portal to search and apply for jobs in the public sector. 

This initiative has benefited thousands of job seekers across departments and public entities.

CoGTA MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, handed over appointment letters to new employees during a ceremony held this week at the uThongathi Sport Centre.

The new recruits, which included among others over 500 interns, 220 in-service trainees and 100 permanent employees, received their appointment letters to officially welcomed them into the public sector.

Sithole-Moloi said the department conducted a major recruitment drive through the government’s Sthesha Waya Waya e-recruitment initiative.

The interns and in-service trainees will be placed in different municipalities across the province, while others will be based in the head office to capacitate different units with their new skills and acquire the experience that will help them to become employable.

She said the majority of the new employees, which include professional officers, middle, and senior managers, will assume their duties on 1 April 2024.

The MEC reiterated government's commitment to creating sustainable jobs by simplifying the application process.

While still accepting traditional CV submissions, she said most applications are received through S’thesha Waya Waya, via the online portal. 

“We still have more positions that have been advertised, and we encourage job seekers to utilise the platform by visiting the department website and logging onto the job portal. It is an easy and cost-effective method; we want to support job seekers in securing employment,” Sithole-Moloi said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 03/27/2024 - 11:33

884 views
Read moreKZN welcomes over 4000 new employees
27 March 2024

Comments sought on ConCourt, SCA nominations

Location: News

Comments sought on ConCourt, SCA nominations

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) is calling for submissions on the suitability or otherwise of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s nomination of Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya to the position of Chief Justice.

The position will become vacant at the end of August this year when the term of office of Chief Justice Raymond Zondo comes to an end.

Submissions are also sought on the President’s nomination of the Chairperson of the Electoral Court, Justice Dumisani Zondi, to the position of the Deputy President of the Supreme Court of Appeal.

“Deputy Chief Justice MML Maya and Justice DH Zondi have accepted nomination and on 22 March 2024 submitted the required questionnaire for Judges and all the standard documents required of persons who seek to be appointed as Judges.

“Law bodies, members of the public and other interested institutions are invited to make written submissions on the suitability or otherwise of the President’s nominees for appointment as Chief Justice and Deputy President of the SCA respectively, and any other relevant information relevant to the selection process,” the JSC said.

Comments can be sent to the Secretariat of the JSC at MMondlane@judiciary.org.za and TPhaahlamohlaka@judiciary.org.za with copy to JSC@judiciary.org.za.

“All comments must reach the Secretariat of the JSC by no later than 02 May 2024. Comments on each nominee must be submitted on separate pages. No comments received after the closing date will be considered.

“After receipt of comments, the JSC will invite the nominees to attend interviews that will be open to the public. Details of the date, time and venue will be communicated to the media and the public in due course,” the JSC said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Wed, 03/27/2024 - 12:06

60 views
Read moreComments sought on ConCourt, SCA nominations
26 March 2024

Minister conducts site inspection at Lighthouse Precinct project

Location: News

Minister conducts site inspection at Lighthouse Precinct project

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille visited the Lighthouse Precinct project in the Cape Agulhas National Park on Tuesday to inspect progress on site and to impress on all stakeholders the importance of working together to grow the country’s tourism offerings. 

The project is one of many being implemented by the Department of Tourism across the country as part of the Tourism Sector Master Plan’s objectives to stimulate demand by investing in new and maintaining existing tourism infrastructure and attractions.

The Lighthouse Precinct Project in the Agulhas National Park in the Western Cape is a R54.9 million investment by the department into the area to ensure that the site remains attractive to visitors and supports tourism development in the surrounding communities.

The project is being implemented together with the SANParks and overall progress on site is now at 73% and it is anticipated that it will be completed in June this year.

The park is located in the Southern Overberg region of the Western Cape and stretches along the coastal plain between the towns of Gansbaai and Struisbaai and includes the southern-most tip of Africa.

“Investment in infrastructure by government shows the private sector that we are serious about growing our tourism offering and by government investing, we are creating the conditions conducive for further investment by the private sector.

“As a top tourist destination, we remain committed to constantly diversifying and growing our tourism offering so that we remain an attractive destination that keeps visitors coming back,” de Lille said after the visit, along with the Mayor of the Cape Agulhas Municipality, Paul Swart, the Deputy Mayor of the Overberg District Municipality, Helen Coetzee and other councilors from the region.

The project was funded in two phases. Phase 1 was completed in 2018. Phase 2 is currently under construction and includes:

• Construction of a restaurant

• Interpretation centre (including vendor stalls, ablution facilities, curio shops, booking office and lecture theatre)

• Construction of reception area/offices

• External works and bulk infrastructure

The project also has a significant socio-economic benefits as so far the project has employed 77 people including 48 youth, 50 women and two persons with disabilities during construction.

Eight sub-contractors from surrounding communities were also employed on the project to do work such as brick and steel work, stone cladding, laying of kerbs and channels.

De Lille said all stakeholders were pleased with the progress of the project and have agreed that they must continue working as partners, the department, SANParks, the Cape Agulhas and the Overberg District Municipalities to ensure that the project continues to benefit the area for many years to come.

“We must work together to ensure its continued success and to ensure that the attraction is properly maintained and looked after so that it can bring economic benefits to tourism and the surrounding communities,” de Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 03/26/2024 - 14:06

263 views
Read moreMinister conducts site inspection at Lighthouse Precinct project
26 March 2024

Pay your customs tax!

Location: News

Pay your customs tax!

Taxpayers have been reminded to settle their tax and customs payments as well as their tax and customs debt to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) by or on Thursday this week.

“Tax payments can be made via a bank, electronic funds transfer (EFT), via eFiling or the SARS MobiApp Customs payments can also be made at any SARS customs office.

“It is important that taxpayers and traders perform the payment transaction during business hours to authorise their banking institutions to release the payment to SARS - a required step if the payment is made via eFiling and the MobiApp.

“Balance amount enquiries may be made by requesting a statement of account on eFiling or the SARS MobiApp or by SMS to SARS on 47277,” the revenue service said in a statement.

Employment statistics

Meanwhile, Statistics South Africa’s latest Quarterly Employment Statistics shows a decrease in total employment during the last quarter of 2023.

Despite this, year-on-year December 2022 to December 2023, total employment has increased.

“[According] to the report total employment decreased by 194 000 or -1.8% quarter-on-quarter, from 10 899 000 in September 2023 to 10 705 000 in December 2023. This was due to decreases in the following industries: community services -214 000 or -6.8%, construction -19 000 or -3.1%, business services -12 000 or -0.5%, manufacturing -7 000 or -0.5%, and mining -1 000 or -0.2%. However, there were increases in the following industries: trade 56 000 or 2.4%, transport 2 000 or 0.4% and electricity 1 000 or 1.6%.

“Total employment increased by 98 000 or 0.9% year-on-year between December 2022 and December 2023,” the institution said.

Fulltime employment showed an increase of some 12 000 jobs between December 2022 and December 2023 while part-time employment increased by 86 000 during the same period.

On a quarter to quarter basis, however, downturns were experienced.

“Full-time employment decreased by 5 000 or -0.1% quarter-on-quarter, from 9 498 000 in September 2023 to 9 493 000 in December 2023. This was due to decreases in the following industries: construction -13 000 or -2.4%, manufacturing -12 000 or -1.0%, community services -11 000 or -0.5%, business services -3 000 or -0.1%, and mining -1 000 or -0.2%. However, there were increases in the following industries: trade 31 000 or 1.5%, transport 3 000 or 0.7%, and electricity 1 000 or 1.6%.

“Part-time employment decreased by 189 000 or -13.5% quarter-on-quarter, from 1 401 000 in September 2023 to 1 212 000 in December 2023. This was due to decreases in the following industries: community services -203 000 or -27.2%, business services -9 000 or -3.8%, construction -6 000 or -7.8%, transport -1 000 or 5.3%. Electricity industry reported no change. However, there were increases in the following industries: trade 25 000 or 10.4%, and manufacturing 5 000 or 6%,” Stats SA said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 03/26/2024 - 14:23

302 views
Read morePay your customs tax!
26 March 2024

Rude and threatening magistrate fired

Location: News

Judge upholds dismissal of Judith van Schalkwyk, who also took money from an attorney to travel to the US

Read moreRude and threatening magistrate fired
26 March 2024

 Independent and political party candidates lists available for inspection

Location: News

 Independent and political party candidates lists available for inspection

The Electoral Commission (IEC) will today and tomorrow between 09:00 and 17:00 make the lists with the names of independent and political party candidates available for inspection at its national office, at all its nine provincial offices and at local municipal offices.

Parties intending to contest the elections had until 17:00 on Monday to revise their lists and inform the commission if they had nominated candidates who also appeared on the list of another party or who were nominated as independent candidates.

In all, there were 42 candidates appearing on more than one party list implicating 39 parties. Furthermore, one candidate was nominated as an independent candidate and also appeared on a list of a party.

“The focus in the evolving candidate nomination process shifts to a period within which interested persons may inspect the lists of candidates and raise objections against candidates.

“To this end, the Commission will today and tomorrow, between 09:00 and 17:00 make the lists with the names of independent and political party candidates available for inspection at its national office, and in all its nine provincial offices and in local municipal offices.

“Copies of the documents accompanying the lists are available for inspection at the commission’s national office between 09:00 and 17:00,” said the commission in a statement.

In all, 14 662 candidates have been nominated to contest the 887 seats available in the National Assembly and the nine legislatures. The spread of the candidates is as follows:

  • 4 323 candidates have been nominated to contest the compensatory seats in the National Assembly (contested by parties only),
  • 3 596 candidates have been nominated to contest the regional seats in the National Assembly (contested by party candidates and independents) and
  • 6 743 candidates have been nominated to contested seats in the provincial legislatures (contested by party candidates and independents).

The biggest ballot paper will contain 56 contestants. This is the ballot for the compensatory seats in the National Assembly. The biggest regional election ballot will be in the Gauteng region with 40 political parties and 2 independent candidates.

Similarly, the biggest ballot in respect of provincial legislature elections will be in Gauteng with 42 political parties and 2 independent candidates.

Seven independent candidates will contest the regional elections and six will contest the provincial legislature elections. The region with the most number of independent candidates is the Limpopo region with three candidates.

Any person may object to the nomination of a candidate. Such objections must be lodged with the commission by 17:00 on 27 March 2024.

An objection may be raised on the basis that an independent candidate or nominating party has failed to submit the signed prescribed acceptance of nomination or that there is no signed prescribed undertaking, that the candidate is bound by the electoral code of conduct, the commission said.

An objection may be on the basis that a candidate is not qualified to stand in the election. In this regard section 47 and 106 of the Constitution are instructive.

The sections provide that every citizen who is qualified to vote for the National Assembly is eligible to be a member of the Assembly, except:

(a) Anyone who is appointed by, or is in the service of the state and receives remuneration for that appointment or service

(b) Permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces or members of a provincial legislature or a Municipal Council

(c) Unrehabilitated insolvents

(d) Anyone declared to be of unsound mind by a court of the Republic or,

(e) Anyone who, after this section took effect, is convicted of an offence and sentenced to more than 12 months imprisonment without the option of a fine, either in the Republic, or outside the Republic if the conduct constituting the offence would have been an offence in the Republic, but no one may be regarded as having been sentenced until an appeal against the conviction or sentence has been determined, or until the time for an appeal has expired. A disqualification under this paragraph ends five years after the sentence has been completed.

The commission will decide the objections by 28 March 2024. The objector, registered party or nominated candidate may appeal against the decision of the Commission to the Electoral Court by 2 April 2024.

The final list of candidates contesting the elections will be published by the Commission on 10 April 2024.

Voters are reminded that they may only vote at a voting station in which they are registered.

Voters who will unavoidably be away from their voting districts on Election Day may give notice of their intention to vote at another identified voting station by 17 May 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 03/26/2024 - 09:32

211 views
Read more Independent and political party candidates lists available for inspection
25 March 2024

Labour inspectors to be trained in scientific methods

Location: News

Labour inspectors to be trained in scientific methods

The Department of Employment and Labour has officially unveiled an Occupational Health and Hygiene laboratory as part of exploring new ways of conducting inspections and equipping the inspectorate to adopt a scientific approach to their work. 

The laboratory, unveiled by the Chief Directorate: Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) on Monday, is the first of its kind for the department and is located on the ground floor of the department’s head office in Laboria House, Pretoria.

The department’s Chief Inspector, Milly Ruiters, said the laboratory is part of a drive by the Inspection and Enforcement Services (IES) branch to professionalise the work of the inspectorate and will be replicated in all provinces.

“The purpose of the laboratory is multifaceted, in that it will be used as a training facility in the field of occupational hygiene to prepare and provide technical support for OHS inspectors. 

“Furthermore, this laboratory will also be used to support practical exposure for inspectors who wish to prepare themselves for professional certification in the field of occupational hygiene,” Ruiters said.
 
The laboratory will also be used to support exposure monitoring by inspectors in high-profile inspections and investigations. 

The facility is equipped with equipment capable of monitoring several occupational stressors (factors in the workplace that cause stress to employees) including noise, hazardous chemical agents, illumination, indoor air quality, and airflow. 

Ruiters said the department has 700 OHS inspectors and the bulk of them are specialising in Occupational Health and Hygiene (OHH). 

“We previously had OHS inspectors focused mainly on engineering. We are branching into other areas of OHH. This is a milestone for us. 

“A lot of employers are not complying with OHH. With this facility, we will empower our inspectors to go and do spot checks and they will no longer be second-guessing,” she said.

Ruiters said the department views the laboratory launch as part of its capacity building and developing a cohort of specialists. 

“We want to proactively prevent injuries and diseases. We are preparing to prevent rather than investigate incidents.”
 
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), work-related stress can be caused by poor work organisation; poor work design (lack of control over work processes); poor management; unsatisfactory working conditions, and lack of support from colleagues and supervisors.

The department’s IES branch Inspector General, Aggy Moiloa, said the unveiling of the laboratory is the start of "something big" that is coming and a legacy the branch wants to leave behind. 

“While this is a humble beginning, it is a giant step,” Moiloa said. 

Department of Employment and Labour Senior Specialist: OHH, Bulelwa Huna, said the launch of the “small” facility has been a long journey, which started in 2018 in partnership with the department’s stakeholders. 

Huna warned that occupational hazards are silent killers. 

“As a department, we will not accept the proposition that injury and death go with the job. When we talk about creating decent work, we cannot leave out OHH. 

“We want to support inspectors when making decisions. We want to develop technical data that supports reports. The facility will also make our inspectors comfortable using the instruments,” Huna said. 

The department has spent R956 000 to set up the facility, and the OHH Directorate will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the laboratory. 

The department emphasised that the lab is not replacing the work of existing authorities. The Compensation Fund, an entity of the department, is expected to be one of the beneficiaries of the work of the lab. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Mon, 03/25/2024 - 14:37

502 views
Read moreLabour inspectors to be trained in scientific methods
25 March 2024

Elections 2024: How people with disabilities can vote

Location: News

There are various ways but remember to apply in time for a special vote if you need one

Read moreElections 2024: How people with disabilities can vote
25 March 2024

Cape Town school in the dark because it owes thousands to Eskom

Location: News

A teacher at Vergenoegd Primary in Delft, Cape Town, says they discovered that the bursar office missed payments from August 2023

Read moreCape Town school in the dark because it owes thousands to Eskom
25 March 2024

Specific Cloud Platforms For Businesses To Use In South Africa

Location: MyPR

SevenC, a leading IT infrastructure and network service provider striving to identify and make available the best possible ICT strategies for its clients’ unique needs, explores the unique offerings of specific cloud platforms and how businesses can choose the right one. “Chances are, if you’ve navigated the web or used an app recently, you’ve interacted …

Read moreSpecific Cloud Platforms For Businesses To Use In South Africa
23 March 2024

Rate of Tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis, treatment in Africa increasing

Location: News

WHO Regional Office for Africa
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About 70% of tuberculosis (TB) cases in the African region are now being diagnosed and treated, marking the highest case-detection rate in the region ever, thanks to concerted efforts by countries to address the threat of the disease.

Although the case detection rate has been on the rise since 2018, the region saw a significant increase between 2020 and 2022, rising from 60% to 70% of cases being detected, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Tuberculosis Report 2023. There has also been a notable reduction in the region in the number of people with TB who miss diagnosis. An estimated 700 000 people missed diagnosis in 2022, a 10% reduction compared with 2021. To further rally efforts to end the disease through concerted global efforts to advance detection, diagnosis and treatment, World TB Day is being marked this year under the theme “Yes! We can end TB”. 

In the African region a range of factors have helped boost TB diagnosis rates. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries-maintained TB notification services, ensuring that cases were detected and treated. In Nigeria, which has a huge TB burden, case notification nearly tripled over the past five years to 285 000 cases in 2022 from 106 000 cases in 2018. Improvement in the management of HIV infection, a significant driver of TB, has also bolstered TB detection rates in the region.

“More efforts are still needed to reduce the devastating impacts of this disease on families and communities. As WHO we continue working closely with governments to address the barriers to effective response and speed up the momentum to make TB history,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa.

The region, which accounts of 23% of TB cases and 33% of deaths globally, is making steady progress towards ending the disease.  For example, Cabo Verde, Eswatini and South Africa have achieved at least a 50% reduction in TB cases. The WHO End TB Strategy calls for countries to reduce TB deaths by 75% and cases by 50% by 2025 compared with the 2015 levels.

Across the region TB deaths fell by 38% and new cases declined by 23% in 2022 compared with 2015. High-burden TB countries have surpassed the 2025 milestone to lower TB deaths.

Despite the progress, further efforts are needed to meet the 2030 global End TB Strategy targets to cut TB deaths by 90% and cases by 80%. These include increased investments in TB control programmes. In 2022, in the African Region, the Global Plan to End TB 2018-2022 estimated that US$ 3.9 billion were required annually to achieve the targets, but only around US$ 890 million were mobilized for TB prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Domestic funding represented about 46% of total funding for TB (54% from international funding) in 2022. 

Limited access to health services, inadequate health infrastructure, insufficient quality of care, inadequate human resources for health and inadequate social protection are also impeding progress to ending TB. 

Globally TB continues to claim millions of lives annually. In the African region Africa, TB was the second leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, with nearly 2.5 million people falling ill and 424 000 lives lost in 2022.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

Read moreRate of Tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis, treatment in Africa increasing
21 March 2024

Durban residents protest for water on Human Rights Day

Location: News

“How can we celebrate human rights without water?” asks protester

Read moreDurban residents protest for water on Human Rights Day
20 March 2024

Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Recommends Candidates for CGE Positions

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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The Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities met yesterday (19 March) and today to deliberate and select candidates from those interviewed to fill six vacancies at the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE).

Having conducted interviews and considering all the relevant documentation, including verifying candidate's qualifications (done by Parliament's Human Resources division) and candidates' security screening (done by the State Security Agency), the committee agreed on the suitable candidates it would recommend to the President for his consideration.

The committee agreed to recommend candidates for part- and full-time positions left vacant by CGE commissioners whose terms of office expire between the end of March and July 2024.

In fulfilling their constitutional mandate, the committee nominated and recommended the following candidates for appointment:

 Ms Seeham Samaai

 Full time

 Ms Mulalo Grace Nemathaheni

 Full time

 Mr Mfundo Nomvungu

 Full time

 Ms Yanga Malotana

 Full time

 HRH Princess Royale Eurika Mogane

 Part time

 Mr Kamohelo Rodney Teele

 Full time

 Dr Marion Lynn Stevens

 Full time

 Dr Charnell Ruby Naidu

 Part time

The recruitment process was guided by the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa and the CGE Act. The process the committee followed was also in line with the Employment Equity Act and Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

Committee chairperson Ms Nonhlanhla Ncube-Ndaba said the recommended candidates are representative of race, gender and age groups, provincial distribution and disability.

The report will be debated in the National Assembly before 28 March 2024. Upon the National Assembly's adoption of the names of the recommended candidates, a report will be sent to the President for his consideration.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read moreCommittee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Recommends Candidates for CGE Positions
20 March 2024

Development of Cape Town’s The Rubik nears completion

Location: MyPR

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA, 20 March 2024 – Cape Town’s skyline is reaching new heights as The Rubik, a dazzling luxury apartment complex in the heart of the CBD, has reached the peak of its vertical ascent. With 27 levels of premium living and commercial spaces, The Rubik’s modern glass exterior promises residents and businesses …

Read moreDevelopment of Cape Town’s The Rubik nears completion
20 March 2024

SIDSSA 2024: Unpacking South Africa’s Top 12 Infrastructure Priorities

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala unpacked the country's 2024/2025 infrastructure priorities and project pipeline during a panel session at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024 in Cape Town on Tuesday.

According to Minister Zikalala, the country's top 12 infrastructure priorities seek to stimulate job creation, promote economic competitiveness and contribute to broadening economic inclusivity.

“We announced the 12 priority projects today and it's important to give a background as to how we arrived at this priority list. We want projects that will contribute to higher GDP impact, but at the same time, ensure export and embrace the green economy,” he stated.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit https://SIDSSA.org.za/.

With support from Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) – a program within the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure – the projects also aim to accelerate private sector-led development. The projects are poised to serve as a catalyst for closing the infrastructure investment gap, while meeting the infrastructure target set out by the government's National Development Plan.

“It was very important for us to ask what we plan to contribute from an operational perspective to all the socioeconomic perspectives outlined by the Minister,” stated Mameetse Masemola, Head of ISA. “We will work very closely with the project sponsors in unpacking the work and once we are ready, we will invite transactional advisors.”

It was noted during the session that shortfalls in operation and maintenance have resulted in the underdevelopment of South Africa's infrastructure strategy. As such, the need to meet end-user's requirements, the mobilization of digital infrastructure and ensuring operational competency were noted as prerequisites to de-risk investment in the sector.

“The projects listed give the catalytic impetus to develop our industry,” stated Wayne Petersen, Director of Transport and Infrastructure at WSP Group. “We have to ensure that the private sector invests strongly in the projects that are implemented.”

Meanwhile, panelists touched on the importance of bankability and sustainability in attracting private sector investment towards infrastructure projects in the country.

“Infrastructure assets are not only about the assets themselves, but also about the economics that surround them,” said Catherine-Candice Koffman, Group Executive for Project Preparation at the Development Bank of Southern Africa. “Bankability is very much about ensuring we have a project that doesn't rely too much on the fiscus. A successful project is one where you use as little budgetary capital to fund the projects as possible.”

For South Africa's infrastructure projects to maintain operational efficiency after completion, it was noted that the country will need to invest in attracting international talent while promoting human capital development, with Partner at PwC Southern Africa Chris van der Merwe stating, “These projects need to strike a balance between economic and social projects.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About SIDSSA 2024:
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.

Media files
Energy Capital & Power
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Read moreSIDSSA 2024: Unpacking South Africa’s Top 12 Infrastructure Priorities
20 March 2024

Lifestyle audits for Executive underway

Location: News

Lifestyle audits for Executive underway

President Cyril Ramaphosa says despite several delays, lifestyle audits for the President, Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers are now underway.

The President was participating in the Questions for Oral Reply session held in the National Assembly on Tuesday.

“After several delays, lifestyle audits of Members of the Executive are underway. This process is being led by the Director-General in the Presidency and Secretary of Cabinet. The President, Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers are currently in the process of submitting additional information required for these audits.

“As I have indicated before, the aim of a lifestyle audit is to collect as much information as possible on an individual’s lifestyle to be able to identify when an individual’s expenditure exceeds his or her income. In itself, a lifestyle audit is not conclusive, but may indicate that further investigation is required to establish if there is any wrongdoing,” he said.

President Ramaphosa explained that the function of carrying out the audits was moved to the office of the Director-General, Phindile Baleni, owing to cost containment.

“The Office of the Director-General had to source competent and skilled personnel with experience in conducting lifestyle audits. The capacity building exercise took longer than anticipated which impacted negatively on the timelines for the audits.

“This is the first time that national government is conducting lifestyle audits of Members of the Executive, requiring new systems, processes and methodologies to be developed.”

He said the Director-General will decide on the most appropriate way to communicate the outcomes of the audits once completed. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 09:33

302 views
Read moreLifestyle audits for Executive underway
19 March 2024

South African Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Prioritize Gas, Renewable Energy to Drive Efficiency

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

South African Special Economic Zones (SEZ) are turning to natural gas and renewable energy to secure energy supply while improving operational efficiency. During a panel discussion at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) in Cape Town on Tuesday, representatives from various SEZs across the country underscored the role gas and renewables have already begun to play.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit https://SIDSSA.org.za/.

With South Africa currently faced with an energy crisis, ensuring stability of supply has become a rising challenge for businesses across the country. SEZs are not exempt in this regard. According to Bheka Zulu, CEO, Tshwane Automotive SEZ, “This has led us to find innovative solutions…we are currently building a gas plant project – and solar. We still need to find more energy. Partnerships are key, because stakeholders can help us achieve this.”

Similarly, the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) SEZ is also developing gas and renewable energy projects to enhance energy security while reducing reliance on the national electrical grid. Simthembile Mapu, Executive Manager: Business Development and Support at the RBIDZ SEZ, said “We have a gas to power plant and are also constructing a pipeline. We also have a wind farm.”

While renewables stand to support operational efficiency, baseload power provided by South Africa's state utility Eskom remains imperative.

“We are talking about an intervention in renewable energy. Renewable energy is less about the base load. We can never downplay the role Eskom plays to make sure the baseload is taken care of. The issue of the lack of power is a major [challenge]. We need to sort out the issue of power supply in our country to support SEZ,” stated Themba Koza, Acting CEO, COEGA.

Strategically designated areas for targeted economic activities, South Africa's SEZs are to accelerate industrialization in the country. Stieneke Jensma, COO: Industrial Zones Program, Industrial Development Corporation, explained that “Our mandate is to accelerate the development of SEZ. We started a program focusing on energy security, specifically regarding SEZ. The idea is to collaborate and to ensure that what we are delivering promotes industrialization.”  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About SIDSSA 2024:
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.

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19 March 2024

6 Infrastructure Agreements Signed at SIDSSA 2024

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

Several infrastructure and finance-focused deals were signed during a media briefing at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) on March 18. The six deal signings aim to bolster private-led investment in South African infrastructure projects and cover various strategic areas including project development, financing, capacity building and research.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala and John Humphrey, the UK's Trade Commissioner for Africa. The deal builds on three agreements signed between the countries since the launch of Infrastructure South Africa in 2020 and aims to strengthen cooperation regarding project preparation, appraisal and development.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit www.SIDSSA.org.za.

The remaining five deals were signed by Infrastructure South Africa – represented by Mameetse Masemola, Head of Infrastructure South Africa - and various organizations. These include an MoU signed with the South African Institution of Civil Engineering to aid in collaboration and initiatives within the infrastructure planning and development space. The MoU covers strategic areas of cooperation including capacity building, project development and research.

An agreement was signed between Infrastructure South Africa and the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The MoU will see the parties take the country's infrastructure investment drive global, with support provided in promoting South Africa's project portfolio.  

Meanwhile, an agreement was signed with the Transnet National Ports Authority for the development of The Construction Book – set to be launched on 19 March at SIDSSA – and the development of strategic integrated projects.

A Memorandum of Agreement was signed with the South African Road Agency (SANRAL). Infrastructure South Africa and SANRAL will collaboratively work towards closing the country's infrastructure investment gap, developing The Construction Book while developing strategic projects.  

Infrastructure South Africa also recently signed an MoU with the University of Johannesburg, announced during the SIDSSA media briefing. The media briefing was facilitated by South Africa's Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong and featured updates on projects and national infrastructure priorities.

SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event. The Masterclass on Sustainable Infrastructure Development is held in collaboration with the National School of Government.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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19 March 2024

Experience the magic of this year’s Oscar-winning movies on your LG OLED TV

Location: MyPR

The glitz and glamour of the Oscars may have faded, but the magic of the award-winning films lives on. If you’re a movie lover, you know the Oscars are the ultimate benchmark of the year’s must-watch films. Every year, the Academy Awards honour the best of the best in cinema, from acting to directing, from …

Read moreExperience the magic of this year’s Oscar-winning movies on your LG OLED TV
19 March 2024

African Ministers Discuss Infrastructure Cooperation at Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDSSA) Leaders Meeting

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

South African and regional ministers convened to pinpoint key infrastructure priorities both within South Africa and across the continent during a Leaders Meeting at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium (SIDSSA) 2024 on March 18 in Cape Town.

The discussion, which was led by South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala, underscored the importance of project preparation, engagement from both the public and private sectors, maintenance and the implementation of sustainable facilitation methods as crucial elements in fostering investment and promoting regional harmonization within the infrastructure sector.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit www.SIDSSA.org.za..

“The purpose of this forum is to identify areas of priority on infrastructure and ensure that we integrate efforts to implement those projects,” Minister Zikalala stated.

The establishment of Infrastructure South Africa aims to serve as a point of entry for infrastructure planning in the country. The organization is a one-stop shop that catalyzes the country's infrastructure target set out in South Africa's National Development Plan, providing best practices in project preparation, planning and technical and financial support for projects.

“We have been established as a bespoke infrastructure development agency in the country,” stated Infrastructure South Africa Head Mameetse Masemola, adding, “We deal with matters around private sector-led infrastructure projects, which require authorizations, permits, licenses and normal bureaucracy around getting projects to be implemented. We unlock these restrictions.”

Meanwhile, it was noted that cross-border collaboration between countries in Africa is a requisite to creating the conditions conducive for the private sector to participate in the continent's infrastructure development. A number of MoUs between South Africa and its neighboring countries – including Lesotho, Eswatini and Zimbabwe – have served to promote regional integration in the infrastructure sector.

“Our main role for the continent is to ensure that we invest in critical infrastructure so that we put in the building blocks that ensure that our nations prosper and that we grow together,” stated South Africa's Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille.

A number of efforts introduced by South Africa's Department of Transport have worked to facilitate the ease of movement from the country's ports and air space. By liberalizing the continent's air space and maritime territories, Africa will be able to harmonize the implementation of favorable regulatory frameworks that promote integration.

“We have introduced a number of efforts in trying to bring about this harmonization between our countries,” stated South Africa's Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga, adding, “For instance, in South Africa, we have introduced Cross Easy, which ensures that when a truck arrives at a port, it is already processed and reduces its travel time.”

The participation of the Premiers of the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal provinces showcased how South Africa can further integrate the country's infrastructure systems. It was noted during the discussion that South Africa's economy relies on the efficiencies of its ports, rail network and aviation network and that it is imperative for the rest of the continent to benefit from the modernization of the country's infrastructure industry.

“We share borders with countries such as Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho, amongst others, and this puts us in a strategic position in terms of ensuring our infrastructure planning and the integration of our infrastructure maximizes the potential of the African continent in terms of moving goods,” stated KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

International ministers from Liberia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Seychelles and Equatorial Guinea also participated in the Leaders Meeting, making a case for investment in their respective countries' infrastructure space.

“We have come to share with you, to learn with you and to communicate with you. We find that rapid technological advancement is significant and cannot be overstated,” stated Liberia's Minister of Ports and Telecommunications Sekou M. Kromah, adding, “As we experience the competitiveness of the digital age, it is imperative that our digital infrastructure is able to meet the demands of an ever-changing landscape.”

“The heads of infrastructure departments must always gather to discuss and help other countries that haven't been developed yet,” concluded Equatorial Guinea's Minister of Public Works, Housing and Town Planning, Don Pascual Ondo Nze Oyana.

SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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19 March 2024

Action-packed cricketing weekend at Dafabet St George’s Park Cricket Stadium

Location: MyPR

T20 Challenge leaders Dafabet Warriors will be in action on their home ground of Dafabet St George’s Park twice over the coming public holiday and long weekend. After a run of four straight wins, they play World Sports Betting Western Province on March 21, the public holiday. “We are looking forward to our local fans …

Read moreAction-packed cricketing weekend at Dafabet St George’s Park Cricket Stadium
19 March 2024

President Cyril Ramaphosa Calls to Drive Investment in Infrastructure at Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called for private-led investment in infrastructure development at the 2024 edition of the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) on in Cape Town on Tuesday.

“It is estimated that to achieve our infrastructure goals, we need almost R4.8 trillion to address the challenges we face as a country. We need that from both the public sector and the private sector – from a much larger extent,” stated President Ramaphosa.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit www.SIDSSA.org.za.

The South African government has been working to streamline its infrastructure sector and attract investment in strategic projects. Regulatory reforms, according to President Ramaphosa, include “the amendment within our own realm of the Division of Revenue Act, to enable provincial government to use their provincial grants to crowd in the private sector to finance large-scale infrastructure, and to open up opportunities for the private sector to work alongside government to create revenue generating projects.”

These reforms, as well as SIDSSA, “enables us to close the infrastructure investment gap in our country,” stated President Ramaphosa. “This is a valuable platform to enable us to have an introspective look at the opportunities that we have.”

SIDSSA 2024 is hosted by South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala, who said, “We will use this platform to outline the progress of the country since the SIDSSA in 2020. As we convene, we must emerge with tangible actions to finance infrastructure as a critical corridor to Africa's development. Infrastructure should be a flywheel of our country's economic recovery.”

Platforms such as SIDSSA – in tandem with the establishment of Infrastructure South Africa in 2020 – have been pivotal for uniting the public and private sectors, driving investment in strategic projects. According to Zikalala, “we have been able to unlock more than 195 licenses, permits and approvals within 47 projects alone. South Africa established the Infrastructure Fund to unlock more private investment in the infrastructure pipeline using a variety of blended financing tools. So far, 13 mega blended finance projects or programs have been approved to date.”

This year's SIDSSA draws insight into the progress made to transform the economy through infrastructure development. According to Tertuis Simmers, Provincial Minister of Infrastructure in the Western Cape, “The Western Cape stands as Africa's premier digital hub, and Cape Town is swiftly solidifying its position as the cloud computing hub of South Africa. Our province has ambitious vision…Central to this strategy is our commitment to infrastructure development: the bedrock of our provinces' economic advancement.”

SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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19 March 2024

Judge hospitalised after tribunal hearing against him

Location: News

Judicial Service Commission tribunal is hearing allegations of misconduct and incompetence against high court judge Tshifhiwa Maumela

Read moreJudge hospitalised after tribunal hearing against him
19 March 2024

R233 Billion Project Pipeline in Construction

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

South Africa's Deputy President Paul Mashatile announced that the country currently has R233 billion worth of infrastructure projects currently in construction, with R170 billion worth in the procurement phase and R10 billion completed. Speaking during the Stakeholder Dinner at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) on March 18, Deputy President Mashatile underscored the significant opportunities on offer for the private sector in the infrastructure space.

With government seeking to close the infrastructure investment gap, mobilizing private-led investment has emerged as a top priority. The Deputy President highlighted that through platforms such as SIDSSA, government can connect private investors to strategic projects, ensuring development leads to job creation, industrialization and long-term economic growth.

“The activities of the symposium today have set the tone for government accountability, as shown during the media briefing this afternoon as well as through collaboration and partnerships, and through the memorandum of understanding signed between government and private sector partners. Most importantly, this symposium sets the tone for collaboration and cooperation in the continent,” stated Deputy President Mashatile.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit https://SIDSAA.org.za.

Uniting regional government, global partners and private investors, SIDSSA 2024 brings together critical role-players in the infrastructure investment space, who are galvanized around a key goal of accelerating an infrastructure-led economic recovery plan. The event serves as a springboard for collaboration in Africa.

According to Sihle Zikalala, South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, “We have gathered here from all over the world to learn from each other on what we can do better to unleash a continental wide infrastructure development. We have often said Africa must be connected from Cape to Cairo, and we believe that we should lead the way to connect Africa.”  

To bolster infrastructure development, significant levels of capital are required – both in South Africa and regionally. Institutions such as the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) offer the finance needed to get large-scale projects off the ground.

The project pipeline, according to Zodwa Mbele, Group Executive: Chief Financial Officer at the DBSA, “was also dependent on institutions like the DBSA who were expected to provide and unveil the pipeline to the potential investors. It's very important that we get [projects] off ground and make sure that the infrastructure is developed because we also know that infrastructure is a [catalyst] for economic development.”

As such, South Africa's infrastructure development will largely center around public-private collaboration. John Humphrey, the UK's Trade Commissioner for Africa, explained that “partnership and collaboration sit at the heart of the UK approach to infrastructure globally, and that's why we're here today, to support the South African Government's National Infrastructure Plan and the priorities outlined in President Ramaphosa's recent address to the nation, including job creation, economic growth, solving the energy crisis, and improving public services.”

Closing off the evening, South Africa's Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Bernice Swarts underscored that, “Getting construction projects off the ground to build social and economic infrastructure is fundamental in building the Africa we want, improving services and creating jobs.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers and Energy Capital & Power. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event. The Masterclass on Sustainable Infrastructure Development is held in collaboration with the National School of Government.

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