Landfill Site Meant to Serve Mthatha Villagers Left to Vandals
R32-million was spent and the site was supposed to give the community a considerable rental income
officials
Local designers to shine at SONA
Local designers to shine at SONA
The spotlight will shine on South African fashion designers at this year’s State of the Nation Address (SONA).
While the all-important address is a platform for the President to outline the vision for South Africa for the year ahead, SONA also presents an opportunity to showcase local talent in the fashion industry.
Invited guests and dignitaries dress to the nines to honour the auspicious occasion, with many choosing to dress in locally designed garments.
Proudly South African, the country’s official ‘buy local’ advocacy organisation, is leveraging this important moment on the national calendar by partnering with SONA to elevate and support South African industries, particularly the local fashion sector.
Through the Local Fashion Police activation on the red carpet at SONA 2025, Proudly South African aims to highlight the role of local craftsmanship in economic growth and job creation.
By showcasing the incredible talent of South African designers, this activation underscores the power of local procurement as a tool for fostering a sustainable and inclusive economy.
“SONA once again represents a pivotal opportunity to highlight the role of the local R-CTFL [Retail–Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather] sector in economic reformation.
“As the country works towards revitalising the economy, it is essential to showcase the innovation and creativity within our borders. Supporting local businesses, particularly in sectors like fashion, can drive job creation and foster sustainable growth,” said Eustace Mashimbye, the Chief Executive Officer for Proudly South African on Thursday.
The Local Fashion Police activation will see government officials and prominent figures walk the red carpet, proudly wearing locally made fashion to demonstrate their commitment to supporting South African designers and manufacturers.
The "Local Fashion Police Officers” are Sello Medupe of Scalo; Palesa Mokubung of Mantsho; Otsile Sefolo of Otiz Seflo; writer Leonie Wagner and red-carpet MC Thami Dish. They will be on hand to celebrate those who choose to showcase local fashion, while also reminding influential figures who didn’t prioritise supporting local designers.
This robust, interactive element aims to spark a nationwide conversation on the importance and impact of buying local.
“By focusing on local R-CTFL industries at SONA, Proudly South African reinforces the message that economic transformation begins the moment we wake up.
“It’s not just about policy; it's about taking tangible steps to support and invest in South African businesses,” Proudly South African said in a statement.
Opportunity beyond policy
SONA, which will be held on Thursday, 6 February, remains one of the most critical moments in South Africa’s calendar, providing a stage for the President to communicate government strategies for addressing the country’s most pressing challenges -- poverty, inequality and unemployment.
Beyond policy, SONA is a catalyst for action, offering a blueprint for unlocking the potential of South Africa’s industries and talents.
In this year’s address, President Cyril Ramaphosa will highlight last year's achievements and outline interventions for the coming financial year.
Buying locally, creates more job opportunities and strengthens the economy. It reflects the power of consumer purchasing decisions, contributing to the value chain and, in the bigger picture, the country’s economy.
“It all starts with one single purchase from a local business, which then becomes a habit that then transforms into a lifestyle.
“This “local is lekker” lifestyle sustains livelihoods, bolsters the economy, and decreases economic pressures on breadwinners and society as a whole,” said Proudly South African.
The red carpet activation will also be broadcast on Parliament TV and Proudly SA’s social media channels, providing a national platform for South Africans to engage with the movement toward economic reformation and local empowerment, one purchase at a time. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 01/31/2025 - 07:52
232 views
Former Lottery Boss Is Fighting to Keep the Proceeds of His Crime, Says SIU
Alfred Nevhutanda is trying to overturn a presidential proclamation that authorises the SIU to investigate corruption at the Lottery
Quick Explainer: Interest Rates and How They Affect You
The Reserve Bank has dropped the repo rate to 7.5%. Consequently the prime lending rate has dropped to 11%. On Thursday the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank announced that the key interest rate it sets, the repo rate, would drop from 7.75% to 7.5%. What does this mean and why does it …
Tense Standoff Between Police and Kliptown Tenants
City Power officials chased away by angry group
SIU investigates Defence Department, KwaDukuza Municipality and Mpumalanga Education
SIU investigates Defence Department, KwaDukuza Municipality and Mpumalanga Education
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is rolling up its sleeves in preparation to launch three separate investigations into the Department of Defence, the KwaDukuza Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, and the provincial Mpumalanga Department of Education.
The three investigations were given the green light by President Cyril Ramaphosa after he signed proclamations authorising the tender corruption related probes.
Department of Defence
The Department of Defence is under the SIU’s investigative microscope for allegations of “serious maladministration” related to two tenders.
These tenders relate to inventory verification, continuous asset verification, and the supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of an asset management system.
“The probe will also examine whether the payments for these contracts adhered to national treasury guidelines and ascertain whether the payments were irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses for the department or the state,” the SIU said.
The probe will also hone in on department employees to “establish if there was unlawful or improper conduct” by the employees, officials or agents and any other person or entity to “corruptly or unduly benefit themselves or others”.
“The investigation will also look at whether fraudulent conduct occurred, including the causes of such maladministration, any losses, damages, or prejudice actually or potentially suffered by the Department or the State, and any irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by employees or officials of the Department or any other person or entity,” the corruption busting unit said.
Mpumalanga Department of Education
The SIU has set its sights on probing six contracts related to the “procurement and contracting for the supply of foodstuff for six schools in the province.
Investigations will assess whether the department followed National Treasury guidelines and if any irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses were incurred.
“Furthermore, the SIU will seek to establish if there was unlawful or improper conduct by the department employees, officials, agents, and any other person or entity to corruptly or unduly benefit themselves or others.
“The investigation will also at whether fraudulent conduct occurred, including the causes of such maladministration, any losses, damages, or prejudice actually or potentially suffered by the department or the State, and any irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by employees or officials of the department or any other person or entity,” the SIU said.
KwaDukuza Municipality
The probe into the KwaZulu-Natal-based municipality will investigate three infrastructure tenders issued by the municipality.
According to the proclamation, the tenders under investigation are:
- Tender MN132/2018 - Panel of contractors for road rehabilitation for a 36 month contract;
- Tender MN30/2019 - KwaDukuza Mall Bulk Supply; and
- Tender MN240/2019 - KwaDukuza Mall Bulk Supply – construction of industrial 33/11 KV substation upgrade.
“The SIU probe will examine whether the procurement and contracting were made in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective or in violation of applicable legislation, guidelines, or instructions from the National or Provincial Treasury. This includes the municipality or the State’s unauthorised, irregular or wasteful expenditure.
“The probe will also look at any irregular, unlawful, or improper conduct by officials or employees of the municipality, its suppliers or service providers, or any other person or entity implicated,” the SIU said.
Holding wrongdoers to account
The SIU assured that any evidence of alleged criminal acts will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.
“Under the SIU Act, the SIU is also authorised to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” the SIU concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 11:16
321 views
Nelson Mandela Bay kicks off service delivery campaign
Nelson Mandela Bay kicks off service delivery campaign
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, has kicked off a service delivery resuscitation campaign, which aims to ensure all metro communities receive the services they need.
Aligned with the municipality’s 100-day priorities, the campaign named “Siyasebenza Campaign: A Metro at Work”, focuses on accelerating service delivery and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Through the Siyasebenza Campaign, Lobishe is calling on local communities, businesses, and non-governmental organisations to collaborate with the municipality to improve service delivery across the metro.
The inclusive campaign, which was rolled out in Kariega this week, will address immediate concerns, including illegal dumping, street cleaning, grass cutting, pothole repairs, fixing streetlights, and upgrading public spaces.
The campaign aims to deliver visible results, while also committing to long-term interventions to ensure sustainable service delivery improvements.
During the launch of the campaign, teams including Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs), and senior officials, were deployed in various groups to cover areas across Kariega and Dispatch.
The teams attended to different service delivery challenges, including blocked sanitation infrastructure, water leaks, flooding, electricity cable theft, and general vandalism.
Speaking to residents in the affected areas that were identified by ward councillors, Lobishe said the municipality was closely monitoring the service delivery challenges faced by the communities and was working to address them.
For longer-term challenges, she said the municipality was developing sustainable solutions.
The Mayor said they were targeting wards in Kariega that were predominantly affected by the floods last year.
“We must, however, express our extreme concern and disappointment at the high levels of vandalism, currently being experienced in Kariega. We call on our people, and law enforcement to work together with us in apprehending these destructive culprits.
“Vandalism of infrastructure slows down service delivery as money meant for other community needs may be redirected to fix infrastructure that has been intentionally damaged by criminals. This does not only negatively affect our financially constrained municipality but prevents the community from enjoying services they so desperately need,” Lobishe said.
Infrastructure and Engineering Acting Executive Director, Joseph Tsatsire, affirmed the municipality’s commitment to accelerating service delivery.
"We shall be mobilising resources to accelerate the pace of service delivery, more especially in the areas identified under this campaign. Our teams are already at work, dealing with issues ranging from sanitation, water leaks and replacing vandalised infrastructure,” Tsatsire said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 13:44
160 views
Groblersbridge Port of Entry resumes operations after flooding
Groblersbridge Port of Entry resumes operations after flooding
Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, and the South African Revenue Services (SARS) on Thursday announced the resumption of operations at the Groblersbridge Port of Entry with Botswana.
This follows the temporary suspension of operations caused by severe flooding.
However, the port is now fully operational and ready to facilitate the movement of goods and people.
The flooding, which resulted from inclement weather earlier this month, necessitated the temporary suspension of services to allow for comprehensive safety assessments of the infrastructure and restoration of flooded facilities.
“The safety of all port users remains our top priority. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the public and transport operators during this challenging period,” said Commissioner Masiapato, commending the response by BMA, SARS, Groblerbridge Port Management officials, border stakeholders as well as the Botswana government.
Masiapato said the swift restoration of operations demonstrates commitment to ensure minimal disruption to trade and travel. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 15:14
38 views
Top KZN Official Could Face Criminal Charges After Tenders Probe
Provincial supply chain management director Musa Zondi was fired earlier this month
Western Cape Education’s systemic test results surpass 2019 scores
Western Cape Education’s systemic test results surpass 2019 scores
The Western Cape Education Department’s (WCED) 2024 annual systemic test results have indicated significant progress in children’s learning, with certain scores exceeding pre-COVID-19 levels.
“The pass rates for both Grade 9 mathematics and Grade 3 language are now higher than they were in 2019, with the remaining grades and subjects catching up quickly,” the department said in a statement.
The Western Cape is the only province in the country to conduct annual systemic testing in both mathematics and language for learners in Grades 3, 6, and 9.
These tests are internationally benchmarked and are administered, marked, and moderated externally to ensure objectivity and to provide a credible and relevant benchmark for evaluation.
“As a result, we have been well-placed to determine the impact of the pandemic on our children’s learning outcomes, as well as develop detailed strategies to reverse learning losses in the Western Cape.”
Headline results
According to the latest data, the pass rate for Grade 9 mathematics increased by 2.9 percentage points compared to 2023 and now exceeds the 2019 score by 0.7 percentage points.
“We also saw an increase of 4.3 percentage points for Grade 3 mathematics, and 1.1 percentage points for Grade 6 mathematics, compared to 2023. While the scores for these grades have not yet reached 2019 levels, the scores this year are nonetheless significantly higher than in 2021,” the statement read.
Grade 3 language scores increased by 2.9 percentage points compared to 2023, now exceeding the 2019 pass rate by 0.5 percentage points.
Meanwhile, the pass rate for Grade 6 language has increased by 4.0 percentage points compared to 2023, reducing the difference with 2019 scores to just 1.3 percentage points.
“Unfortunately, we have seen a decline in our Grade 9 language scores of 2.8 percentage points compared to 2023. Our officials will be looking into this result in detail to put remedial plans in place.”
Next steps
While the WCED has seen an improvement in scores, there is still work to be done, with an even greater focus on learning outcomes.
Schools will now receive individual school reports, to help them develop a tailored approach by identifying gaps in learning unique to their school’s circumstances.
The results will also be provided to curriculum officials, including those leading the #BackOnTrack programme interventions.
A key part of the #BackOnTrack programme is ensuring that interventions are refined over time to focus on the interventions that work and are sustainable.
“We will use the new data to analyse where we need to direct the programme’s resources and supplement the findings of the recent Stellenbosch University report on the effectiveness of our interventions.”
The department has thanked all the school staff, officials, tutors, and learners who have worked hard to improve learning outcomes over the past year and look forward to their support as they strive to give learners a better future in the Western Cape.
The WCED said no testing was conducted in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 09:30
78 views
Multi-Million Rand Housing Project at a Standstill for Weeks
The Bridge City Housing development was approved in 2019 but due to delays and financial problems the project remains largely incomplete
Revisiting the Africa-Paris Declaration: Progress, Challenges and the Road Ahead for African Energy
The Africa-Paris Declaration, forged during the 2024 Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris, was a pivotal moment in Africa's quest for sustainable energy solutions. Aimed at strengthening the continent's energy transition while addressing the urgent issue of energy poverty, the declaration set ambitious targets for expanding access to clean, affordable and reliable energy. With the 2025 edition of the forum approaching, now is the time to reflect on the progress made since the Africa-Paris Declaration and assess how these initiatives are shaping Africa's energy future.
Increased Engagement in Africa
In the months following the declaration, international investors, development banks and private equity firms have shown a steadfast interest in the African energy market. A key milestone was the launch of the Africa Energy Bank by the African Export-Import Bank and APPO, marking the creation of a first-of-its-kind institution designed to fund and facilitate energy initiatives across the continent. Several final investment decisions were successfully closed, including Shell's $5.5 billion Bonga North deepwater project. Additionally, strategic partnerships, including new PSCs signed by Panoro Energy in Equatorial Guinea and BW Energy in Gabon, highlight how international collaborations are accelerating energy development and creating new opportunities for exploration and production. This increased engagement is key to addressing the financing gap that has long hindered the growth of Africa's energy sector.
Natural gas continues to play a central role in Africa's energy strategy as a transitional fuel. The Africa-Paris Declaration underscored its importance as a bridge between traditional energy sources and renewable energy. Over the past year, significant strides have been made in natural gas exploration and LNG exports. Notable developments include Senegal's Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG reaching its first gas production, the Republic of Congo's first LNG exports to Italy from the Congo LNG project, Nigeria's UTM FLNG receiving its construction license, and Angola's Sanha Lean Gas Connection project achieving first gas, among others. These initiatives are not only crucial for advancing Africa's energy transition, but also serve as powerful drivers of economic growth by creating jobs and advancing infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, countries like South Africa, Egypt and Morocco are at the forefront of wind and solar energy development, with momentum expected to build as they meet renewable energy targets and explore new growth opportunities. These investments are driving a shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy in Africa, though challenges remain. High costs of renewable technologies and insufficient grid infrastructure continue to hinder expansion, underscoring the need for more investment in off-grid and mini-grid solutions.
Investment Gaps Persist
Despite these advancements, Africa still faces significant investment challenges. The financing gap for large-scale energy projects remains substantial and while the private sector has become more engaged, many projects still struggle to secure the necessary capital. In particular, the cost of financing remains high due to the perceived risks associated with energy investments in Africa. This is where continued efforts to de-risk investments and foster public-private partnerships are critical to unlocking the continent's full energy potential. Institutional capacity continues to be a challenge for many African countries. While progress has been made in improving regulatory frameworks, there is still a need for clearer policies, streamlined permitting processes and better enforcement of regulations. Governments must continue to strengthen their institutions to effectively implement energy projects and create an enabling environment for both local and international investors.
With the IAE 2025 forum just months away, industry stakeholders have an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the Africa-Paris Declaration and determine next steps for the continent's energy future. The forum serves as a platform for government officials, industry leaders and financial institutions to renew commitments, share success stories and address ongoing challenges. While the road to universal energy access and a sustainable energy future is long, the declaration has set the framework for a collective effort that can lead to meaningful change. With the right investments, regulatory frameworks and political will, Africa can emerge as a global leader in energy innovation and sustainability.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
IAE 2025 (www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Gauteng Department of Social Development Admits It Did Not Comply With Court Orders
Administrative failures continue to plague the department
De Kock remembered as defender of SA democracy
De Kock remembered as defender of SA democracy
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has praised the late Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions (DNDPP), Advocate Rodney De Kock, as a person of “high ethical standards and integrity”.
Speaking at the official memorial service for De Kock, who passed away last week, following a brief battle with cancer, Kubayi highlighted the significant loss to the country.
“Advocate De Kock’s untimely death has come at a time when his country needed him the most. It is has become difficult to find men and women of Advocate De Kock's calibre in the public service.
“I am speaking about men and women of high ethical standards and integrity, who are willing to take the road less travelled,” she said.
READ | Passing of NPA deputy head a 'profound loss'
The Minister commended De Kock’s unwavering commitment “in defence of our democracy” during the years when State capture plagued the country.
“Not so long ago, because of State capture, our young democracy was characterised by turbulence that almost destroyed critical institutions, especially the criminal justice system. The rot that seeped into the fabric of our country would not have been possible without the weakening of the institutions in the criminal justice system.
“A concerted effort was put into ensuring critical institutions in the criminal justice, [including the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)], became dysfunctional. Although the system was weakened, there were men and women who stood firm and never allowed themselves to cower under the weight of widespread wrongdoing, and Advocate De Kock was one of those individuals.
“Because of him and others like him, the system was weakened but it was never broken and was never destroyed, hence today we can talk about rebuilding the institutions,” Kubayi said.
She insisted that the “the work of building a fair and effective” NPA must continue uninterrupted in honour of De Kock.
“A lot of work has already been done to restore confidence in the work of the NPA and on the institution itself.
“There is more work that lies ahead. It is not easy to rebuild an institution whose proper functioning threatens to disrupt the lives of those who are rich and powerful. It requires men and women who are willing to stand for what is right in the face of the most unrelenting attacks,” she said.
Kubayi called on all officials serving in the NPA to double efforts to rebuild confidence in the NPA.
“The Freedom Charter, which inspired the drafting of our Constitution, envisioned a society in which all shall be equal before the law.
“It is this vision that inspired Rodney’s work as legal practitioner, and it is the vision that must continue to inspire our efforts of rebuilding the integrity and confidence of the NPA and by extension, the criminal justice system,” she said.
The Minister once again expressed condolences to the De Kock family for their loss.
“We thank the De Kock family for giving us their beloved father, son and brother to serve our country, a task in which he acquitted himself with distinction. His legacy will continue to serve as an inspiration to all of us.
“Let me again express my deepest condolences for the loss you have suffered as a family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you,” Kubayi said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 01/28/2025 - 14:30
72 views
SA hosts global circular economy workshop
SA hosts global circular economy workshop
Efforts to ensure that South Africa has a clean and healthy environment are under the spotlight at the 7th Global Forum of Cities for Circular Economy (GFCCE) workshop.
The two-day workshop, which is being hosted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in Johannesburg -- in collaboration with the Centre for Science and Environment -- is aimed at enhancing South-South cooperation for improving the solid waste management ecosystem in the Global South, and building the capacity of nominated officials from 18 African nations.
The workshop, which concludes on Wednesday, is being attended by delegates from Botswana, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Eswatini, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Addressing the opening of the workshop, South Africa's Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, highlighted some of the measures government has adopted to bolster the circular economy, focusing on reusing and recycling materials to ensure a sustainable and secure supply of resources.
“South Africa has instituted various policy instruments and initiatives to advance sustainable development pathways, with circular economy principles firmly embedded in these strategies,” Swarts said on Tuesday.
These policy instruments include the National Waste Management Strategy, Extended Producer Responsibility Regulations (EPR) for priority waste streams and other economic instruments that include fees, levies and taxes to incentivise or disincentivise behaviour change.
“Extended Producer Responsibility became necessary to be included in South Africa’s policy mix, given the increased generation of waste. EPR shifts seek to shift the responsibility for products from municipalities and consumers, to producers.
“South Africa is under immense pressure and the host city [of the workshop] - the City of Joburg - together with others - does not have sufficient landfill airspace. It is, therefore, necessary to utilise a policy mix to address resource efficiency. It is also necessary that cities are enabled to monitor resource use,” Swarts said.
The Deputy Minister noted that for meaningful progress to be made across the board, strong partnerships are needed.
"Collaboration between government and the private sector is paramount in realising the goals of the waste management hierarchy and facilitating our transition to a circular economy.
“South Africa remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening these partnerships and advancing the shared objectives of the GFCCE. This collaboration benefits our governments through reduced spending and creates green opportunities,” she said.
Since its establishment in 2021, the GFCCE has expanded to a community of 22 Member States, with 18 countries from Africa. This platform is dedicated to advancing circular economy principles in alignment with national policies and priorities.
Cities account for 75% of natural resource consumption and 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Swarts said more people will continue to migrate to cities to seek better opportunities and it is necessary that cities become resilient in resource efficiency and reduce their environmental footprint. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 01/28/2025 - 13:05
25 views
Press Ombud Rules on NEWS24’s Coverage of Gayton McKenzie’s Olympic Jaunt
Inaccuracies gave misleading impression, says McKenzie. But when will there be a proper account of how and why R800k was spent?
400 Eastern Cape Families Dumped in Wetland Without Services for 13 Years
Dutywa residents were promised houses and told relocation was only temporary by Mbashe Local Municipality
Salute to police officers!
Salute to police officers!
The blood, sweat and tears of the men and women in blue have been honoured at the official National Police Day event.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu said National Police Day, which was held in Durban on Monday, 27 January, is a platform to recognise the sacrifices, courage and unwavering dedication of the members of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“Today, we pause to reflect on your invaluable contributions, to honour your service and reaffirm our commitment to supporting and strengthening our police service,” Mchunu told officers at the event.
With South Africa having marked 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy last year, Mchunu said the journey of transformation towards a democratic South Africa has been characterised by significant shifts in creating a police service "for the people, by the people".
This year, National Police Day was held under the theme: "Celebrating 30 Years of Policing in Democracy".
In 2005, Cabinet approved 27 January as National Police Day -- a day set aside to remember the sacrifices made by men and women in blue.
“We transitioned from a past marked by division to a future founded on unity, justice and human rights,” Mchunu said.
Throughout the years, SAPS has played a critical role in strengthening democracy, protecting citizens and ensuring that every South African can live in safety and dignity.
“You are the shield between law-abiding citizens and those who wish to inflict harm upon them. You are the first line of defence in our fight against crime, corruption and lawlessness.
“We gather here at Kings Park Athletic Stadium, not only as officials and law enforcement personnel but as a unified force standing against crime and injustice.
“As officers of the law, you bear the immense responsibility of ensuring peace, maintaining order and bringing justice to those who seek to undermine our nation’s security. Every day, you put your lives on the line, facing unimaginable dangers to safeguard our communities.
“You leave your families to serve the greater family that is our beloved country. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. On behalf of the government of the Republic of South Africa and the people you so diligently protect, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. We honour your bravery. We respect your resilience, and we salute your dedication,” Mchunu said.
Crime, however, remains one of the greatest challenges facing the nation.
“We will not falter in our duty to dismantle criminal networks, to root out corruption and to restore public confidence in law enforcement. We recognise that policing is not just about enforcement; it is about service.
“It is about building trust between officers and communities, ensuring that every citizen regardless of where they live feels safe, protected and heard,” Mchunu said.
The Minister said the trust of the people in the SAPS is the greatest weapon.
“Our strength lies in the bonds we forge with our communities. The more we work together, the stronger we become in our mission to eradicate crime. A police service that commands the trust of the people is a police service that can truly make a difference.
“We must continuously invest in training, technology, and community partnerships to enhance our effectiveness. A police service that adapts, innovates, and works hand in hand with the people is a police service that can truly serve and protect,” the Minister said.
Honouring the legacy
At its last annual Police Commemoration Day in September last year, SAPS honoured 39 officers, who died in the line of duty between 01 April 2023 to 31 March 2024.
SAPS also has the South African Police Service Education Trust (SAPSET), which was officially established on 23 November 2010. The objective is to provide financial and resource support to the children of fallen heroes and heroines, who died in the line of duty.
To date, SAPSET has assisted 1 631 children; 21 have graduated, and 155 have matriculated. To date, SAPSET has raised over R17 million.
According to SAPS, operational members’ danger allowance was increased from R400 to R700 as from April 2022. - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 01/27/2025 - 14:21
97 views
Concern About Cape Town’s Plan for Woodstock Hospital
Public comment period on proposed sale closes on 31 January
Here’s What’s Happening With Johannesburg’s Libraries
Some have been closed for years but dates have been set to re-open a few of them
Judge’s Sexual Harassment Tribunal: Advocate Implies Complainant Sanitised Her Part
This after former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo was not “satisfied” with the initial complaint and secretary Andiswa Menga was told to lodge it anew
Macpherson welcomes PwC probe into R800m oxygen plant tender
Macpherson welcomes PwC probe into R800m oxygen plant tender
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has welcomed the department’s appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding a controversial R800 million Oxygen Plant tender awarded by the Independent Development Trust (IDT).
The investigation follows the IDT’s admission last year that three companies were awarded the tender despite two lacking the necessary registration with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).
According to the department, the independent probe is expected to be completed within eight weeks. Its primary objectives include determining whether irregularities occurred during the tender process and whether officials should be held accountable.
The concerns stem from allegations made last year about potential irregularities in awarding the Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Oxygen Plant bids. These include claims that two of the companies lacked SAHPRA registration and that one company may have submitted fraudulent documentation.
“This follows an admission by the IDT itself last year that concerns exist regarding the R800-million tender and that these concerns warrant investigation,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement.
The PwC investigation will focus on several key areas, including:
- Examining the tender process: Determining whether proper procedures were followed in appointing external service providers.
- Identifying financial misconduct: Establishing whether officials caused the IDT to incur irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure during the tender’s administration.
- Evaluating legal compliance: Assessing whether IDT officials or external individuals violated laws or duties during the tendering process or subsequent contract management.
- Quantifying financial losses: Determining the extent and value of financial losses incurred by the IDT in relation to the tender.
- Uncovering irregularities: Identifying illegal activity or irregular conduct involving IDT officials or external service providers.
- Recommending action: Proposing appropriate steps to hold responsible parties accountable where irregularities are confirmed.
“The independent investigation will determine whether irregularities occurred during the Oxygen Plant tendering process and whether further action is required against those implicated,” Minister Macpherson said.
He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, adding that the investigation is a crucial step in improving governance and ensuring that public funds are used responsibly.
“As Minister, I cannot turn a blind eye when serious allegations arise involving close to R1 billion of public money,” Macpherson stated. “This is why the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will remain focused on uncovering the truth, holding officials accountable where necessary, and ensuring the integrity of public procurement processes.”
Macpherson also expressed confidence that the investigation would clear innocent individuals while holding guilty parties to account.
The minister concluded, “The independent investigation should be welcomed as a vital tool in restoring public trust and addressing any misconduct in the Oxygen Plant tendering process.”
– SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 09:09
353 views
A Week Later, Cape Town Fire Victims Still Wait for Relief
SASSA says City only sent details of affected residents on Wednesday this week
Gift of the Givers Steps in to Help Komani With Water Crisis
Water in Bonkolo Dam is below abstraction level