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Emergency meeting in Eastern Cape following tragic death of 20 initiates

Location: News

Emergency meeting in Eastern Cape following tragic death of 20 initiates

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa will today lead an emergency ministerial meeting in the Eastern Cape, amid a high number of initiates who have died in the province.  

The Minister’s emergency visit follows 20 initiates losing their lives at various initiation schools.

“These deaths sent shockwaves across the country as confirmation of the unfortunate passing of initiates was publicised. 

“We must not lose sight of the fact that these late initiates are human beings with loved ones. They also have the right to life like all of us. To this effect, it cannot be business as usual,” a statement read.

The department said it was committed to ensuring that this longstanding cultural practice was performed safely, restoring its dignity.

Ulwaluko or traditional male circumcision is an age-old rite of passage that marks the transition from boyhood to manhood in Xhosa culture. 

The ritual is performed to instil social and moral values and to produce men who are responsible, hardworking and honest. 

“We know that this has been practised for generations without the challenges we have seen recently. 

“The visit of the Minister also confirms that culture does not kill, but it is those who are not following the norms and standards as contained within the Initiation Act who drag down the reputation of this cultural tradition.” 

The Minister will visit the Amathole District Municipality which has experienced one of the highest number of initiation-related deaths.

During the visit, Hlabisa will meet the provincial and local government officials, the district initiation forum, provincial initiation committees and the broader communities. 

The department acknowledged that the passing of the young men had left their families devastated.

“Therefore, this mass devastation caused by the passing of 20 initiates impacts and affects the whole nation and is tantamount to a disaster. 

“We have lost lives. Therefore, we cannot go on as if it is business as usual. Something drastic must happen to protect our youth who undertake this important cultural and traditional journey.”

Additionally, the Minister has appealed for collective efforts to safeguard this ancient cultural practice from abuse, exploitation and possible extinction. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Fri, 12/27/2024 - 09:05

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Read moreEmergency meeting in Eastern Cape following tragic death of 20 initiates

G20: A win for South Africa; a win for Africa

Location: News

G20: A win for South Africa; a win for Africa

South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 is a first for the African continent and provides a platform for the African continent’s voice to be better heard, writes Neo Semono.

A few weeks ago, on 01 December 2024, South Africa took over the Group of 20 baton from its fellow BRICS sister country Brazil. 

While the G20 is an international forum of developed and developing countries seeking  solutions to the globe’s economic and financial issues, I, like many others, feel a sense of pride knowing that an event of such magnitude is to be held on African soil come next November, and that South Africa now holds the Presidency of this enormous global body and forum.

We will certainly make the world proud, just as we have done with other global events like the 2010 Soccer World Cup, the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, BRICS, the World Conference Against Racism, and the World Economic Forum (WEF) Africa, to name a few. 

The United States of America, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, China and India are some of the member countries of the G20 that was founded in 1999 as an informal forum. 

The respected forum began its life following the Asian financial crisis of 1997-1998. The Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of the most important industrialised and developing economies met to discuss international economic and financial stability.

In its earlier days, the forum focused on macroeconomic issues but has since expanded its agenda to include trade, health and climate change, among others. 

The G20 members represent 85% of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and it may hold true that having the Presidency held by an African country, could work favourably to help African countries win the ear of the developed world - in turn helping the continent achieve its objectives of tackling economic growth, ending poverty and mitigating climate change, among others.

From the bat, South Africa as the only African country forming part of the G20, has been vocal about bringing African issues to the G20 agenda. 

During Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to South Africa recently, President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africa “will place Africa’s development and the challenges facing countries of the Global South firmly on the G20 agenda.”

“We will seek to galvanise support for the AU’s Agenda 2063, as we pursue an inclusive global agenda,” the President said in his talks with his West African counterpart.

Agenda 2063 is the African Union’s (AU) development blueprint to achieve inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development over a 50-year period. Among its goals is to have a high standard of living, quality of life and well-being for all citizens, as well as the African continent taking full responsibility for financing her development.

The President’s remarks are intrinsic to the core of South Africa’s DNA of seeking inclusivity, not only within her peoples, but with the people of the world too. 

Realising that just as no person is an island, no country is an island, and the President has said that the country would support Nigeria’s quest to become part of the G20. 

This after the AU joined the European Union (EU) in becoming the second regional body to form part of the group in September 2023.

In assuming the Presidency of the G20 under the theme:  “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”  - South Africa has hit the ground running having hosted the first Sherpa meeting on 9 and 10 December.

For those like myself who have to become acquainted with the new buzz words – Sherpas are responsible for taking the discussions and agreements made during G20 meetings held ahead of the summit, to Heads of State and Government at the final Leaders’ Summit, next year. 

South Africa’s Sherpa is the Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Zane Dangor, who is supported by Sous-Sherpas, Ambassador Xolisa Mabhongo and Advocate Nokukhanya Jele.  Sous-Sherpas are senior officials who support a Sherpa in preparing for the Summit – think sous-chef. 

Dangor described the meeting as “very successful, robust and inclusive”.

The purpose of the G20, what has been achieved, as well as what has not been achieved were among the issues on the table at the meeting.

If anything, the meeting was a clear indication that the forum is not a window dressing exercise but a frank assessment of issues under the microscope and finding solutions to the challenges at hand.

With only a few weeks into the Presidency of the G20, South Africa is not sleeping on the job, but has hit the ground running. 
It will take all sectors of society to make this Presidency a success. Let our ubuntu, the scenery of our beautiful country, frankness to speak our mind, and the ability to find solutions to challenges come to the fore. We ought to do it for ourselves and future generations.

Like we as a nation, had made an impact on all who graced our land in 2010 - let us make a similar, if not bigger impact on those who will grace our land next November. It will be time for us as a nation to showcase our sparkly spirit again to the world! And leave them coming back for more- SAnews.gov.za

Neo Semono is a Features Editor at SAnews.gov.za 

 

Neo
Thu, 12/26/2024 - 08:00

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President moves on full implementation of BELA Act

Location: News

President moves on full implementation of BELA Act

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Friday evening announced his intention to sign a Presidential Proclamation that will bring the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act into operation, immediately. 

The BELA Bill was passed by the 6th democratic Parliament on 26 October 2023. The President assented to the Bill on 13 September 2024. 

During the public signing of the Bill, President Ramaphosa announced his decision to delay the implementation date for sections 4 and 5 by three months. 

The President said in a statement issued this evening (20 December 2024) that he had met with the leaders of the parties to the Government of National Unity (GNU) today. 

“I accordingly advised them that I would proceed to sign a Presidential Proclamation to bring the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act into operation from today. I have instructed the Minister of Basic Education to see to the full implementation of the BELA Act,” the President said. 

Consensus

The President explained that at the time he assented to the BELA Bill,  "I noted that a number of parties to the Government of National Unity and other key role players in our country had expressed their wish to further engage each other on sections of the bill that deal with issues of admission and language.”

“I said that whilst I had assented to the Bill, in the spirit of cooperation and meaningful engagement, I would delay the implementation date of the BELA Act in totality by three months.”

The three months would give the parties time to deliberate on these issues and make proposals on how the divergent views may be accommodated. He also said that should the parties not agree on an approach at the end of the three-month period, he would then direct the Minister and the Department to proceed with the implementation of the Act.

The President explained that he has also instructed the Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, to do what is “necessary” as is customary with any law to ensure that the timeframe of implementation – particularly with regard to the preparedness of the system for universal Grade R access – and the consequential regulations setting out the norms and standards are prepared.

“All bodies and all officials responsible for the implementation of this Act are required at all times to act in accordance with the Constitution, the law and the relevant policies and regulations,” said President Ramaphosa.

The President said that over the last three months, discussions have been held with a view of reaching consensus on these outstanding clauses of the BELA Act.

Various formations outside of government have also made representations, both for and against the relevant sections.

Last week the President received a report from the GNU clearing house mechanism.

READ | Deputy President Mashatile clarifies position of the GNU on BELA Act

This is the structure which brings together the parties to the Government of National Unity and other parties represented in Parliament to deal with contentious issues and thereafter report to the leaders of the political parties represented in the GNU.

"In their final report, the parties agreed that the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act should not be sent back to Parliament to make changes to the sections that were in contention.

“The GNU clearing house participants agreed that the Act be fully implemented. This view was endorsed by the leaders of the parties to the GNU in a meeting I held with them today.”

READ | President notes settlement agreement with Solidarity on BELA Act

Transformation 

In his statement, the President said the BELA Act is vital to the transformation of South Africa’s education system and is an important part of ongoing efforts to build an education system that is more effective and more equitable in line with the precepts of the Constitution.

“The BELA Act continues the work that has been done over the last 30 years to ensure that all children have equal access to quality education – from their early years and throughout their schooling.

“As a democratic country committed to building a new society, we have stated unequivocally that all children must get an education that prepares them to succeed in life, no matter what the circumstances of their birth might be, no matter where they live, no matter what language they speak.

“In implementing this Act, we are all ultimately guided by the Constitution.”

Equality in education

He stressed that the Bill of Rights guarantees the right of every person to equality and that it guarantees the right of every person to receive a basic education.

“We must therefore do everything in our means to ensure that every child, without exception, has equal access to a decent, quality education. We must therefore leave no child behind.

“Let us ensure that our children get the best education so that they can take our beautiful country and our diverse nation forward to a prosperous future.” 

The first citizen said the Constitution states that every person has the right to receive education in the official language or languages of their choice where reasonably practicable.
This is a right that applies equally to an English-speaker as it does a Zulu-speaker.

“It applies equally to someone who speaks Afrikaans as it does to someone who speaks Xitsonga, Sesotho, Sepedi, isiXhosa, Setswana, Tshivenda, isiNdebele or siSwati. And now, it also applies equally to someone who uses the South African Sign Language.”

The Basic Education Laws Amendment Act enacts measures that strengthen the ability of schools to give effect to these Constitutional rights.

“In the application of this law, we must ensure that no language is diminished. Rather, we must work to ensure that all official languages are valued and promoted,” said the President. -SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo
Fri, 12/20/2024 - 18:36

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ACSA urges passengers to arrive early for flights

Location: News

ACSA urges passengers to arrive early for flights

To manage the high volumes of passengers expected at OR Tambo International Airport this festive season, holidaymakers are advised to arrive three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights, as they head to their various travel destinations.

The Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) issued a warning on Monday about longer queues at the passport control points at OR Tambo due to a failure in the border management system.  

ACSA reported that the unresponsiveness of the Border Management Authority (BMA) biometric movement control system was causing these extended queues. 

The incident affected on-time performance, which dropped to 62% on 16 December, before recovering to 85% the following day after interventions. 

At a media briefing on Thursday, ACSA CEO Mpumi Mpofu suggested alternative arrangements for the festive season, such as allowing more time for international travellers to arrive at the airport. 

Mpofu stated that the busiest day is generally the first Friday after schools close, which was on 13 December 2024. ACSA also expects Friday, 20 December, to be the busiest day of the entire peak season. 

“And that would give us 20 886 international passengers coming through, and that's both departures and arrival. And 39 423 domestic travellers on 20 of December.” 

The airport anticipates 696 000 international passengers and 262 000, on peak days, from today until Christmas Eve on 24 December. 

The briefing was held at OR Tambo in Johannesburg and comes as more people are expected to travel in and out of the country this festive season. 

The briefing focused on transparency, accountability, and the need for public cooperation. 

Mpofu also emphasised the importance of the airport as a gateway to the world and its role in the economy, particularly during the festive season. 

She also stressed the importance of facilitating passengers and the negative impact of disruptions on the economy. 

“We take our passengers seriously, but the negative impact on the economy that comes with disruptions in the flow of passengers during peak season is a matter needing serious attention. 

“OR Tambo International Airport now serves as a very important gateway during peak season, particularly, and plays an important role as one of our key international airports with three ports of entry.” 

The CEO also discussed the preparation for the peak season starting in September, involving stakeholder engagement and plan submissions. 

She stated that the recent incidents were unplanned and did not result from a lack of planning and expressed disappointment at these events. 

“Our ecosystem works based on multiple stakeholders, and I think it’s important to indicate that that’s why, when we speak as ACSA, we do so after consultation with the rest of the stakeholders on our platform.” 

She also stressed the importance of public awareness about parking arrangements and the availability of long-term parking with shuttles. 

Jet fuel

Mpofu also addressed the incident related to jet fuel and the subsequent analysis of the dry shaft and discussed upgrading the jet fuel system by March 2025. 

“Aviation is a highly safety-sensitive area where nothing can go wrong, and as such, we are also really disappointed in the events that have happened, because basically, [we] did not anticipate [them].”

BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, said 14 new systems and additional human resources have been deployed at the airport to enhance capacity. 

“We had to make sure that we respond with speed, and we have been able to deploy all our key top ICT [information and communication technology] officials on the ground to make sure that the issue is effectively addressed, and we are then able to get back to normal as fast as possible,” he said. 

Earlier this month, ACSA apologised to its stakeholders and the public for the flight disruptions that occurred at OR Tambo due to refuelling challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 12/19/2024 - 12:08

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SA, Mozambique find ways to mitigate disruptions at border posts

Location: News

SA, Mozambique find ways to mitigate disruptions at border posts

South Africa and Mozambique have agreed to enhance diplomatic channels for continuous engagement to minimise disruptions to trade and supply chains amid the ongoing post-election turmoil in the neighbouring country.

The border post’s operations were temporarily suspended recently due to protests in Mozambique, which caused disruptions near the Mozambique and South African border.

In a statement released on Monday, the Border Management Authority (BMA) said the Lebombo port of entry was running smoothly as holiday movements increase.

According to the agency, the processing of cargo on both arrival and departure continues as normal, with efficient facilitation ensuring seamless movement of goods. 

“Similarly, traveller movements in both directions are flowing without disruptions, reflecting the authority’s preparedness for the busy holiday season,” the BMA said yesterday. 

READ | Operations run smoothly at Lebombo port of entry

According to the BBC, demonstrations began at the end of October in Maputo after Daniel Chapo, the Frelimo candidate, was officially declared the winner of the elections with over 71% of the vote. 

Protesters are contesting the results of the 9 October elections, which allowed the ruling Frelimo party to extend its 49-year rule.
The protests, primarily led by young people, have resulted in violent clashes with the police, leading to at least 18 deaths, according to Human Rights Watch.

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola and his Mozambican counterpart, Pascoal Ronda, held a joint media briefing after the inter-ministerial meeting in Mpumalanga on Wednesday morning.

“This important meeting between friendly and fraternal neighbouring countries is reflective of the very good levels of bilateral cooperation between our two countries. The meeting was held in a very constructive, and cordial manner, illustrating the great spirit of collaboration between South Africa and Mozambique,” a Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) statement read.  

The meeting discussed ways to jointly address the disruptions at the ports of entry, particularly at Lebombo and Ressano Garcia, a small town in Maputo.

“In this regard, the Ministers agreed amongst others to enhance channels for frequent and continuous engagements at diplomatic and bilateral levels to mitigate disruptions to trade and supply chains, jointly identify alternative routes and deploy additional resources to expedite and facilitate trade and collaborate with all stakeholders particularly business in order limit the impact of the disruptions on their operations.” 

Both Ministers have committed to protecting and securing infrastructure for trade facilitation. 

They continue to collaborate to ensure minimal disruption for regional integration, including associated cross-border value chains.
The leaders emphasised that these disruptions have negatively affected the economies of both countries and hindered the free movement of people and goods between them.

“Many companies have suffered losses as a result of the disruption in trade. Should the situation persist there is great danger of food and energy insecurity.”

The Ministers also took the time to commend efforts undertaken by senior officials from various departments and agencies on both sides in mitigating the negative effects of the disruptions at the border to date. 

“Accordingly, the Ministers committed to accelerate actions to address existing infrastructure challenges at our ports of entry and improve cooperation by establishing a joint technical team between the two countries which will implement the decisions of this meeting,” said DIRCO.  – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Wed, 12/18/2024 - 15:16

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DPWI releases 24 State-owned properties for requests for proposals

Location: News

DPWI releases 24 State-owned properties for requests for proposals

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) has released 24 state-owned properties located across South Africa for requests for proposals from public and private entities. 

The requests for proposals follow a historic memorandum of understanding (MoU) which was signed by the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, KwaZulu-Natal MEC Martin Meyer and eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba to use public assets for the public good. 

The release of the 24 properties for requests for proposal mark a shift for the department where the state previously retained high-value properties despite the properties serving no purpose.

A month after the signing of the MoU to use public assets for public good, the DPWI this week released underutilised state-owned properties located nationwide for requests for proposals. 

In a statement on Wednesday, the department said that this marks phase one of the programme. 

Members of the public and private entities now have until the 13th of March 2025 to make proposals on how these properties can be utilised to ensure that they contribute to the public good, help ignite job creation and add value to their communities. 

After the 13 March, the requests for proposals will be evaluated to consider which are feasible before moving ahead with the process which may include long-term leases, public-private partnerships or selling the assets. 

“This marks a major milestone for the Department in the 7th Administration where we will make good on our promise to invite private and public role-players on this scale to bring us proposals on how these properties can be utilised towards truly benefitting the people of South Africa, either through repurposing or redevelopment,” Minister Macpherson said.

He added that where feasible, the State may partner with the private sector to ensure that properties contribute to economic growth and job creation. 

“We believe these properties will attract significant investment and jobs through their redevelopment.

“We are hoping to use these properties as an example of what can be achieved with underutilised state-owned properties country-wide, and we will soon be signing similar memorandums of understanding with other metropolitan municipalities in Gauteng and the Western Cape to expand the process. 

“This process signals a shift from the department that previously hung onto properties despite serving no purpose. With this programme, the era of state-owned buildings standing empty, attracting crime to communities and chasing away investment is ending,” he explained.

In this round, 24 properties were released for request for proposal located nationwide, with additional properties to be considered for release for request for proposal pending the success of this round. 

The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and the provincial DPWI are following similar processes with the underutilised properties they own.

“I would like to applaud the department public officials under the leadership of the head of the Property Management Trading Entity, Mr Siza Sibande, whose team have worked tirelessly over the past few weeks to help make our vision of using public assets for the public good. 

“By working together with the Municipality and the Provincial Government, we are charting a new course for how state-owned properties can be utilised to serve the people of South Africa,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 12/18/2024 - 13:08

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Lamola to lead delegation in meeting with Mozambique 

Location: News

Lamola to lead delegation in meeting with Mozambique 

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola will lead a delegation of South African ministers in a bilateral engagement with Mozambique on Wednesday, 18 December 2024.

The objective of this meeting is to discuss the challenges faced by the neighbouring country as the post-election turmoil in Mozambique continues to cause disruption.

According to the department, the meeting is scheduled to take place tomorrow morning at the Paradise Creek Lodge in Malelane, Mpumalanga. 

The South African delegation will consist of key officials from various departments and agencies, including Defence, Home Affairs, Trade, Industry and Competition, Police, Transport, the Border Management Authority (BMA), and the South African Revenue Services (SARS).

“The Mozambican delegation will be led by Minister Veronica Dhlovo, who will represent similar departments in her country. 

“This gathering represents a significant opportunity for collaboration and dialogue between South Africa and Mozambique,” the department’s statement read.

Both nations will also take time to host a joint press briefing to provide updates and insights into their discussions. 

This will be followed by Lamola’s tour of the Lebombo port of entry at 2pm.

In a statement released on Monday, the BMA said the Lebombo port of entry is running smoothly as holiday movements increase.
According to the agency, the processing of cargo on both arrival and departure continues as normal, with efficient facilitation ensuring seamless movement of goods. 

“Similarly, traveller movements in both directions are flowing without disruptions, reflecting the authority’s preparedness for the busy holiday season,” the BMA said yesterday. 

From Friday, 13 December to Sunday, 15 December 2024, a total of 52 252 travellers were processed at the Lebombo port of entry. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Tue, 12/17/2024 - 15:16

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Minors to be reunited with families in Mozambique

Location: News

Minors to be reunited with families in Mozambique

Twenty-seven teenage boys are set to be repatriated home to Mozambique after resurfacing from the Stilfontein unused mines more than a month ago, the Department of Social Development in the North West said.

In a statement on Tuesday, the department said among the 27 undocumented children, 15 were found by the police in Matlosana and 12 others resurfaced from the abandoned mines and were placed in temporary safe care in Mahikeng for two weeks. 

Last month, the Department of Social Development (DSD) said that about 96 undocumented children have been detained after they were found to be part of a group of illicit miners in Khuma Stilfontein, in the North West. 

At the time, the DSD said the North West provincial department had received information about the arrest of undocumented minors. 

READ | Undocumented children detained for illicit mining

The department said the placement of the minors in temporary safe care, is in line with the provisions of the Children’s Act which mandate social workers or police officials to remove a child who is in danger and place them in temporary safe care.

“On Tuesday at 00:00 am, the social workers managing the case set out to repatriate the children to Lebombo border with a police escort. This after they got permission from the court to release them from their place of safety and… repatriate them and hand them over to their counterparts in Mozambique, who will then reunify the children with their parents.

“This was made possible after the Mozambican Consulate issued them with temporary travel documents and allowed a care-to-care process between the Social Development Departments in the two countries. This was facilitated by the Department of Social Development and International Social Workers Services. The children will be handed over to social workers at the Lebombo border,” the department explained.

MEC for Social Development Basetsana Sussana Dantjie has expressed profound gratitude to her departmental team led by acting Head of Department Dr Fezile Ngqobe for arranging the temporary safe care for the children and also working around the clock to repatriate the children to their original country.

“We thank all the stakeholders who came forward and played a critical role in ensuring that these children receive the necessary care and protection. We also thank the Mozambican Consulate for speeding up the process of repatriation,” Dantjie said.

The MEC added that her department, together with stakeholders, are ready to provide similar services to other children who may resurface from the old gold mines in Stilfontein. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Tue, 12/17/2024 - 09:45

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Advancing Gender Equality in South Africa’s Just Energy Transition

Location: News
African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

A series of impactful events held between November 12-15 marked several strides forward in advancing gender equality in South Africa's Just Energy Transition.  

Organized by the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency, the Project Implementation Unit, with support from the Climate Investment Funds (https://apo-opa.co/4iDmV0s) and the African Development Bank, the week-long programme's centre-piece was a one-day workshop on gender. 

It also combined with several other events, most notably as the official launch of South Africa's Just Energy Transition Jobs First Project, the visit of Patricia Pena, Assistant Deputy Minister at Global Affairs Canada and the training of the Project Implementation Unit and provincial governmental officials on the Bank's procurement, financial management, and disbursement rules and regulations.  

“We are proud to support the Gender Equality in Just Energy Transition Workshop and South Africa's Jobs First Project, advancing Mpumalanga's green economy goals, job creation, and a just, low-carbon transition,” stated Nkosinathi Nkonyane, Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency CEO. 

Assistant Deputy Minister Pena of Global Affairs Canada remarked: “We congratulate the Government of South Africa for the leadership, ambition, and partnership with us. Through the Climate Investment Funds, we are supporting advocacy and outreach programmes to build leadership from within.” 

These events gathered stakeholders from national and provincial government officials, Just Energy Transition Project Management Unit, civil society organizations including women's groups and youth organizations, bilateral and multilateral development agencies, academia, and the private sector to drive inclusive and sustainable change. 

Through direct engagement with local voices, the Project is fostering a collaborative environment where grassroots insights are prioritized, building a foundation for a more inclusive energy transition that centres around community needs. 

A highlight of the week was the launch of South Africa's Just Energy Transition Jobs First Project. Supported by the African Development Bank, Climate Investment Funds, Irish Aid, Agence Française de Développement, and ABSA Bank, this project focuses on strengthening institutions, and empowering local communities in Mpumalanga by creating sustainable employment opportunities through gender equality, social inclusion, and skills development.  

Dr Babatunde Omilola, Human Development division manager at the African Development Bank underscored: "This project is a key milestone in advancing a just energy transition for South Africa, prioritizing sustainable energy, job creation, gender equity, and social inclusion—ensuring the shift to a green economy benefits all, especially in Mpumalanga." 

South Africa's Just Energy Transition Jobs First project activities were discussed with one of the strategic partners UVU Africa on a female farmers project in Bushbackridge.  

Beneficiaries will receive training on sustainable and smart agriculture and receive a digital kit (tablets and data) to support their work. Suhana Bisnath Head Strategy and Product Design at UVU Africa stated: "We look forward to further collaborating with partners across sectors to ensure the ‘just' in Just Energy Transition is realised in every corner of Mpumalanga and beyond. Together, we can create a model of progress that prioritises inclusivity and innovation, building a future where no one is left behind".   

Other initiatives discussed include the creation of a Gender Desk within the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency to facilitate dialogue among women actors, mapping of women entrepreneurs, and increased collaboration among women networks in the province. AFD's mandate in South Africa supports the Just Energy Transition by addressing poverty, inequality, and the social dimensions of energy transition through a policy-based loan focused on governance, energy access, and economic diversification. Gender equality is a key priority, with AFD collaborating with the Mpumalanga Green Cluster Agency to integrate gender considerations into the SAJJOF project. 

Together, the gender workshop and the South Africa's Just Energy Transition Jobs First project reflect a commitment by the Bank and its partners to integrate gender and social inclusion into climate initiatives. These efforts align with the wider goal to foster the “just” part of the Just Energy Transition leaving no one behind especially women, children and vulnerable households.  

“We are very excited to be supporting the SAJJOF project and look forward to welcoming the rising stars of South Africa's energy transition who are showing the world how women can lead the way” said Nina Kolybashkina, Gender and Social Inclusion Lead at Climate Investment Funds. 

For more information, explore the Women-led Coal Transitions report here (https://apo-opa.co/4gca7gc). 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact: 
Sonia Borrini
Climate Change and Green Growth Department
s.borrini@afdb.org  

For more information on South Africa's Just Energy Transition Jobs First Project please contact:
Elaheebocus, Nawsheen : n.elaheebocus@afdb.org. 

Media files
African Development Bank Group (AfDB)
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Repatriated five-year-old born in Mauritian prison to return home

Location: News

Repatriated five-year-old born in Mauritian prison to return home

The Republic of Mauritius has officially handed over a five-year-old girl born to a mother jailed for drug trafficking to South African government officials.

The girl was handed over to the government of South Africa, through the Department of Social Development (DSD).

The DSD, in partnership with the South African diplomatic mission in Mauritius, has been working diligently for the past three years to bring the little girl back to her maternal family.

In an emotional handover on Thursday, the mother and daughter hugged and kissed as the minor left her mother behind at the gates of Beau Bassin Prison.

"It is painful to see her go, but I know it's for the best for her future," said her mother.

The mother also expressed her regret for placing herself in such a difficult position, where she would not be able to see her child grow within the foreseeable future, while her case is being finalised.

The mother is still awaiting trial since the time she was arrested in 2019.

READ | Government to repatriate child whose mother is incarcerated in Mauritius

As the little girl left the prison gates, all the female South Africans incarcerated at the prison there stood in a guard of honour to see the girl off as she began the journey back home.

According to the DSD, earlier in the day, the girl bid farewell to her Early Childhood Development (ECD) teacher, who expressed sadness to see the girl leave.

“It is sad to see her go, but we are also happy for her, and we understand that it is time to let her go so she can grow with her family and in her country,” said the teacher, who also revealed that the girl was very close to her own daughter and occasionally requested to go on play dates with her.

She described the child as independent and mature beyond her age, who helped her to pack up things in class and always offered assistance to the teachers.

The delegation will touch down in South Africa on Friday evening and the girl will be handed over to her grandmother, who is eagerly awaiting her arrival.

Her grandmother from the North West, said the return of the child is the greatest Christmas present for her and her family.

“The timing of her repatriation could not be more ideal as it ensures that she will be able to join us as a family and start school without delay,” the grandmother said.

Deputy Commissioner of the Mauritius Prison Service, Aubeeluck Gunneete emphasised that it is important that this repatriation process happens now, as it will allow the girl to reunite with her family and begin her schooling in South Africa just like any other child.

The girl is now the 25th child repatriated from another country.

South Africa is mandated by section 7 of the Children's Act 38 of 2005 to protect the best interests of the child.

Section 7(1)(f)(ii) of the Act mandates that the Department to ensure that a child "maintains a connection with his or her extended family, culture or tradition" - SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 12/13/2024 - 10:14

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Read moreRepatriated five-year-old born in Mauritian prison to return home

Gauteng motorists urged to exercise caution during festive season

Location: News

Gauteng motorists urged to exercise caution during festive season

Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has appealed to all motorists and road users in the province to exercise caution and understanding on the roads, to reduce accidents and fatalities during the festive season.

Diale-Tlabela’s call follows the launch of this year’s national festive season road safety campaign, under the theme: “Every day without a Road Death – South Africa 2024”.

This primarily places driver behaviour as the focus of this year’s road safety campaign.

The campaign strategy is based on four pillars, including responsible driving; pedestrian safety; enforcement and education.

Diale-Tlabela said the festive period brings increased risks to public safety on the roads due to high traffic volumes, as people travel to various destinations within the province and across the country.

“As we enter the 2024 festive season, the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport wishes to remind all public transport operators, commuters and all road users to play their part by being safe, considerate, and exercising caution while on the roads. We wish to remind all who will be travelling that road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Diale-Tlabela said.

The MEC urged all road users, including drivers, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians, to practice mutual respect and strict adherence to all warnings, rules and regulations.

She further condemned the acts of violence across all modes of public transport, including protests, strikes, shutdowns or any actions that will result in disruption of services that has a potential to adversely affect operators and commuters during this period.

“Traffic and law enforcement officials will be out in force throughout the province to ensure reckless and drunk driving is dealt with, and culprits face the full might of the law. 

"Road safety is a collective responsibility that requires all of us to play our part in appreciating that the road is a shared space, and take responsibility for our actions. Think and drive to stay alive,” Diale-Tlabela said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 11:46

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Read moreGauteng motorists urged to exercise caution during festive season