Why Do Potholes Occur?
Poor road construction, inadequate drainage and insufficient maintenance are the main causes
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Deputy President hopes SA’s G20 Presidency will make the world more equitable
Deputy President hopes SA's G20 Presidency will make the world more equitable
Deputy President Paul Mashatile says he hopes that South Africa’s G20 Presidency will contribute towards building a world that is more equitable, resilient and sustainable.
“It is South Africa’s hope that, once completed, looking back at our G20 Presidency will showcase the amplified voice, perspectives and leadership of the developing world in tackling some of these most pressing global challenges,” he said on Wednesday at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) University in London.
The country’s second-in-command is in the United Kingdom for the second leg of his working visit to improve trade and investment relations between the two nations and woo investors.
READ | UK investors encouraged to establish their business operations in SA
Preparations are underway for South Africa’s G20 Presidency and hosting the summit in 2025. South Africa is expected to take over the chair of the G20 from 1 December this year from Brazil.
Meanwhile, the Deputy President said the Presidency will focus on the developmental agenda and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The worrisome lack of progress in enhancing sustainable development globally underscores the need for global solidarity in addressing issues such as growing inequality; rising hunger; rising extreme poverty; the current global economy; climate and energy crises; the debt crisis facing developing countries, and illicit financial flows, all of which impede developing countries’ access to sustainable development.”
He said the country will also highlight the vital minerals issue and strive to bring attention to it during South Africa’s Presidency.
READ | Critical minerals sector key to driving global economic growth
“We will concentrate on utilising natural resources, tackling beneficiation challenges, mobilising domestic resources, developing a critical mineral strategy, managing interdependent and diverse supply chains, and leveraging natural capital,” he said.
According to the Deputy President, critical minerals are essential for the Just Energy Transition and the green economy.
“Therefore, the issue remains relevant, particularly as it relates to the type of investment that is required to address these issues.”
In addition, he said South Africa will seek to leverage its Presidency to advance the global reform agenda, particularly the transformation of the global financial architecture and reform of the International Monetary Fund, World Bank and the Multilateral Development Banks.
He announced that processes are presently in progress to establish South Africa’s priorities and deliverables for its 2025 G20 Presidency.
“While South Africa continues to prepare for its G20 Presidency, move towards concrete deliverables, and finalise its agenda, what I have shared here today reflects some of the most pertinent issues that will inform and drive our agenda forward.”
Climate change
Meanwhile, the Deputy President has described climate change as a problem that demands urgent and consistent action from every individual, organisation and government.
“The government has committed to using the insights and recommendations from the State of Climate Action in South Africa Report to inform the scaling up of the country’s actions to respond to climate change,” he said.
The Deputy President told the gathering that South Africa is actively adopting sustainable practices to reduce its carbon footprint.
“Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time and poses a significant threat to humanity and the planet,” he told the attendees.
Shifting his focus to international peace, he called on the global community to unite to address this issue with utmost seriousness and commitment.
“We also call upon the world to work for peace, in particular in the Middle East. We must ensure a ceasefire so that the people of Palestine can rebuild and establish a State, side by side with Israel.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 13:02
246 views
Leaders in water sector challenged to act against pollution
Leaders in water sector challenged to act against pollution
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo has challenged leaders in the water sector to act decisively against the pollution and contamination of the country’s water resources.
Seitlholo made the call on Thursday at the launch of the Vaal River Anti-Pollution Forum, which is aimed at addressing long-standing pollution affecting water quality in the Vaal River.
READ | Forum to address Vaal River pollution
Launched in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng, the Vaal River Anti-Pollution Forum is aimed at coordinating, improving and integrating efforts for the management of the Vaal River water quality, in line with its determined resource quality objectives.
The forum will also provide high-level guidance aimed at ensuring the protection of the Vaal River, as well as identifying remedial actions to mitigate the impact of pollution.
Seitlholo warned that the pollution of water resources remains one of the greatest risks that faces the country’s water security and sustainability.
He challenged the leaders to decide if they will meet the moment to protect the country’s precious resource for future generations.
“Indeed colleagues, we must decide here today whether we will be the ones who will be remembered for directing the course of every river and every stream to a sustainable future of access to clean and safe water for all. I am here to sound the alarm.
“Like the captain of a ship on a rough course at sea, I am here to sound the blasts. I am here to say, this is our moment to act and act decisively against the pollution and contamination of our water resources or we will face a disaster of titanic proportions,” Seitlholo said.
Highlighting the significance of the Vaal River, which is the second largest river in South Africa after the Orange River -- into which it flows -- Seitlholo said the 1 200 kilometre-long river crosses a number of provinces, including Mpumalanga (where it originates near Ermelo), Gauteng, the Free State and the Northern Cape.
“Large dams, including Grootdraai, the Vaal and Bloemhof dams are constructed on the river to ensure a steady water supply to citizens of these provinces and the industries dependent on water from the river. The Vaal Dam is the most important dam in the country because of its role as the primary supplier of water to the economic heartland of South Africa -- Gauteng,” Seitlholo said.
The Deputy Minister said the Vaal River is also vital for the life of the country’s economy, and millions of jobs and livelihoods.
“If we were to lose this river system to unmitigated and rampant pollution, we would lose millions of livelihoods and lives. I am therefore sounding the alarm... This is a crucial moment for the future of this precious water resource.
The Vaal River, due to its extent and the development sectors it supports, receives a huge volume of pollution from urban developments, both formal and informal settlements, wastewater treatment works, runoff from mines, agriculture and discharge of treated wastewater from industries,” Seitlholo said.
He said the forum must play a crucial role in ensuring that stakeholders are constantly around the table to chart solutions towards fighting pollution of the Vaal River.
In April this year, Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu pronounced on the establishment of the forum, whose objectives are to coordinate, improve and integrate efforts for the management of the Vaal River quality.
This will be done through addressing risks elevated by the 16 Catchment Management Forums (CMFs).
Currently, there are 16 sub-catchment forums, including 10 in the Upper Vaal, four in the Middle Vaal and two in the Lower Vaal.
Seitlholo explained that the forum will escalate systemic challenges that cannot be resolved within these sub-catchments.
“The forum, through task teams, will investigate and make recommendations on short-, medium- and long-term actions that must be taken to improve the performance of the smaller forums, and to elevate and effect any systematic actions to improve the water quality status in the Vaal, which is linked to the Catchment Management Strategy for the Vaal-Orange Catchment Management Agency (VOCMA) and the larger national water quality strategy to synchronise role player actions.
“Through regular reporting, the chair and vice chair of VOCMA will report on activities to also ensure effective feedback linkages between the overarching forum, the sub-catchment forums, the VOCMA (as local implementer) and the DWS, as the regulator,” Seitlholo said.
Seitlholo said the causes of water quality deterioration need to be addressed in collaboration with the sectors that benefit from the river.
He further acknowledged the role played by the Departments of Human Settlements, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Agriculture, and Environmental Affairs in land use management.
“The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environmental Affairs... also plays a role in the management of biodiversity and the control of alien invasive species. The departments and the forum can do everything in their power to turn the tide against water pollution,” Seitlholo said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 13:29
215 views
Three of Four Shosholoza Meyl Train Routes Halted Indefinitely
#UniteBehind believes problems with long distance locomotives is due to corruption at PRASA over the years.
Proteas Women Carry a Piece of Home With Them During the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup 2024
JOHANNESBURG: As the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup 2024 kicks off in the United Arab Emirates, the Proteas Women are...
Government ”deepening conversation” on draft IRP 2023
Government ''deepening conversation'' on draft IRP 2023
Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says government is “deepening the conversation” on the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2023).
The Minister was speaking during the 2024 Windaba Conference, being held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, on Thursday.
“We are doing a review. [IRP 2023] had gone out for public consultation; received 4000 submissions; 250 of those have been substantive - and I said to the team, we will sit with those who have made substantive contributions so we are not re-opening the window of public consultation. We are simply deepening that conversation because some of the submissions raise issues around the assumptions and the modelling and therefore how you arrive at the aggregate of the [energy] mix.
“It is in our interest as government to listen to the sector and the experts…because beyond these ones who adopt it, it’s an IRP that represents the country,” he said.
The minister added that those engagements seek to address some “quantitative expressions” in some aspects of the plan.
Turning to the renewable energy sector, Dr Ramokgopa emphasised that the department is engaging with all stakeholders in the energy sector, to find solutions for South Africa’s energy ambitions.
“It is our intention to ensure that we scale up the renewable energy share of the energy mix in the country. We have had conversations with the nuclear sector. We have had conversations with the gas players. We have had conversations with those in the renewable energy space [and] we will have conversations with those in the coal space.
“It’s important that we move away from an idea that the one solution is better than the other,” he said.
With regard to South Africa’s commitment to lowering carbon emissions, the Minister said the country wants to “green the South African economy”.
However, that transition must take into cognisance the effects it may have on certain sectors.
“There’s the socio-economic elements. So, as we do this, we’re looking to broaden the floor of industrialisation - reskilling people; skilling people so that there’s justice in the Just Transition.
“You don’t want to decimate an economy because you want to transition; put people into conditions of abject poverty because they are unemployed as a result of the displacement of certain technologies being replaced by others and not taking account of what are the implications from a socio-economic point of view,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 11:26
56 views
Ngcobo’s Public Swimming Pool Has Been Empty for Four Years
Ngcobo residents fear the pool will be vandalised and never reopen
SA to host Conference of Ombuds Institutions for Armed Forces
SA to host Conference of Ombuds Institutions for Armed Forces
South Africa is set to host the Seventieth International Conference of Ombuds Institutions for the Armed Forces (17ICOAF) conference next year.
South African Military Ombud Lieutenant General (Retired) Vusumuzi Masondo said the ICOAF gathers representatives of ombuds institutions for the armed forces from around the world, which exist in various names and models.
To date, representatives of ombuds institutions of over 50 states have participated in the ICOAF initiative.
This as Masondo and a delegation attended the 16ICOAF which took place in Berlin, Germany, from 30 September to 02 October.
The Military Ombud addressed the conference on how ombuds institutions can uphold and enhance the various systems of care and support for veterans, especially focusing on supporting veterans with physical and mental health concerns.
Masondo shared with his peers that veterans who served in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) since 1994 have access to the necessary physical and mental health care they may require.
However, the Office has identified that a great number of military veterans who fought for South Africa’s liberation are excluded from the mandate in law and have little if not limited physical and mental health care support.
“A lesson for us involved in furthering the democratic order would be to remember to include all soldiers involved in such a struggle in future veterans’ dispensations. I found it serving the purpose of the Office to forge strong and reliable relations with stakeholders impacting veterans' health,” said Masondo.
In sharing best practices and experiences, Masondo presented several case studies the Office dealt with regarding military veterans’ benefits.
In one case, the fund administrator decided to terminate the membership of a veteran because he failed to pay subscription fees. The member only learned about the membership termination after a claim he submitted was rejected by the fund administrators.
The member approached the Office to complain, and the Office assumed jurisdiction on the matter.
Upon investigation, the Office ascertained that prior communication by the fund did not reach the complainant, as he had changed cell phone numbers and no trace of informing the complainant was found.
The fund ultimately reinstated his membership and reimbursed him.
Masondo mentioned that the Office reaches out to veterans through the Outreach Programme that helps the Office to note the increase in complaints trends from veterans relating to health services post their careers as soldiers.
The objectives of the 16ICOAF were to raise awareness, facilitate and foster peer-to-peer exchange of knowledge and best practices. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 09:33
83 views
Shamsi Opts Out of National Contract
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Proteas Men’s spinner Tabraiz Shamsi have today jointly announced that the 34-year-old has decided...
Citrusdal Farmers Devastated by Two Years of Floods
But they are determined to start over and revive their vegetable gardens yet again
Police rescue hijacked, kidnapped victim in Krugersdorp
Police rescue hijacked, kidnapped victim in Krugersdorp
An alleged kidnapped victim was rescued and three suspects were arrested in Krugersdorp on Tuesday.
According to police, two Sergeants were driving from Leratong Hospital when they noticed a suspicious looking vehicle.
“Upon trying to stop the vehicle, one of the occupants pointed a firearm at them and the members shot back, resulting in the suspects stopping their vehicle. When searched, the police found two suspects and one man with his hands tied to the back.
“It was later established that the victim was hijacked and kidnapped in the morning at Centurion,” said the police.
Preliminary investigations then led the police to a third suspect in Naledi who was found in possession of the victim's hijacked bakkie.
The victim was rescued, and all three suspects were arrested and are expected to appear before court soon on charges of attempted murder, kidnapping, hijacking and possession of an unlicensed firearm. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 10/02/2024 - 12:13
269 views
Call for no alcohol consumption this Social Development Month
Call for no alcohol consumption this Social Development Month
With the country observing Social Development month, Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe is appealing all South Africans not to consume alcohol or sell alcohol to children during the month of October.
The call comes as Tolashe and MEC for Social Development in KwaZulu-Natal, Cynthia Mbali Shinga, will be commemorating World No Alcohol Day on Wednesday, 3 October.
The commemoration will take place at Sweetwaters, uMgungundlovu District, Umsunduzi Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.
The two leaders will use the day to highlight the harms caused by alcohol abuse which affects individuals, families and communities.
The event will be held in partnership with Kwa Zulu Natal Provincial Department of Social Development, SAAPA (Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance) and the Central Drug Authority (CDA).
The day aims to highlight the effects of alcohol abuse, binge drinking amongst South African youth and the negative effect of selling alcohol to children.
World No Alcohol Day was proposed by India during the World Health Assembly in Geneva in 2008, where 193 World Health Organization (WHO) members signed a resolution to reduce alcohol-related harms.
This year’s commemoration will be held under the theme: “Say No to alcohol and selling alcohol to minors is a crime”.
The theme seeks to raise awareness about the risks associated with alcohol misuse and abuse, and the dangers of selling alcohol to minors which can lead to underage and binge drinking.
Sweetwaters was identified as the place to host the event given its high rate of alcohol abuse, crime and teenage pregnancy.
This community also experienced a tragedy last year when 12 young people abusing alcohol and drugs were burned to death.
The Minister will use this day as one of the targeted outreach programmes during DSD Month, which is held under the theme: “30 years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth: Towards Reigniting the role of the family”.
South Africa’s alcohol consumption
The department highlighted that alcohol is the most misused legal drug in South Africa, and this has a negative impact on the fabric of many communities, especially children and young people.
South Africa has one of the highest rates of alcohol consumption globally with alcohol consumption per capita in the country having risen over the last 10 years.
The department further highlighted that alcohol use plays a role in about half of all non-natural deaths. It is involved in 75% of homicide cases; 60% of automobile accidents; and 24% of vehicle deaths and injuries.
Minister Tolashe said alcohol is the third-largest contributor to death and disability after unsafe sex/sexually transmitted infections and interpersonal violence, both of which are themselves influenced by alcohol consumption as alcohol affects sexual and violent behaviour.
“Alcohol use has been recognised as a major contributor to the global burden of disease, with an even greater detrimental effect in low- and middle-income countries and people living in poverty. In total, more than 13 million disability-adjusted life years, or 7% of the total disease burden in South Africa, is attributed to alcohol.”
She said young people aged 15 to 29 have the greatest burden of disease attributable to alcohol use.
Although, men generally use and abuse alcohol more frequently and experience a greater burden of disease than women, a significant proportion of young women in South Africa are also using alcohol.
Women in disadvantaged communities with comparable alcohol use to men are significantly less likely to obtain treatment. Alcohol use in young women is associated with high rates of multiple comorbidities including risky sexual practices, poor adherence to HIV medications, depression, and intimate partner violence (IPV).
Tolashe cautioned that alcohol use among parents /care givers can have long-standing negative effects on their children and their ability to thrive given their homes are often less organised, routines are more chaotic and maternal adherence to health regimens suffer.
“Alcohol use in young women, results in many children in South Africa born with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) which could lead to damage to the fetus among pregnant women. It is for this reason that during September, which is known as FASD (Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) month, the Department of Social Development conducted awareness campaigns in provinces highlighting the dangers of drinking while pregnant,” the Minister said.
Alcohol widely used among young people
Data from the 2016 South African National Demographic and Health Survey has found that at least one in every four young people had consumed alcohol by the ages of 15–19.
“This is the reason the department, towards the commemoration of World No Alcohol Day is having Youth Dialogues to highlight the dangers of binge drinking and that alcohol should not be sold to minors,” the Minister said.
South Africa witnessed a tragic incident in Scenery Park, in East London, where 21 young lives were lost at the Enyobeni Tavern.
The loss of lives in Scenery Park demonstrated the risks children are exposed to, exacerbated by the triple challenges of poverty, and unemployment as well as broken family structures, poor parenting, poor morale in communities and a lack of community forums/structures to actively implore preventative measures to protect children from such occurrences.
Coupled with this is the limited implementation and monitoring of government policies that govern access to alcohol to children under 18, and licensing of establishments, said the Minister. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 10/02/2024 - 13:12
364 views
Smart solutions secures PRASA infrastructure
Smart solutions secures PRASA infrastructure
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has employed a number of smart solutions to secure their infrastructure with a goal of returning to their pre-COVID-19 pandemic level of 600 million annual passengers.
Addressing the Smart Mobility Africa Summit in Johannesburg, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said in order to make sure that no further theft or vandalism occurs on their lines, PRASA has employed a variety of digital solutions to protect its infrastructure as well as its passengers.
“PRASA and Huawei have partnered to employ an intelligent e-guarding perimeter system which uses artificial intelligence to alert a central control centre when there are security breaches or incidents occurring within the system.
“This includes a seismic activity tracker which monitors any digging that occurs within the perimeter of rail depots. This means that any attempts at cable theft or similar infrastructure damage is dealt with proactively rather than reactively,” the Minister said.
Thirty-one of PRASA’s 40 priority lines have re-entered into service after a period of theft and vandalism, with re-signalling of these lines an ongoing project.
“The re-signalling of these lines is a critical undertaking as it ensures the location, the availability and reliability of train services,” Creecy said.
“The use of new technologies in our economy cannot only be limited to mass infrastructure projects and macroeconomic policy. Smart systems need to be used in terms of service delivery to improve the lives of our citizens.
“This can be done in a variety of ways, whether in terms of e-permitting and licensing for transport operators, fully digitising driver’s license testing and vehicle registration, automating and digitising truck weighbridges, and using real-time monitoring of our roads network to avoid congestion and road accidents.
“New technologies can also be used to enhance the security of our communities through CCTV surveillance of our public areas and the use of drone technology to effectively monitor our borders, ensuring the safety of travellers and stopping cross-border illicit trade,” said Creecy.
Smart technology can also be used for integrated transport and logistics planning.
“Transnet has embraced smart systems through a number of measures and aims to harness this technology to further streamline logistics processes.
“Last year, the entity relaunched its integrated Port Management System (IPMS) as part of its digital transformation strategy. The IPMS is a digital vessel management system which allows real-time access to operational information in order to help manage and track freight within the Transnet system. IPMS users are able to make online service requests and see booking slots, in order to avoid over-booking,” the Minister said.
She emphasised the importance of taking advantage of the new technologies and processes available in order to maximise opportunities for economic growth and adequately meet government’s priorities. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 10/02/2024 - 14:33
406 views
More Than 17 Million People Applied for the R370 Grant in September
Most applicants have never had a job
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality receives water conservation boost
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality receives water conservation boost
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor, Gary van Niekerk, has hailed the launch of a R68 million water treatment plant at Orion Engineered Carbons South Africa as a major boost for water conservation.
Based in Deal Party, Gqeberha, the only carbon Black producer in Sub-Saharan Africa, will now pump treated wastewater from the neighbouring Fishwater Flats Wastewater treatment plant and treat it onsite to meet its production standards for non-drinking water use.
Van Niekerk said the launch is a testimony of what the city is capable of when it works closely with big business.
"These symbiotic relationships can be in the interest of the common good and not just the bottom lines of the business community. Thank you to the international and local management of Orion South Africa for making today possible.
"It is truly a trendsetting step that will hopefully encourage other major businesses to follow in their footsteps. Thank you for the vote of confidence in our city. We truly appreciate your investment,” Van Niekerk said.
The usage of treated wastewater at its production plant in Deal Party, frees up drinking water that will no longer be used by the company and translates to a long-term financial benefit as treated wastewater is cheaper while also contributing towards the preservation of precious drinking water.
Orion Chief Director, Corning Painter said the investment is meaningful since it contributes to water conservation in a water-scarce area.
“While several companies use treated wastewater from Fishwater Flats for various applications, Orion South Africa is one of the first to use large volumes of wastewater for the purpose of producing carbon black,” Painter said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 10/02/2024 - 15:29
106 views
Thousands of Birds Rescued by West Coast Owl Orphanage
The birds of prey rehabilitation centre in Velddrif has gone from strength to strength but challenges remain
Proteas Men’s Squad Announced for Bangladesh Test Tour
JOHANNESBURG: Test head coach Shukri Conrad has today announced a strong 15-player squad for the two-match series against Bangladesh in October....
One Teacher, No Toilets
Learners at Gcina Senior Primary in KwaGcina, Cofimvaba relieve themselves on an open field during the school day
Official Inaugural Board Meeting of the SADC Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre
In a joint effort with the SADC Secretariat, AU-IBAR is strengthening Regional Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance Systems for the Conservation and Protection of Aquatic Biodiversity and Environmental Management in the SADC region. Through the Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity Project, with funding from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, support was provided for the first meeting of the SADC MCSCC Board of Directors in Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa. The meeting, including a preparatory session, was held from 23-27 September 2024.
Established in April 2023, the Regional Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre (RMCSCC) is quickly becoming renowned for its vital role in promoting regional collaboration and advancement in the battle against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fisheries (IUU). While meeting, the Board's focus was on incorporating an annual work plan to guide the center's activities. Improving efficiency, encouraging innovation, and synchronising activities across diverse locations are the goals of this consolidation.
The meeting also addressed various subjects, including the introduction of new members, the ratification of the inaugural meeting's record, the report from the MCSCC Secretariat/IPMU, and discussions on reporting requirements. Governance issues, such as the draft governance manual, remuneration, and the draft TORs for the BoD, were also covered. Additionally, the draft Annual Work Plan and Budget, position descriptions, salary structure, and organisational structure were discussed, including commitments from the Chairperson of the MCSCC and partners to provide future support.
The consolidated work plan, which was approved by the Board of Directors, has a strong emphasis on the use of innovative technologies to address Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) challenges in the region. Some of the key highlights of the workplan included an emphasis on the importance of improved collaboration frameworks among member states in order to share best practices and achieve collective development and impact. In addition, through customised seminars, training programs, and knowledge exchange platforms, capacity development continues to be a top priority. The strategy encompasses robust resource mobilisation initiatives, such as partnerships with private sector entities, international organisations, and local administrations. Furthermore, the workplan points to the RMCSCC employing a comprehensive communications strategy to increase awareness of its mission and activities throughout the region. This strategy includes partnerships with local media, regional and international outreach programs, and social media to guarantee widespread recognition and support.
The development of a unified and strategic work plan that aligns member states towards common objectives and best practices is one of the key outcomes of the Board's meeting. Additionally, the meeting served as a forum for stakeholders and directors to offer feedback and enhance operational policy documents. It facilitated the exchange of information among stakeholders to improve the mobilisation of resources for the MCSCC, thereby bolstering its leadership in regional cooperation and development in the fight against IUU fishing. Overall, partnerships were established to facilitate synergies in Monitoring Control and Surveillance initiatives throughout the SADC region.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR).
Protesters Block West Rand Roads, Demanding Schools, Clinic and a Police Station
Residents of Fleurhof housing development say they are being ignored
Citizens encouraged to participate in National Science Week
Citizens encouraged to participate in National Science Week
The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has urged South Africans to participate in National Science Week (NSW) activities.
This year’s theme is “Living in a high-tech world: Should we be concerned?” and it aims to inspire young people and involve the public in understanding the importance of science in addressing societal concerns.
The National Science Week activities across South Africa kickstarted on Monday, 30 September, and will wrap up on Saturday, 5 October 2024.
A flagship initiative of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), National Science Week is a platform for schools, universities, research institutions and community organisations to participate in a range of interactive events, exhibitions and seminars countrywide.
The Minister officially opened the annual science engagement initiative in Bloemfontein on Saturday. Almost 1 500 learners attended the launch event at the Central University of Technology, which included a science, technology and innovation (STI) exhibition.
In his opening address at the launch, Nzimande said South Africa needs to foster a culture of using STI in the country to drive economic growth and respond to issues such as sustainable development and social inequality.
He said this year’s theme responds to the highly technology-driven world in which the country finds itself.
Through this theme, he said, “We seek to encourage a culture of critical conversations among ordinary people and especially our youth about the value of science to society”.
According to Nzimande, the country has made commendable progress since 1994 in increasing the numbers of black and women scientists.
“There is, of course, still more work that needs to be done in this regard, but we cannot deny the progress that has been made over the past 30 years.”
The Minister reminded the learners in the audience that they have more opportunities today than their grandparents who grew up during the dark days of apartheid when Black people were told they did not need mathematics and science.
“My message to all the learners here today is that you were born into a democratic order, for which your grandparents fought. Unlike your grandparents, you have available to you many opportunities to develop yourselves.”
The Minister urged the young people to make use of the opportunities that are available to them.
“Most importantly, we expect you to take up the various careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation (STEMI) so that we can produce the critical skills we need to deal with such things as poverty, inequality, pandemics and the impact of climate change.”
The Minister highlighted the stellar achievement of a Grade 10 learner, Munei Netsharotha, from Tshivhase Secondary School in Limpopo, who constructed a hydrogen-fuelled vehicle.
The Minister said Netsharotha’s invention is well aligned with the hydrogen economy, which is one of the department’s priorities.
Other brilliant innovators included mechatronics apprentice, Hlompho Malehodi, who spoke about her career.
Malehodi studied electrical engineering at a technical vocational education and training college and recently won a gold medal in the South African leg of the WorldSkills Competition.
She became the first Black woman in mechatronics to represent South Africa in the international WorldSkills Competition in Lyon, France.
The public is encouraged to participate in the activities in their communities and to follow the event on social media using the hashtag #NSW2024 for live updates and information and visit https://www.saasta.ac.za/programmes/focus-weeks/national-science-week/. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 10/01/2024 - 12:15
394 views
Weather Service warns of severe weather conditions
Weather Service warns of severe weather conditions
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has encouraged the public to remain vigilant as the upcoming months of October and November could be affected by heatwaves, severe storms and the possibility of damaging winds.
Addressing a media briefing on Tuesday in Pretoria, SAWS Senior Manager: Disaster Risk Management, Rudzani Malala, said the highveld region, which encompasses the northern Free State, Gauteng and the eastern highveld of Mpumalanga, is well known to be associated with severe storms and the possibility of damaging winds.
“Moreover, given the expectation of a relatively hot summer over much of the country, communities should also be mindful of the likelihood of sustained spells of hot, dry weather, as well as the possibility of heatwaves. During such events, the aged, infirm, as well as infants and toddlers are particularly susceptible to dehydration.
“The SAWS therefore strongly recommends that everyone take care to stay hydrated and to support and assist the elderly and small children at such times. It is an unfortunate but well-documented reality that heatwaves often lead to numerous fatalities, if no mitigative steps are taken,” Malala said.
He explained that South Africa experiences varying weather conditions in different seasons, due to its unique geographical location and set up.
“The two distinct oceans surrounding the country, i.e. the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, play a significant role that influences the typical weather conditions that we experience from season to season.
“The uniqueness of South Africa is such that at one end of the country, the public may experience extreme cold temperatures, whilst at the other end, communities may experience hot temperatures,” Malala said.
During the recent onset of this year’s 2024 spring, many South Africans experienced very hot conditions, with some parts experiencing heatwave conditions. However, the onset of a cold frontal system and a cut-off low system changed everything,” he said.
Snow events
Malala said the extremely cold conditions and snow event of 19 - 22 September 2024, that wreaked havoc on roads between the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape were accurately predicted by the Weather Service.
SAWS also issued a preemptive media release on the event of the past weekend, which warned of a drop in temperature and light snow conditions.
At the time, SAWS noted that the system was significantly different from the previous snow event, hence its impact was not as significant as the snow event of 19 – 22 September 2024.
“Snow in later winter and early spring is not unusual or rare at all. In fact, the more intense, extreme snow systems tend to affect southern Africa in very late winter, especially over the eastern provinces. We have even had snow in Johannesburg as late as October 2011.
“Snow is a phenomenon not restricted to winter months. On rare occasions (three times in the past century), snow has occurred on New Year’s Day in KwaZulu-Natal's Drakensburg [region],” Malala said.
In the study of Stander et al. 2016, snow events over South Africa during the period of 1981 to 2011 were investigated.
“In this study, 60 significant snow events were identified, with strong seasonality in the frequency of occurrence of these snow events. These events occurred from March (just more than 5%), through to October (less than 5%).
“The months of June and July had the highest frequency of significant snow events (25% and about 35% respectively), whilst August accounts for just less than 20% and September just less than 15% of significant snow events,” SAWS Lead Scientist, Dr Christien Engelbrecht, said.
From the historical view of the frequency of occurrence of significant snowfall events, Engelbrecht said it can be seen that snowfall in the month of September is not rare.
“[The] 19 - 21 September 2008 heavy snowfall necessitated roads to be closed in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. Significant snow events have occurred in the month of October, although not frequently,” she said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 10/01/2024 - 12:19
6429 views
Forum to address Vaal River pollution
Forum to address Vaal River pollution
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seitlholo, is set to launch the Vaal River Anti-Pollution Forum, which is aimed at addressing long-standing pollution affecting water quality in the Vaal River.
The Vaal River Anti-Pollution Forum, to be launched on Thursday, will be a non-statutory forum, including various stakeholders with a particular focus on stakeholders that are directly affected by the declining water quality of the Vaal River from the Upper, Middle and Lower Vaal.
The chairperson of the forum will be an independent candidate, to be appointed by the Water and Sanitation Minister, who has no personal interest, except to see an improvement of the Vaal River water quality.
Seitlholo highlighted that the main objective of the Anti-Pollution Forum will be to co-ordinate, improve, and integrate efforts for the management of the Vaal River quality, in line with its determined resource quality objectives.
“The forum will also provide high-level guidance aimed at ensuring the protection of the Vaal River as well as identifying remedial actions to mitigate the impact of pollution as a result of water-use sectors such as mines, agriculture and wastewater works, among others,” Seitlholo said.
The duties assigned to the forum members include:
• The co-ordination and support of awareness building initiatives regarding water quality management in the Vaal River catchment.
• Ensuring adequate stakeholder participation in the forum processes.
• Investigating and recommending innovative and best applicable technologies to deal with water pollution.
• Enhancing collaboration with various institutions to improve the quality of the Vaal River.
• Providing support to the existing catchment forums in the Vaal River.
• Publishing reports on an annual basis to track the performance and implementation of recommendations and activities of the forum.
Seitlholo noted that the Vaal River is one of the largest rivers in South Africa and a popular tourist destination that is becoming increasingly contaminated with pollution from mining, industries, wastewater works, agriculture and other sources.
He said the establishment of the forum seeks to redeem the river to its former healthy standing of the past.
Seitlholo, who will be leading the anti-pollution drive across the country on behalf of the department, has since committed to ensuring that through the forum, polluters are taken to task and are held accountable for their actions.
Seitlholo reiterated that South Africa is a water-scarce country, which cannot continue to "treat people who do not respect this precious resource with kid gloves".
“Through the forum, we want to ensure that transgressors are brought to book so that they account for their crimes. Any person or entity that continues to pollute water sources will face the full might of the law,” Seitlholo said.
The Deputy Minister said the department will create a register with the names of polluters in the country.
He said the database will be used to keep a record of all polluters in the country, as well as their transgressions and actions taken against them.
“The National Polluters' Register will assist us to bring attention and pressure to polluters, with the hope that it brings change in their behaviour. The register will then be placed on the departmental website, where members of the public will be able to access it,” Seitlholo said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/01/2024 - 12:34
301 views
BMA confirms the arrest of one of their own
BMA confirms the arrest of one of their own
The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, has confirmed the immediate suspension of one of its officials following her arrest for being in possession of cash and six passports belonging to foreign nationals.
The incident occurred at the Beitbridge port of entry, where the official was on duty.
The 52-year-old female Immigration Officer was arrested with six suspected illegal immigrants by the South African Police Service (SAPS) members during a sting operation on Sunday morning.
She was in possession of R3 700.00, which she could not account for and six passports belonging to travellers, who were in a bus arriving from Malawi.
The travellers were waiting to be processed at the Beitbridge port of entry. The suspects are in custody and the matter has been referred for further investigation.
“As the Border Management Authority, we have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of corruption or unethical conduct. Our mandate is to ensure that the country’s ports of entry are managed with the highest levels of integrity and professionalism.
“The actions of one individual will not be allowed to compromise the credibility and reputation of the BMA brand and we hope for more arrests on this matter,” Masiapato said.
The official in question is placed on precautionary suspension to allow for a thorough investigation into the matter.
The BMA said it takes these allegations very seriously and will work closely with SAPS to ensure that justice is served.
“The BMA remains committed to promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability within our ranks. Any behaviour that undermines these principles will be dealt with swiftly and in accordance with the law.
“We assure the public that this matter is being treated with the utmost urgency, and appropriate action will be taken once the investigation is concluded.
“We are committed to upholding the integrity of our operations and maintaining public trust in our mandate of securing our borders for development.
“The Border Management Authority commends the outstanding efforts of law enforcement operations at the ports of entry, whose vigilance and dedication play a critical role in safeguarding our nation's borders.
“Their contributions are vital to the success of our mission, and we continue to support their invaluable service to the nation. The BMA continues to deliver on its mission of safeguarding the 71 ports of entry, and ensuring the smooth and legitimate movement of people and goods,” said Masiapato. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 10/01/2024 - 12:41
343 views