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As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming cup of coffee. Whether it’s the warmth seeping into your fingers or the rich aroma enveloping you, coffee is a winter staple for many. However, with the growing concern for environmental sustainability, our beloved takeaway coffee habit faces scrutiny. …
“We implore you to intervene,” medical experts say to Barbara Creecy
August is swiftly approaching, bringing with it Joburg’s most anticipated talks series, Future Talks, which takes place from August 1 to 4, 2024, at the Sandton Convention Centre. Here, inspiration and innovation will converge, with the Future Talks series set to ignite critical discussions and inspire groundbreaking solutions. The Future Talks stage will feature a …
Tax Season 2024 kicks off in South Africa
At least 191 000 South Africans have filed their tax returns following the opening of the filing season for provisional and non-provisional taxpayers on Monday, 15 July.
This was revealed by South African Revenue Services Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, who briefed media on Tax Season 2024 on Tuesday.
At least 183 000 of those returns were filed on SARS’ online e-filing and mobile application service, and about 7700 were filed through Taxpayer Service Centres.
“We anticipate, in total, by round about the 20th of January to have issued approximately eight million assessments for the 2024 tax year alone, and that’s besides prior year tax returns that taxpayers will submit,” he said.
Some five million of those have already been auto-assessed by the revenue service.
Auto-assessments for an expanded pool of taxpayers ran from 1 -14 July 2024.
Kieswetter said during the first two weeks of July, SARS had more than 16 million digital exchanges with taxpayers, at an average of one million users a day – peaking at about 1.9 million interactions when tax season opened on Monday.
“In total, we serviced over three million transactions across all our channels and over a million views on our website in one day. One hundred percent of taxpayers, who would have submitted their returns [on Monday], have already been assessed, 70% of those were assessed within our own five-second aspiration.
“We also received 57 000 calls and could unfortunately only service about 15 000 of these due to the length of our calls and our current limited capacity to respond to these calls. Cumulatively, from the 1st of July when auto-assessments were issued, to date, 5.5 million taxpayers have already been assessed… creating possible refunds of R17 billion.
“Of this, R10 billion has already been paid out. A further R4 billion will be paid out within the next 72 hours unless there is a specific reason why they are being withheld, he said.
Refunds that are withheld could be for the following reasons:
“We encourage taxpayers to complete these outstanding checks before enquiring about their refunds and to make sure that their details and all outstanding matters are resolved and updated and then if you are due a refund, you should have no challenge,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 07/16/2024 - 15:15
Discovery Channel’s Shark Week is airing in South Africa on Discovery Channel Africa, DStv channel 121, and this evening, Zandile Ndhlovu, also known as The Black Mermaid, stars in Monster Hammerheads: Species X at 18:30. To amplify her message of shark conservation, she is also lead an exclusive ocean excursion today at the The Aliwal …
In a groundbreaking initiative to amplify LGBTQI+ voices, the captivating podcast ‘Straight to the Point’ features the dynamic trio of Emogan Moore (35), Maxine Wild (30), and Chenal LeCap (23). Broadcasting every Monday at 6:30 PM on the GoBinge YouTube channel, the show offers a 30 to 40-minute weekly dive into the vibrant and often …
Mineware Consulting is committed to contributing to enhanced safety in the South African mining industry with innovative software solutions, built-in training initiatives, and data-driven strategies. The South African mining industry has historically been a major contributor to the country’s economy. However, it faces significant safety challenges due to its complex geological conditions and the prevalence …
Climate change means extreme events are likely to happen more often
EPWP programme exceeds target
With over 80 000 work opportunities created, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment will continue to focus on the creation of work opportunities through the implementation of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) in carrying out its mandate.
“Through a range of EPWP projects implemented by the department, the DFFE exceeded its 2023/24 EPWP target of creating 42 302 work opportunities, as the department created a total of 80 918 work opportunities,” said Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts.
Speaking at the Budget Vote of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the first in the seventh administration for the department, the Deputy Minister said these work opportunities benefited 60% women, 58% youth and 1% of persons with disabilities.
“Youth employment included the employment of graduates, enabling them to gain critical experience in line with section 24 of the Constitution.
"It is encouraging that some of these graduates were absorbed into the municipalities and other host organisations.”
The department met its target for full time equivalents (FTEs), meaning that it was able to improve the duration of employment as EPWP participants are paid in accordance with the number of days worked.
Swarts said the implementation of the Municipal Greening and Cleaning Programme through a partnership model with the municipalities created the most work opportunities.
“The partnership had the department paying for the EPWP stipends and providing the primary project management responsibilities. The municipalities provided personal protective equipment (PPE), tools of trade and medical screening.
“The Municipal Greening and Cleaning Programme contributed to the waste management service delivery through daily cleaning-up and clearing of illegal hotspots,” she said.
In this financial year, the department has prioritised the creation of 31 075 EPWP work opportunities and 22 538 full time equivalents through the implementation of the Working for Water, Working on Fire and Working for Wetlands and the Municipal Greening and Cleaning programmes.
“SANParks – one of our entities - also participates in the DFFE funded EPWP which is aimed at creating jobs targeting women, youth and people with disabilities.
“Under this programme, SANParks exceeded all targets in the previous financial year, having employed 5 150 full-time equivalents, employing 7 098 youth, 6 483 women and 198 people with disabilities.
“Over the medium term, under this programme, SANParks aims to create over 13 860 jobs targeting women, youth and people with disabilities, mostly from neighbouring communities to national parks.”
The department is implementing the National Greening Programme, which aims to coordinate national, provincial and local government initiatives and those of civil society to plant, care and maintain trees and other vegetation in urban and rural settlement areas.
“An estimated 1 177 390 trees were planted through DFFE initiatives and other stakeholders in the 2023/24 financial year. This resulted in the creation of 4062 work opportunities as it is implemented through the EPWP,” said Swarts. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Tue, 07/16/2024 - 10:44
Husqvarna is proud to partner with Liverpool Football Club, one of the most iconic football clubs on the planet. As part of the multi-year global agreement, Husqvarna will become the official groundskeeping partner of LFC, the first partnership of its kind for both parties. Since 2021, LFC has been using Husqvarna robotic mowers to maintain …
Although South Africa has the largest number of people living with HIV worldwide, strides have been made in controlling the epidemic, especially in the reduction of HIV incidence, testing, and treatment. Researchers from the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) and University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) are inching closer to finding the answer to the natural …
Residents of Wynberg were assessing the damage on Thursday morning
Pregnant woman dies as 200 shacks gutted
New Police Minister outlines priorities
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says the seventh administration will act decisively to bring the high level of crime in the country, under control.
“It is our view and understanding that tough measures may need to be taken to reduce crime where necessary,” Mchunu said, addressing the media in Pretoria on Monday on the Ministry’s priorities, following the establishment of the Government of National Unity after the General Elections.
“We are honoured and humbled to have been given the enormous responsibility of ensuring that South Africans are safe and feel safer.
“We have spent the first week in office meeting with the executive management, provincial commissioners and divisional heads of the South African Police Service. We have done this to ensure that we have a broad understanding of the portfolio, including the challenges and opportunities, so that we can map out the priorities and urgent tasks at hand,” said the Minister.
He said he had benefited from briefings from the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) and the Civilian Secretariat for the Police Service as well as various organisations and institutions within the security arena.
“The crime levels in the country are on the increase and are intolerable. We need to act decisively and bring this under control.
“The levels and type of crime differ from one province to the other. We need to take this into account as we implement the integrated National Crime Prevention Strategy,” said the Minister.
Currently, the leading crimes in the country are contact crimes such as murders and rape, as well as hijackings and kidnappings for ransom payments.
“The killing of women and children also continues to be cause for serious concern and warrants intensive action from law enforcement. Our mission is clear - our country must be safe for all citizens. People all over South Africa must be able to move around at any time without fear of marauding criminals.
“Gang violence is also on the rise, noticeably in the Western Cape. The situation must be brought under control so that children in the Cape Flats, Khayelitsha (Site C), parts of Nelson Mandela Bay and parts of Gauteng can be able to play in the streets without fear of being hit by stray bullets,” he said.
Mchunu said as the police, they take the issue of “construction mafias” in the country very seriously.
“This trend is associated with destructive activities which disrupt construction and infrastructure development which our country urgently requires.
“Genuine quests for economic transformation can be handled through the correct channels and by using existing policy prescripts, without resorting to hijacking construction sites and using extortion to source business. This matter will continue to receive priority attention,” the Minister said.
Police will prioritise the amendments to the South African Police Service Act as it is outdated, still making incorrect references to the 1993 Interim Constitution.
“It needs to be in line with modern day crime fighting and prevention demands. We will also finalise the National Policy on Policing. It must take into account provincial needs and priorities,” Mchunu said.
He said there was an urgent need to professionalise the SAPS and instill positive ethical values, patriotism and the understanding that the primary duty of a police officer is to always serve and protect the public.
“Uprooting corruption and removing corrupt police officers from SAPS will remain a top priority. Misconduct by SAPS members will not be tolerated and action will be taken.
“We want to change the negative perceptions of our police officers. People must respect police officers; have confidence in them and feel safe in their midst. Professionalism in the work of police is also part of the police protection mechanism.
“Our police officers need to work in a conducive environment. We are committed to ensuring that our police stations are well-resourced. We have to provide the necessary tools and vehicles to serve our communities effectively,” he said.
According to Mchunu, over the past two years, over 20 000 new police officers have been trained.
“We will strive to continue bolstering capacity and to enhance police training. A police officer must attend regular refresher courses to stay operationally ready. We will also strengthen some existing units within the police force,” he said.
With regard to the use of technology in the police service, Mchunu said the integration of technology in police services is crucial for enhancing the efficiency, effectiveness and overall capability of law enforcement.
“We will prioritise the roll out of new technologies to detect and deter crimes. Advanced technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, surveillance systems, and digital communication tools enable police to better predict, prevent, and respond to criminal activities.
“These tools provide officers with real-time information, improve decision-making, and facilitate faster, more accurate investigations. Technology also enhances transparency and accountability and fosters greater public trust.
“We will benchmark against other successful law enforcement agencies worldwide and endeavour to bring SAPS on par with the best in terms of technology and operational efficiency,” Mchunu said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:06
Special Tribunal has no active judges and hasn’t issued a ruling since May
JOHANNESBURG, July 8, 2024 – Schizophrenia can be a frightening experience, explains Dr Bianca Brider of Janssen South Africa Medical Affairs. The patient starts hearing, and even seeing people, things, and events that are actually not present in reality, and the disempowering aspect of it is that the patients are unable to discern the difference …
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – July 2024 – In the quest for the perfect laundry routine, the choice between a front loader and a top loader washing machine can significantly impact your household’s efficiency and convenience. Both types offer unique advantages tailored to different needs and lifestyles. Here is a detailed guide to help you decide …
Transport department, taxi industry to work together this term, says Creecy
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has committed to working with the taxi industry to ensure that the industry fulfils its role in the transport ecosystem with greater safety.
“Taxis are part of community life, and as per the National Household Travel Survey, now carry eighty 3% of those who use public transport.
“During this term, I pledge to work with the industry to ensure it takes its place in a safer, greener transport ecosystem. We will work together to decrease levels of conflict and violence, which pose a significant risk to the sector and to commuters,” the Minister said when tabling the Budget Vote of the department at Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Transport in Cape Town on Monday.
Creecy said the department will, in the short-term, continue to assist the industry to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The Taxi Relief Fund, created by the department to mitigate the negative financial effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the taxi industry, has been extended in the past year to provide further support to the industry.
“The Taxi Recapitalisation Strategy continues to deal with the scrapping of unroadworthy vehicles, but also aims to regularise and professionalise the industry by improving safety and incorporating the industry in transport planning processes,” she said.
Climate resilience
The Minister said as the department continues to “stabilise and optimise our existing transport sector”, new risks and opportunities continue to arise.
“Climate change, as we have seen over the last couple of years, poses a significant risk to our built infrastructure in general and our transport infrastructure in particular. Building the climate resilience of our ports, road and rail networks is both a necessity and a new opportunity for investment, growth, economic inclusion and job creation.
“Contributing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in all modes of transport will become a necessity once the new Climate Bill is signed into law. Our transport sector is responsible for approximately one tenth of our country’s CO2 emissions, and we will have to do our bit to achieve the NDP target of net-zero by 2050,” she said.
In this regard, the Minister said, implementing the department’s Green Transport Strategy “will be a priority” in this term.
“In this next decade, transport will also be revolutionised by an acceleration of digital technology. New technologies and new global imperatives will fundamentally alter the skills requirements of those employed in the transport sector, as well as open up new value chains for new forms of economic access, ownership and employment.
“Such innovations include operational automation and real-time tracking of shipments to assist in port management, digital signalling to modernise the management of our railway systems, the use of artificial intelligence in traffic management, and the introduction of self-driven vehicles and drones for delivery.
“The department’s Green Transport Strategy includes investing in green energy infrastructure; promoting the uptake of alternative fuels such as biogas and green hydrogen; extending the rail network to provide alternative public transport, and developing ‘green procurement guidelines’, which will promote low-carbon technologies,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 14:20
In one of the hottest collaborations at Decorex Joburg, top local interior designers are partnering with Plascon to demonstrate how colour can make or break a space. Gauteng-based designers GLE Interiors, Living Inspired Interiors and Ndibali Interior Designs are bringing fresh creative energy to the show with their Plascon Colour Design Pods. Taking to the …
Feeding your baby can be a delightful yet demanding task, especially when it comes to preparing formula. The Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced Formula Dispenser Machine is here to simplify your life, making feeding time quicker, easier, and more convenient. Available at GeeWiz, this advanced formula dispenser machine is a game-changer for parents. Let’s explore …
Smart homes are becoming increasingly popular, offering convenience, security, and energy efficiency. One of the standout products in this category is the Aqara FP2 Presence Sensor, which integrates seamlessly with various smart home systems. Available at GeeWiz, this advanced presence sensor enhances the functionality and responsiveness of your smart home setup. Let’s dive into its …
Hero's welcome for SA's tennis star
A hero's welcome awaited South African wheelchair tennis champion Kgothatso Montjane as she beamingly made her arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, on Monday morning.
Excitement, loud cheers, the flashing lights of cameras and hearty clapping was the order of the winter morning as the sportswoman emerged into the terminal, after her splendid showing at Wimbledon over the weekend.
Montjane and her Japanese partner Yui Kamiji bagged their third Grand Slam title together on Sunday.
The number one seeds defeated Dutch duo, Diede De Groot and Jiske Griffioen 6-4, 6-4, to secure the Wimbledon Ladies' Wheelchair Doubles title in London, United Kingdom.
READ | President Ramaphosa congratulates tennis star Kgothatso Montjane
She told journalists that her victory has not sunk in yet, especially after the duo was named silver finalists last year.
“I’m still digesting it - but I’m sure it will sink in. This is just a great feeling,” she told journalists as she beamed from ear to ear.
According to the newly crowned champion, the matches are gruelling and require professionalism to play at this level.
“We try to fight as a team. We wanted to win this one considering our performance last year. After that match last year, we felt we needed to give it our best. We felt we lacked strategy. So, you can imagine how badly we wanted it.
“That’s why we needed to put our differences aside and put our heads together and fight together as a team.”
Montjane had her left leg amputated at age 12 due to a congenital disorder.
She described yesterday’s win as a confidence booster as she prepares for the Paralympic Games in August in Paris.
“I feel like I really needed this. I’ve been having ups and downs throughout the year and my ranking going through ups and downs, and not being sure where I am.
“This one really gives me a great feeling that I can go to the Games to deliver,” she said.
Montjane, who first picked up the racket at the age of 19, thanked her team for motivating her.
“I’m having so many blows and they’re the ones who try to keep me motivated so that I keep my head down and continue to work hard. I keep saying I’m winning the wrong Slam but it’s still a great achievement. The plan is still to win the Singles title.”
The 38-year-old believes that she is closer to winning the singles and that all she needs to do is to put her head down and keep working hard towards her goal.
In 2018, the athlete became the first black South African woman to compete at Wimbledon, and she reached the championships' singles and doubles finals for the first time.
“To the young ones, they must keep believing and working hard. Their dreams are valid and they must believe in the world of possibility. Their turn will come,” Montjane said.
Limpopo's MEC for Sport, Arts, and Culture, Jerry Maseko, was also present at the airport to welcome Montjane.
The MEC told SAnews that he and the provincial leadership were excited and proud of the athlete.
“The Premier and I were both excited. She directed me to come receive this jewel, this diamond from Limpopo, from a rural township of Seshego.”
READ | Tennis superstar Kgothatso Montjane inspires hope
Maseko took the time to express gratitude to the star for her dedication and the consistency she demonstrated from the grassroots to the professional level.
He also paid tribute to Montjane’s many sponsors and said he was rallying the private sector to construct a tennis court that will be named after the champ.
“It’s important to us to honour the living legend. We shouldn’t honour people when they have passed on. We must appreciate them while they’re still alive.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 14:44
In the ever-evolving world of automobiles, one brand has steadily carved a niche for itself through innovation, style, and reliability. Chery, a name that resonates with a growing number of car enthusiasts, continues to impress with its line of vehicles that cater to diverse needs and preferences. This article delves into the exceptional offerings of …
New model forms the basis for an urgent recommendation to change African Penguin’s conservation status from endangered to critically endangered