Workers march against looming retrenchments at Sibanye-Stillwater
Unions call for resignation of top management and the CEO Neal Froneman
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Patel to preside over launch of MEDTECH
Patel to preside over launch of MEDTECH
Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) Minister Ebrahim Patel is today presiding over the launch of the Medical Technology (MEDTECH) Master Plan by industry stakeholders at the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) in Sandton.
The MEDTECH Master Plan aims to provide guidance for the public and private sectors to dedicate resources and time in strengthening the sector in order to place it on a growth trajectory.
This process will involve developing agreements on areas for intervention, collaboration, and commitments for ongoing development and investment.
One of the objectives of the plan is to grow a competitive medical technology industry over the next three years, with special focus on the development of small to medium enterprises that will eventually supply domestic and international markets.
The MEDTECH industry in South Africa has been identified as a potentially important contributor to economic growth and employment, whilst simultaneously enabling an improvement in health provision and quality of life for the South African population.
The industry is diverse, using various materials to produce a variety of products such as metals (titanium-based implants), chemicals (disinfectants), textiles (bandages and dressings), plastics (catheters, IV administration sets), wood (tongue depressors) and chemicals/minerals/plants that go into the manufacture of wound products.
The industry gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic as South African manufacturers tooled up to meet the growing need for medical devices.
South Africa is one of the largest MEDTECH markets across Africa and the Middle East, estimated at R21 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to R29.6 billion by 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:30
615 views
When Conversations and Creativity Collide: SA Podcast & Music Festival to Unleash Media Powerhouses
Get ready for an electrifying celebration at the SA Podcast & Music Festival, where industry titans in podcasting and music are set to converge under one dynamic roof. Hosted during South Africa’s vibrant Youth Month on June 14th and 15th, this festival promises an unforgettable experience for aspiring and established podcasters alike. The festival lineup …
The Ultimate Guide to Men’s Rings: Styles, Materials, and Significance
Introduction Rings are more than just decorative accessories for men; they are a profound expression of personality, commitment, and style. Whether it’s a sleek band worn as a fashion statement, a robust signet bearing a family crest, or a simple yet poignant wedding band, men’s rings come in a vast array of styles and materials, …
Redefining Healthcare
First Care Solutions launches a first-of-its-kind healthcare platform built for patients, doctors, and businesses. Johannesburg, South Africa: First Care Solutions today announced CareFirst, an innovative digital healthcare platform, a bouquet of technology solutions that is revolutionising the way medical care is delivered. CareFirst Virtual Healthcare aims to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers …
Durban households still without water as reservoir levels remain critically low
Residents of Ntuzuma welcomed the arrival of a municipal water truck on Sunday after more than a week without water
Safeguard and Promote: The Bright Side of Promotional Sunscreen
In the sun-drenched landscapes of Australia, sunscreen isn’t just a seasonal accessory; it’s an essential part of everyday life. This makes custom sunscreen an ideal promotional product. Offering sunscreen as a corporate gift not only shows care for the recipient’s health but also provides a platform for effective brand exposure. Let’s dive into why sunscreen …
United Nation Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety to launch global road safety campaign in South Africa
The United Nations Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will visit South Africa from 13 to 15 May 2024 to support national and local authorities' road safety initiatives. In particular, the Special Envoy will launch the UN Global Campaign for Road Safety, in partnership with the No.1 outdoor advertising company worldwide, JCDecaux, under the hashtag #MakeASafetyStatement.
One of the main goals of this campaign is to raise awareness of life-saving actions among young generations, who as statistics show, are the major victims of road crashes especially for young people aged from 5 to 29 years old worldwide. Supporting the efforts of South Africa in addressing this issue is key in a country where more than 60% of the population is under 35 years old.
The launch events are to be held in Johannesburg and Pretoria with the participation of the Minister of Transport of South Africa and the Executive Mayors of Tshwane and Johannesburg.
Mr. Todt will meet members of the Government as well as representatives of the private and public sectors and NGOs to advocate for the effective implementation of the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which aims to halve the number of road fatalities by 2030.
"Africa is the continent most affected by road crashes. Knowing that these affect the youngest first, it is beyond the human tragedy, an economic devastation sacrificing or invalidating for life the active force of a country. While the vaccine to avoid this carnage on the road exists, I urgently call on everyone to use it," said the Special Envoy.
#MakeASafetyStatement
Ten South African celebrities including Yvonne Chaka-Chaka, Bryoni Govender, Dr. Khumalo, Sello Maake Ka Ncube, Maduvha Madima, Leanne Manas, Dr. Moratwe Masima, Thokozani Ndaba, Gaisang Noge, and Caster Semenya, will join the campaign's worldwide ambassadors to encourage users to adopt simple but effective rules to keep their roads safe.
“Human Factors contribute 88% to South African road fatalities and therefore the involvement of celebrities as role models for the Youth in the #MakeASafetyStatement campaign will contribute towards the reduction of accidents on our roads,” stressed Ms. Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga, Minister of Transport of the Republic of South Africa.
New alarming figures
The Special Envoy's visit coincides with the recent release of the Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023 from the World Health Organization (WHO) on road safety, highlighting that Africa remains the region the most affected by this tragedy.
According to the WHO report, the number of victims on African roads continues to grow with a mortality rate of 19/100,000 people, while in Europe, we observe a rate of 7 deaths/100,000 people. In South Africa, there are 25 deaths per 100,000 people.
According to the World Bank (2026), the cost of road crashes represented 8.6% of South Africa's GDP in 2016. The RTMC 2023 State of Road safety Report highlights for 2023 the rate of 2.74% of South Africa 's GDP.
Reliable data for swift revitalization
Recent bus accidents have highlighted the run-down state of Africa's vehicle fleet. Failure to comply with the Highway Code and to enforce penalties are also significant causes of accidents.
Solutions to be implemented include adhering to the African Road Safety Charter and the United Nations Conventions on Road Safety, strengthening the health services that treat the injured and stepping up public awareness campaigns. Systematically collecting reliable data on road accidents and monitoring casualties is also a key element in reducing the number of victims.
There is also a need to protect the most vulnerable road users, pedestrians, and cyclists, who are often the most disadvantaged and the youngest. Africa has the highest proportion of cyclist and pedestrian deaths, accounting for 44% of all road deaths.
In South Africa, the efforts of the authorities are to be commended, with new initiatives such as the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences, the adoption of new technologies to enhance access to traffic licensing services (National Traffic Information System Online Services), the professionalization of the Traffic and Road Safety Officers Training through the National Framework Level 6 Qualification), Standardization and Harmonization of Traffic Law Enforcement and the development of a National Traffic Law Enforcement Code.
Risk factors that are too often neglected
Drink-driving, speeding, drowsiness, carelessness, non-use of seatbelts and helmets, negligence and non-compliance with the Highway Code are responsible for most road accidents in Africa. However, according to the WHO, more progress must be made regarding legislation and safety standards.
Only six countries in the world have laws that comply with WHO best practices for all the risk factors - speeding, driving under the influence or distracted driving, use of UN-standard motorbike helmets, and use of seatbelts and child restraints.
In South Africa, speeding in urban areas is high (60KM/h), and child restraint systems are not always available. At a time when the use of motorbikes is on the increase, particularly among young people, the wearing of seatbelts and quality helmets remains a real challenge, even though it could prevent many deaths and reduce the risk of serious injury by 69%.
Recent data reveal that the majority of road crashes occur at night from Friday till Sunday with youth and pedestrians being the lead victims.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
Electoral Court fines ANC, ATM, COPE, PAC, NFP and AIC
They failed to provide audited financial statements
One Day to Go: Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2024 Forum Prepares to Kick Off
The second edition of the Invest in African Energy (IAE) forum will kick off on Tuesday, May 14 in Paris, uniting the African and global energy industry for two days of discussions, networking and deal-making opportunities.
The two-day forum has confirmed the participation of African energy ministries, NOCs, service providers and regulators from Angola, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, The Gambia, Guinea-Conakry, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, Senegal and South Africa. These target markets will showcase key projects open to private sector participation – including licensing rounds, farm-in opportunities and more – through technical presentations, country-specific sessions and regional market spotlights. A highly anticipated ministerial panel on Day 2 will map Africa's path in the just energy transition, amid shifting energy priorities and global environmental policies.
IAE 2024 is an exclusive forum designed to foster collaboration between European investors and African energy markets. Taking place May 14-15, 2024, in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors, and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com.
The event has also attracted the attention of global investors, bringing together operators, exploration and production companies, technology and service providers, development finance institutions, multilateral banks, investment platforms and trade and development organizations from the Middle East, Europe, the U.S. and Asia. IAE 2024's international, high-level attendance speaks to sustained interest in developing Africa's energy resources for enhanced energy security on the continent and across the globe. A series of panel discussions will explore future proofing Africa's gas and LNG industry; creating opportunities in Africa's energy system; financing African renewable energy projects; unlocking midstream and downstream investment; new opportunities in key growth markets; and more.
“IAE 2024 is set to be the premier African energy project showcase taking place outside of the African continent. We invite energy industry stakeholders to register and attend the forum – kicking off tomorrow – as we look forward to two productive days of deal-making and discussions in Paris,” says Sandra Jeque, Event & Project Director at Energy Capital & Power, forum organizers.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
A Guide to Supplements and Diet Plans for Weight Loss
Introduction Embarking on a weight loss journey can be daunting, yet with the right tools and information, it becomes a manageable endeavour. This guide will explore various supplements and dietary plans that could assist in achieving your weight loss goals. We’ll delve into the roles of collagen powder, weight loss pills, meal replacement shakes, and …
The Power of Promotional Notebooks in Australia’s Corporate Landscape
In today’s competitive business environment, standing out is more important than ever. One effective way to achieve this is through the use of promotional products, and one of the most timeless and versatile options is the promotional notebook. Across Australia, businesses of all sizes are discovering the benefits of incorporating promotional notebooks into their marketing …
Keep it Cool: The Appeal of Custom Cooler Bags in Promotional Gifting
In the realm of promotional products, choosing the right item can make all the difference in how a brand is perceived. Among the myriad options available, custom cooler bags have emerged as a popular choice for businesses across Australia, blending functionality with effective branding. Let’s explore why these items are becoming go-to gifts for companies …
RugbyPass TV To Stream Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Final for Historic Debut
The final round of the 2024 Rugby Africa Women's Cup organized by Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body of Rugby across Africa will be streamed live for the first time on RugbyPass TV (www.RugbyPass.com), official free streaming service of World Rugby, at 13:00 (East Africa Time) local time in Antananarivo, Madagascar on Sunday, May 12.
Defending champions, South Africa will compete against host nation Madagascar, to secure pathway for the 2025 Women's World Cup in England. Runner-up will qualify for the WX3 tournament in Dubai scheduled for October 2024.
Launched in 2023, the official global streaming platform of World Rugby (www.World.Rugby), Rugby Pass TV, aims to grow the global game by making rugby more accessible to fans worldwide for free. The live streaming of the Rugby Africa Women's tournament on Rugby Pass TV highlights the growing interest in women's rugby across the African continent. This occasion provides an opportunity for fans to support their teams and experience the thrill of the game. The match will also be live streamed on Super Sport YouTube Page, Rugby Africa Facebook and YouTube Page. In addition to live stream, the final round will be broadcasted on SuperSport.
The Rugby Africa Women's Tournament is a continental rugby union competition organized by Rugby Africa. Participating countries in the three round tournaments include Cameroon, Kenya, Madagascar and South Africa. All three rounds of the women's tournament are actively taking at the Stadis Makis in Antananrivo, Madagascar, following commencement on May 4. It is the second time Madagascar is hosting the Rugby Africa Women's tournament, having done so successfully in 2023.
The final round of the Rugby Africa' Women's Cup will be kicking of at 13:00 (East Africa Time), with Kenya' Lionesses competing against Cameroon. Followed by the deciding match South Africa's Springboks and Madagascar at 15:00 (East Africa Time).
To Access Live Stream:
RugbyPass TV: https://apo-opa.co/3USxcMu
SuperSport: https://apo-opa.co/3wkaZ0E
Rugby Africa YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3WD8NvD
Rugby Africa Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4dAAXgY
To View Broadcast:
SuperSport Linear: Channel 244
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com
About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
South Africa seeks additional provisional measures in Gaza
South Africa seeks additional provisional measures in Gaza
South Africa has returned to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to seek an urgent order from the court for the protection of Palestinian people in Gaza amid Israel’s ongoing military assault on Rafah.
The urgent application filed on Friday follows the escalation of Israel’s assault on Rafah, which poses an extreme risk to humanitarian supplies, basic services into Gaza, the survival of the Palestinian medical system, and the survival of Palestinians in Gaza as a group.
In a statement issued by the Presidency on Saturday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africa contends that the attack on Rafah further worsens the prevailing situation and causes irreparable harm to the rights of Palestinians in Gaza, and that the situation has changed significantly since the Court’s order of 28 March 2024.
Rafah is home to 1.5 million Palestinians, and it is the last refuge in Gaza for those displaced by Israeli action. It is the last viable centre for public administration and the provision of basic public services, including medical care.
“Since the start of the military action in Rafah, Israel has seized control of both the Rafah and Kerem Shalom (Karem Abu Salem) crossings, effectively controlling all movement in and out of Gaza, and cutting off all critical humanitarian and medical supplies, goods and fuel.
“Israel has further prevented medical evacuations and has treated evacuation zones as extermination zones, as evidenced with the destruction of hospitals in Gaza and discovery of mass graves in other major health care facilities in the Strip,” President Ramaphosa said.
South Africa has called for urgent interventions and investigations of all actions that continue to cause irreparable prejudice to the rights of Palestinians, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for targeted killings.
South Africa called on the State of Israel to immediately withdraw and cease its military offensive in the Rafah Governorate, and take all effective measures to ensure and facilitate the unimpeded access to Gaza of United Nations and other officials engaged in the provision of humanitarian aid and assistance to the population of Gaza.
The country also called for fact-finding missions by internationally mandated bodies or officials, investigators and journalists in order to assess and record conditions on the ground in Gaza and enable the effective preservation and retention of evidence and shall ensure that its military does not act to prevent such access, provision, preservation or retention.
“The State of Israel shall submit an open report to the Court on all measures taken to give effect to these provisional measures within one week as from the date of this Order; and on all measures taken to give effect to all previous provisional measures indicated by the Court within one month as from the date of this Order,” the President said.
South Africa also requested that the Court reaffirm and seek urgent compliance by Israel with the provisional measures ordered by the Court on 26 January and 28 March 2024.
“South Africa remains firmly of the view that the necessary condition for the effective implementation of the Court’s provisional measures is a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. We call on the international community, including the allies of the State of Israel, not to turn a blind eye to the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
“The gross human rights violations perpetuated by Israel have scaled to incomprehensible levels of cruelty, hate and extreme violent oppression. The world must do more to end the persecution of Palestinians, including that of many innocent women and children,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said South Africa is deeply heartened by the protest actions of university students in the United States and other parts of the world.
READ | Pandor reiterates stance on Israel
“We are also greatly encouraged by the adoption of the United Nations General Assembly draft resolution that recommends to the Security Council to reconsider favourably the application by the State of Palestine for full membership of the United Nations.
“The support of this resolution shown by 143 countries is a further demonstration that the world is listening to the cries of the Palestinians,” Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 10:12
760 views
SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba
SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba
With just one day to go until the start of Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024, over 120 hopeful and excited small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) are gearing up for the highlight of their marketing calendars.
Themed, 'Unlocking Opportunities', the renowned Africa Travel Indaba, which will take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, from 13 to 16 May 2024, is expected to connect the tourism industry with unlimited opportunities.
The event is expected to be attended by 9 000 delegates from over 25 countries.
Acting CEO for Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN), Sibusiso Gumbi, said of the 120 SMMEs, 15 are KwaZulu-Natal-based SMMEs, which are part of TKZN's Tourism Enterprise Development Programme.
Gumbi said the SMMEs will be using every opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services to the thousands of domestic and international travel buyers attending the indaba.
“These fledgling businesses exhibiting on the TKZN stand have an integral part to play in the growth and development of the tourism sector. SMMEs not only contribute to job creation but are important for bringing new products to market and creating jobs,” Gumbi said.
Whilst most outbound travel is dominated by corporates, Gumbi noted that 80% of those serving the inbound market are small owner-managed operations.
“In fact, small businesses account for more than 80% of the tourism industry as a whole.
“We want SMMEs to grow into substantial players in this critical sector of our economy. However, we know transformation will not occur spontaneously but requires deliberate and sustained effort from all stakeholders.
“For this reason, we have implemented various programmes to ensure that our SMMEs get the much deserved and needed support. Enabling SMMEs to attend ATI is one of the ways in which we assist emerging tourism businesses,” Gumbi said.
EThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Thembo Ntuli said the city’s economy will benefit immensely from hosting this four-day event.
“Hotel occupancy is expected to be between 85% and 95%. The total expected spending is estimated at R177 million, contributing R439 million to eThekwini’s GDP with 796 jobs to be created,” Ntuli said. SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 09:17
93 views
Huge march to Parliament for better schools
Presidency and Department of Basic Education commit to respond to demands by Equal Education
No lack of investor confidence in SA – Minister Ntshavheni
No lack of investor confidence in SA - Minister Ntshavheni
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshaveni, has reiterated government’s stance that “there are no investors leaving" the country in droves.
This as some media reports stated earlier this month that Shell is leaving South Africa after operating in the country for over 100 years.
The Minister was speaking on the sidelines of the Presidential District Development Model (DDM) Imbizo held at Kuruman in the Northern Cape on Thursday.
“There are no investors that are leaving the country in droves. You are dealing with commercial transactions which companies look at. One company comes out, another one comes in.
“[There was] a story that VW was leaving South Africa. VW just reinvested R4 billion preparing for a new line of auto-manufacturing vehicles that are coming in 2027 to 2029. So, it’s commercial transactions that happen globally. Every business looks at their own opportunities and says what’s in their own interest and it doesn’t mean it’s a reflection on the investor confidence in the country,” she said.
The Minister said investments “continue to flow into this country” – citing the Boegoebaai green hydrogen project as an example.
“I could churn out the numbers that are invested. The President has mentioned Boegoebaai. There are international investors that have partnered with us on Boegoebaai and there are South African companies themselves.
“What’s important is when your own businesses invest in your own country – that’s most significant than anything else because it shows the international community that we have confidence,” she said.
In the State of the Nation Address (SONA) earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted that green hydrogen and electric vehicle manufacturing are receiving particular attention.
“We are going to set up a Special Economic Zone in the Boegoebaai port to drive investment in green energy. There is a great deal of interest from the private sector to participate in the boom that will be generated from green hydrogen energy projects,” the President said at the time.
Load shedding and logistics
Addressing the challenge of load shedding and the issues in freight rail to businesses, Ntshavheni said government is steadily working on those challenges.
“Three months ago, the media was saying load shedding is making sure that investors leave but we have handled load shedding up to where we are [more than a month without load shedding].
“There are notions that we are burning diesel. We are not burning diesel. Eskom has told us that they are switching off some [generating units]. They are putting some in maintenance early because we’ve got excess power.
“We have been dealing with the logistics issue with Transnet in Durban in particular and they are back on speed in terms of the backlog that they faced. So, there is no lack of investor confidence in our country.
“In terms of the World Bank, we are still rated the largest economy in Africa…and we compete with other countries toe to toe in terms of attracting investments,” Ntshavheni concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 09:37
603 views
The Importance of Dust Control in Maintaining a Healthy Work Environment
Introduction Dust is more than just a nuisance; it can be a serious hazard in many work environments. Controlling it is not only essential for cleanliness but also for health and safety. This article explores effective strategies for dust control and how they can benefit various industries. Why Dust Control Matters Dust accumulation can lead …
President mourns passing of retired ConCourt Justice Yvonne Mokgoro
President mourns passing of retired ConCourt Justice Yvonne Mokgoro
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed sadness at the passing of retired Constitutional Court Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, who was also an esteemed member of the Order of the Baobab.
Mokgoro, 73, passed away on Thursday, 9 May 2024, following an extended illness after a car accident.
“On behalf of government, President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to Prof Job Mokgoro and the late Justice’s immediate and extended family, as well as her many associates in the legal fraternity in South Africa and abroad,” a statement from the Presidency read.
Mokgoro was a judge of the Constitutional Court of South Africa from its inception in 1994 until the end of her 15-year term in 2009.
She was South Africa’s first black woman judge to sit on the Constitutional Court’s bench.
The Justice obtained a Bachelor of Jurisprudence (B Juris) degree at the then University of Bophuthatswana (now North West University) in 1982, a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) two years later, and a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in 1987.
She also studied at the University of Pennsylvania in the United States, where she obtained a second LLM degree in 1990.
Throughout her legal career, she taught several courses, including Constitutional Law, Human Rights Law Jurisprudence, History of Law, Comparative Law, Criminal Law, Private Law and Customary Law at a number of universities in South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States and the Netherlands.
“She wrote and presented papers, and participated in a myriad of national and international conferences, seminars and workshops in South Africa and internationally, mainly in sociological jurisprudence and particularly on human rights, and customary law, focusing on the impact of law on society generally, and women and children specifically,” said the Presidency.
In 2015, she was inducted as a member of the Order of the Baobab in Bronze for her excellent contribution to the field of law and administration of justice in a democratic South Africa.
President Ramaphosa said: “Justice Mokgoro’s passing deprives our nation of a formidable intellect and impeccable jurist, who served our democracy at its very inception and through the years that followed.
“As we recall the inauguration of our founding President Nelson Mandela 30 years ago on this day, 10 May, we count his appointment of Justice Mokgoro to the Constitutional Court as one of the critical, transformative decisions he exercised in those early days of our liberation.”
As a black woman judge, President Ramaphosa said Mokgoro was a pioneering embodiment of and contributor to the transformation of the country and the legal system and new jurisprudence that enabled transformation.
“Justice Mokgoro distinguished herself as an academic, a justice of our apex court, Chairperson of the South African Law Commission and as a strategic advisor to a diversity of boards in different sectors.
“Her insightful and principled counsel lives on in the thousands of legal careers she shaped in the course of her academic endeavours.
“She has left us under very tragic circumstances, and we, therefore, join the family in their sadness and their prayers that this beloved mother, patriot, leader and citizen of the globe will rest in peace,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 11:45
264 views
CSA Bids Farewell To Long-Serving Proteas Women Head Coach Hilton Moreeng
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today announced the departure of Hilton Moreeng as the Proteas Women head coach upon...
South Africa’s Tobacco Bill process faces scrutiny as experts uncover flaws.
[Pretoria, South Africa] – As we wrap VApril, a month dedicated to education and awareness about vaping, the Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) recommits itself to keeping the public informed about the ongoing process for South Africa’s Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (the Tobacco Bill). Most recently, several public hearings …
Warning against Employment Equity misrepresentation
Warning against Employment Equity misrepresentation
The Department of Employment and Labour has warned employers against misrepresenting their Employment Equity (EE) status.
The department’s Statutory and Advocacy Services Chief Director, Advocate Fikiswa Bede, said a number of employers risk being taken to courts over misrepresentation on their employment equity status.
Bede said, in addition to imposing fines, the department will also be taking a number of employers to court and lay criminal charges.
“The Employment Equity Act allows us to go to court. I hope no one wants to have a criminal record. We are now seriously looking at pursuing the criminal route,” Bede said.
Bede noted that Chief Executives of companies are responsible for signing-off the EE plans.
She said the department has been doing its own monitoring and will no longer accept EE reports as the gospel truth.
Just like the Chief Executives, Bede said EE managers and EE Forum members have a duty to ensure compliance and as such they will also need to be held accountable.
Bede was speaking during the Employment Equity Dinner and Awards ceremony, held in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on Thursday night.
The department hosted the EE awards to reward employers complying with the legislation and also aimed to promote compliance with EE legislation.
Employers bestowed with recognition were selected from a sample of 91 employers from various sectors who were judged against their own approved EE plans, and the number was reduced to nine.
She emphasised the department is not interested in getting money from employers but ensuring compliance.
She said the inspectorate would be invoking Section 61, where some of the elements of the section states that “no person may – obstruct or attempt to improperly influence any person who is exercising power or performing a function in terms of this Act; or knowingly give false information in any document or information provided to the Director-General or a labour inspector in terms of this Act.”
Employment and Labour Inspector General, Aggy Moiloa urged employers to comply and not allow themselves to be pushed or force be exerted on them to comply.
“Judging by the annual reports of the Commission for Employment Equity (CEE), the work of the inspectorate is cut out. We have some mileage to cover,” Moiloa said.
Moiloa commended the award recipients, emphasising that workplaces should be centres to harvest talent.
“These are ground breakers, trend setters who give us hope that there are institutions that are willing to comply,” Moiloa said.
Award categories
Ministerial award (performing inspectors): Albert Mabokela; Lesego Maema; Edward Manana;
Ministerial Award Gold: Clientele Legal; Sherwood Spar; Shoprite Cherkers Pty Ltd;
Ministerial Award Silver: Le Roux; Medicus Shoes; Pine Lake Marina Pty Ltd; and
Ministerial Award Bronze: Braitex Tensilon Pty Ltd; Toscana Herbs and Fresh Produce Pty Ltd.
The category on affirmed employers, who showed progress was awarded to Footgear (Pty) Ltd; Ackermans A Division of Pepkor Trading (Proprietary) Ltd; Sasol Limited and Samsung Electronics South Africa Production (Pty) Ltd.
Other affirmed employers included Gautrain Management Agency; Mediclinic South Africa; Blunden Coach Tours; Rockwell Automation; Machinery Plant Hire cc and Sishen Iron Ore Company PTY LTD. -SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 10:14
176 views