Universal Basic Income Grant: who will profit?
There are risks in using a private company to pay the grants
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Preparing for Comrades: The athlete’s toolkit for tackling foot care woes
South Africa’s great climate and beautiful natural resources support a vibrant running community, with trail and road running races popular countrywide. As the Comrades Marathon approaches on 9 June, many runners are preparing to compete in The Ultimate Human Race, and along with increasing endurance, foot care will need to be a priority. Kroko, manufacturers …
Gauteng funding crisis: Disability organisations face closure
Department of Social Development has not finalised contracts with organisations providing vital services
Protesters demand Wits take public stand on Gaza
Calls for “academic boycott of apartheid Israel”
Pandor condemns killing and silencing of journalists in Palestine
Pandor condemns killing and silencing of journalists in Palestine
The capacity of journalists to report on events in real-time is crucial, and intimidating or killing members of the media must not be permitted to persist without consequences.
This is according to International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who spoke at the second Shireen Abu Akleh Memorial Lecture at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) on Wednesday.
Abu Akleh was a prominent Palestinian-American journalist, who worked as a reporter for Al Jazeera. She was killed by an Israeli soldier while wearing a blue press vest and covering a raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
The lecture, organised by the Faculty of Humanities at UJ, centred on the role of academic institutions during periods of genocide.
WATCH |
Pandor said the lecture occurs against a “troubling” backdrop of an evident decline in media freedom.
She is of the view that academics and institutions must allocate more time to address the decline and the escalating threat to free expression.
“In the past, journalists knew they would enjoy robust and active protection from fearless colleagues, who would risk their lives to protect them. The decline we are witnessing cannot simply be explained away by citing wireless, social media or other technologies.”
This week marks two years since the assassination of Abu Akleh, who Pandor described as a beloved veteran journalist, who dedicated her life to the pursuit of justice and truth.
“To date, no one has been held accountable for her death despite the global outrage, and there has been no reported progress in the investigation at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and silence with regards to any other investigation,” the Minister said.
She cited the United Nations (UN) Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which “concluded on reasonable grounds that Israeli forces used lethal force without justification under international human rights law” when they shot and killed the journalist, violating her right to life.
Pandor bemoaned the situation for journalists in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, which she said has become increasingly grave over the past seven months.
She cited Committee to Protect Journalists data which revealed that as of 23 April this year, at least 97 journalists and media workers are among the 35 000 that have been killed in Gaza since 7 October 2023.
Pandor is of the view that the targeting of journalists in the Occupied Territories is part of a pattern of silencing the free press and is an outright contravention of international law.
“International human rights law obligates an occupying power to allow for freedom of expression and protests. The ability of journalists to cover events as they take place is essential, and efforts to intimidate and assassinate members of the media should not be allowed to continue with impunity.”
International human rights law, Pandor said, obligates an occupying power to allow for freedom of expression and protests.
“If Shireen were alive today, she would have been in the trenches in Gaza, reporting day and night on the atrocities taking place in the hopes that the world would take notice and show their solidarity with the Palestinian people.”
Pandor believes that Abu Akleh would have been devastated by the destruction of civilian life in Gaza and the global tolerance of the unending suffering of the Palestinian people, many of whom have died agonising deaths trapped under rubble.
“She would have been reporting on the immense suffering of survivors in Gaza, who are now battling unprecedented hunger and starvation, as well as continuous military assaults by the Occupying Forces.”
Despite the International Court of Justice ruling, the Minister said the Israeli state has continued its murderous assault on the people of Gaza with impunity, killing more civilians, injuring thousands, the continued bombing of homes and other buildings and infrastructure, affecting every possible avenue of life of the residents of Gaza.
“The lack of accountability by Israel is increasingly clear.”
Crimes against humanity
The Minister said the evidence of the mass killings of civilians points to the perpetration of war crimes, crimes against humanity.
International humanitarian law prohibits attacks on civilians and non-combatants, underlining the need to protect human life during times of war, Pandor said.
She stressed that South Africa continues to call on the ICC to prosecute these war crimes and to issue arrest warrants for those leaders in Israel who have ordered and presided over these crimes.
“The slowness to investigate and prosecute those responsible for these war crimes necessitates greater mobilisation among the youth and civil society around the globe to ensure that justice for the Palestinians is realised.
“It is time for collective action and for us to champion the call for the implementation of UN resolutions and rulings of the world’s highest court. We owe this to the people of Palestine and the memory of Shireen Abu Akleh,” Pandor said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 11:09
731 views
President assents to law Bill criminalising hate crimes, hate speech
President assents to law Bill criminalising hate crimes, hate speech
President Cyril Ramaphosa has given his approval to the Preventing and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill, which criminalises hate crimes and hate speech.
The law also outlines the prosecution process for individuals who perpetrate these offences.
“This legislative measure gives effect to South Africa’s obligations in terms of the Constitution and international human rights instruments concerning racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, in accordance with international law obligations,” the Presidency explained in a statement on Thursday.
According to the statement, the Constitution sets out certain basic values, including human dignity, the achievement of equality and the advancement of human rights and freedoms and non-racialism and non-sexism.
The Bill of Rights, in Section 9 of the Constitution, prohibits direct or indirect unfair discrimination against anyone on the grounds of race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, conscience, belief, culture, language and birth.
“The Bill of Rights gives everyone the right to dignity and gives everyone the right to freedom and security of the person, which includes the right to be free from all forms of violence from either public or private sources.”
The President’s Office explained that the new Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act provides for the prevention of hate crimes and hate speech, effective enforcement measures, and the gathering and recording of data on hate crimes and hate speech.
“A hate crime is committed if a person commits any recognised offence under any law that is motivated by prejudice or intolerance based on one or more characteristics or perceived characteristics of the victim, as listed in the legislation or a family member of the victim.”
The definition of the crime, the Presidency said, extends to offences targeting the victim’s association with or support for a person with one or more of the listed characteristics or a group of persons who share these characteristics.
“The offence of hate speech applies to any person who intentionally publishes, propagates, advocates, shares or communicates anything to one or more persons in a manner that could reasonably be construed to demonstrate a clear intention to be harmful or to incite harm and to promote or propagate hatred based on defined grounds.
“The law also makes it an offence when speech material is intentionally distributed or made available in electronic communication, and the said person knows that such electronic communication constitutes hate speech.”
However, the law does not consider actions undertaken in good faith during engagement as part of hate speech.
These actions include artistic creativity, performance or other form of expression; academic or scientific inquiry; and fair and accurate reporting or commentary in the public interest.
It also excludes interpretation and articulating or espousing of any religious conviction, tenet, belief, teaching, doctrine or writing that does not advocate hatred or constitutes incitement to cause harm.
The law also contains directives on training and other measures to be undertaken by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to ensure effective processing of the newly defined crimes. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 11:39
931 views
Remote Namaqualand diamond town battles dust and neglect
Mine told to fix the pollution problem
District Development Model Imbizo kicks off in the Northern Cape
District Development Model Imbizo kicks off in the Northern Cape
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Minister Thembi Nkadimeng, says the District Development Model (DDM) izimbizo are critical for ensuring that government serves the people and that no one is left behind.
She was speaking at the DDM Imbizo held at the Batlharos Sports Ground in Kuruman in the Northern Cape.
The imbizo is the 13th that has been held by the sixth administration lead by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
READ | President to engage Northern Cape residents on various issues
The izimbizo, which have been held in all provinces, allow members of communities to interact with leaders from national, provincial and local government on service delivery challenges that communities are facing.
“We are here to listen to you as the people who are supposed to receive government services. President Ramaphosa has come with Ministers, provincial leaders as well as councillors so that they can bring answers and solutions to all of the challenges you have.
“The President has come with his Cabinet so that you can talk to them,” she said.
The Minister told the crowd that the upcoming general election – expected to be held on 29 May – does not have any influence on why the DDM is being held.
WATCH |
“We are not here because of elections. We are here because of COGTA that runs the Presidential Imibizo. It is not many Presidents that come in front of the people to answer. It is about delivery in action… Our intention is to leave no one behind,” Nkadimeng said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 12:24
639 views
Inner Drive: An epic journey, told through individual narratives
How does a startup, founded far from the advantages and resources of the world's tech hubs, go on to reach unicorn status? And more deeply, just how far can the drive for meaning and purpose ultimately take you? The inDrive documentary (www.inDrive.com) sets out to answer these questions.
In an exclusive premier in Johannesburg, South Africa, the inDrive documentary offered audiences a rare glimpse into the heart and soul of the company, with never-before-seen footage and candid stories from the individuals at inDrive's roots, including founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky.
Far from being a run-of-the-mill corporate film, this narrative delves deep into the butterfly effect of positive impact, illustrating how inDrive's initiatives have rippled through communities, creating waves of change that extend far beyond their initial touchpoints.
In the frozen Yakutsk winter, a group of people band together against the unfair price collusion of taxi companies that leaves people stranded in the cold. One of them starts a social media group where people can request and offer rides, negotiating prices on their own terms.
It's a simple enough idea, but it carries the potential to be revolutionary. From this frozen seed, a collective stance against injustice, inDrive takes root. Today, the company has grown to become the world's second largest ride-hailing app, operating in over 700 cities in 46 countries, fuelled by deep-seated ideals and ambitions that extend far beyond profit.
inDrive wants to reimagine capitalism, no less: to put people back in control, restore their freedom to choose, and so make their lives better.
Among the heartwarming tales shared, the film follows the journey of Obadiah, a young Nigerian boy once enveloped in the despair of his surroundings. inDrive's Beginit initiative is now paving the way for a brighter future for him and many others.
Reflecting on the film and its message, inDrive Founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky said: “We should focus on the path, on the journey. And if you do something important for you, that is very meaningful for you, and you develop an external environment during that journey, you are getting more and more with each step. And that is something which nobody can take from you. Even if you don't reach a peak, you will have something available to you.”
The production is directed by Lagos/Nairobi-based, Emmy Award winner Dan McCain, and Greek producer and editor Theo Papadoulakis, each renowned for their talents in portraying everyday individuals facing remarkable situations. Dan is a prolific filmmaker who specializes in locally relevant and impactful storytelling, while Papadoulakis, recognized with over 70 international accolades, particularly excels in showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.
"In making this film with inDrive, we hope to honor the resilience and determination of individuals whose dreams lead to something profound. It's a privilege to be part of a multi-country international production, collaborating with other talented directors, where we weave together inspiring narratives that add to the epic tale of human potential," said Dan McCain.
Person by person, the documentary tells inDrive's story. From the remarkable individuals in Nigeria, Indonesia, Mexico and beyond, who use the ride-hailing app to take control of their futures, to the communities who take their chance to move forward.
From Arsen Tomsky, the company's visionary CEO, who overcomes challenges both personal and social to take an idea to the world, to the employees who come on board to help inDrive evolve and grow, fuelled by shared values and a common goal. It's an epic journey, told by connecting people around the world. And it's far from over.
Watch the inDrive movie here: movie.inDrive.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of inDrive.
Press Contact:
Public Relations Manager - inDrive Africa
Lineo Thakhisi
Phone: +2781 3636 872
Email: lineo.thakhisi@indriver.com
About inDrive:
inDrive is a global mobility and urban services platform. The inDrive app has been downloaded over 200 million times, and was the second most downloaded mobility app in 2022 and 2023. In addition to ride-hailing, inDrive provides an expanding list of urban services, including intercity transportation, freight delivery, task assistance and courier delivery. In 2023, inDrive launched New Ventures, a venture and M&A arm.
inDrive operates in 749 cities in 46 countries. Driven by its mission of challenging social injustice, the company is committed to having a positive impact on the lives of one billion people by 2030. It pursues this goal both through its core business, which supports local communities via a fair pricing model; and through the work of inVision, its non-profit arm. inVision's community empowerment programs help to advance education, sports, arts and sciences, gender equality and other vital initiatives.
For more information visit www.inDrive.com
George building collapse: numbers revised
George building collapse: numbers revised
A total of 81 construction workers have been confirmed to have been on site at the time a building collapsed in George Municipality in the Western Cape on Monday.
The revised number was confirmed on Thursday following a previous report of 75 people having been reported to have been on site when the incident happened.
Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi visited the site of the collapsed building, where he interacted with the local and provincial government to get an update from rescuers and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) inspectors from the department, who were dispatched to the site.
Briefing media, Nxesi said the police are currently "in control” at this stage and will be allowed to do their own work unhindered until their investigation is complete.
“At some stage, once they are done with their work, the police will hand over to the Department of Employment and Labour, which will be able to start with its own investigation. Our investigations are informed by the Occupational Health and Safety Act, in particular Section 31 and 32, [which guides what] normally happens when we face such incidents,” Nxesi said.
Giving the different statutory roles played by different levels of government and departments, the Minister said it was agreed that all parties will play their roles collaboratively and in support of one another.
“Any interested parties who want to do their investigations will do them, but we will also do our own investigation and we will be informed by the police once they are done. At the end, once we get the investigation of the police and our investigations, in particular, we will be able to say what we are going to do,” Nxesi said.
He emphasised that the department did not want to speculate on what transpired but will leave everything to the investigations.
“Once the investigations have been able to expose the facts, we will talk to that.”
The Minister noted that a number of national department Ministers, including Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Human Settlements, Police and Social Development, also have interest in the matter.
“We will be following through our people on the ground on what is happening. We were also informed that the Department of International Relations and Cooperation also has an interest because we [will not] be able to communicate with some of the families, in terms of the languages.
“We need to talk to the various missions who are here in South Africa to send their people… so they can communicate properly with the families,” Nxesi said.
He noted that while the department has compensation to give, this can only be done once all the people have been identified.
He said there is no timeline for the investigation, as it will depend on what is uncovered during the investigation, and the police will hand over the site to the department.
The Minister further appealed to the employer of the construction workers or the construction owners to come forward and talk with the families of the workers.
“Thus far, in terms of what I’ve been briefed, we do not know where they are,” Nxesi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 15:29
179 views
Foot and Mouth Disease detected on Eastern Cape farm
Foot and Mouth Disease detected on Eastern Cape farm
The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform has confirmed cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) on one of the farms in the province.
A case of FMD was confirmed on a dairy herd located at Humansdorp in the Kouga after the National Veterinary Reference laboratory conducted epidemiological investigations.
This after the animals showed clinical signs of the disease and on 1 May 2024, the positive laboratory results confirmed the diagnosis.
The provincial department’s Veterinary Services Chief Director, Dr Cebisa Mnqeta, said the farm initially recorded about 70 animals that were showing clinical signs and has since been recording an average of 10 new cases per day.
Mnqeta said the infected farm, including adjacent neighbouring farms and contact farms, have been put under quarantine whilst waiting for laboratory results to rule out the presence of the disease in those farms.
“The first batch of samples were shipped to the National Veterinary Reference laboratory on 03 May 2024 from three contact farms including an adjacent communal area. All these samples tested negative for the virus.
“The surveillance on neighbouring farms and on any other farm that is reported to have animals showing signs or symptoms of foot and mouth disease is ongoing. We have established a joint operations centre at the Kouga Local Municipality for coordinating work of all key stakeholders to contain [the] further spread of the disease in our province,” Mnqeta said.
Signs and symptoms of foot and mouth disease include hyper salivation, animal refuses to eat and when the mouth is opened vesicles and ulceration in the tongue and buccal membranes are observed, lameness is observed and the drop in milk production especially in the highest producing dairy animals.
Symptoms
Clinical signs can vary from mild to severe, and fatalities may occur, especially in young animals.
Mnqeta has urged farmers, livestock owners and people of the province to be alert and look for any signs and symptoms of the disease in their herds.
“Farmers are advised not to move their animals unnecessarily to avoid the spread of the disease. Should farmers feel obliged to move their animals, they must contact their local veterinarian for advice.”
Tracing and containing the virus
Mnqeta added that the department, collaborating with affected farmers and local stakeholders, continue to investigate the origin or source of the virus through backward and forward tracing.
As part of the strategy to control the spread of infection to the neighbouring farms, Mnqeta said the department will from today start the vaccinating of all cattle in the index farm and associated farms. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 12:28
401 views
Western Cape separatist loses complaint against Daily Maverick
A ruling by the Press Ombud has helped clarify clauses about fact versus opinion in the Press Code
Uncover the best tail-wagging adventures at these KZN South Coast pet-friendly venues
The KZN South Coast is the place where ocean sunrises and hinterland adventures await – but these are best enjoyed with the company of some four-legged friends! Fortunately, there is a wide selection of ‘pawfect’ pet-friendly accommodation options and restaurants to be explored in the Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom. “We understand that for many …
Hi-Tec Mothers’ Day Gift Guide!
We have one-stop shoppers in mind with this Mother’s Day gift guide that includes picks for every type of mom. Choose something the mom in your life will use — like a snuggly jacket with functional pockets or sporty-chic running shoes. When in doubt of where to buy these staples, keep in mind a retail …
President to engage Northern Cape residents on various issues
President to engage Northern Cape residents on various issues
President Cyril Ramaphosa will today lead government’s interaction - in the form of a District Development Model Presidential Imbizo - with communities and stakeholders within the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality in the Northern Cape.
Themed "Leave No One Behind", the 12th Presidential Imbizo promotes participatory democracy and inclusive development by allowing community members and stakeholders to voice proposals and express any concerns or dissatisfaction they may have about conditions in the district or province.
The official programme is expected to get underway at 11am at the Batlharos Sports Ground.
According to the Presidency, the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality is a rural district municipality which comprises three local municipalities - Ga- Segonyana, Joe Morolong and Gamagara.
“Mining, tourism, manufacturing and agriculture and forestry are key economic drivers in the district,” the office said in a statement.
The imbizo is directed at enabling successful implementation of the “One District, One Plan” District Development Model in which residents, traditional leaders, business formations, organised labour and faith- and community-based organisations work with government across all phases of planning, implementation, and evaluation.
In March, residents of Emalahleni, in Mpumalanga, had the opportunity to engage the President on the pressing matter of service delivery, among other issues.
Read I Communities have their say at Imbizo
There have been various build-up outreach activities led by all three spheres of government in parts of the district municipality and across the Northern Cape.
Ahead of the community engagement, President Ramaphosa will meet with the Northern Cape Provincial Executive of the House of Traditional and Khoi-san Leaders. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 10:01
205 views
The Environmental Impact of Disposable Coffee Cups: A Shift Towards Sustainable Solutions
In our fast-paced world, convenience often trumps sustainability. One glaring example of this is the widespread use of disposable coffee cups. While these cups offer a convenient solution for our on-the-go caffeine fix, their impact on the environment is significant and concerning. In this article, we’ll delve into the environmental issues posed by disposable coffee …
Activists want 12 more pieces of public land used for housing
Parking lots in Cape Town’s city centre should be used for affordable housing, says Ndifuna Ukwazi
Unpaid school uniform makers occupy Gauteng social development offices
Sewing co-operatives delivered thousands of school uniforms to learners in need, but the department is disowning them
Coal mine accused of making “manifestly scurrilous” allegations against opponents
A coalition against mining in the Mabola Protected Environment want “scandalous” and “irrelevant” claims struck from court record
Universal Basic Income Grant: who should run it?
The sad history of Net1 and the Post Office shows that this is an important question
Putting Clients First: Centurion Law Group Rebrands as CLG
Pan-African legal and business advisory group Centurion Law Group has officially rebranded to CLG (https://CLGGlobal.com), underscoring a firm-wide commitment to innovation and growth. The rebrand aligns closely with the firm's mission to consolidate its position as the leading legal practice and business advisor in an ever-evolving energy environment. With the rebrand, clients can expect expanded service offerings and elevated levels of excellence, as the firm moves to become the go-to legal platform for the African continent.
CLG's rebranding responds to growing client and shareholder demand for leadership in tackling complex legal issues across all energy sectors. As one of the continent's fastest-growing industries, energy is undergoing significant development and rapid change. The rebrand positions CLG to support these developments with a team of internationally-trained lawyers offering a suite of comprehensive services.
The firm's team of experienced legal professionals offers an in-depth understanding of the market and excels at navigating complex operating environments. CLG is the preferred professional services partner in Africa, equipped to offer on-the-ground support across multiple sectors.
CLG's rebranding journey is driven by several key motivations, including strategic differentiation, a more streamlined identity, global appeal and expanded service offerings. The new brand identity reinforces the firm's commitment to excellence, while signaling a fresh perspective and approach to legal services. It also provides a modern corporate identity that resonates with clients and stakeholders across diverse markets and builds broader brand recognition.
As a firm, CLG has a rich history of spearheading transformative oil and gas transactions across Africa, setting it apart as the leading law firm for the oil and gas industry. With extensive experience and deep-rooted technical expertise in the sector, CLG has a proven track record of providing top-tier legal services and strategic advice to clients across the energy spectrum. Its team has successfully guided clients through complex regulatory landscapes, contractual negotiations and large-scale transactions.
The firm's comprehensive understanding of the industry and its nuances ensures it is well-equipped to handle all legal aspects of oil and gas projects. From exploration and production to refining and distribution, CLG offers tailored solutions that address the specific needs and challenges of its clients.
Operating in several markets including South Africa, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Mauritius, Ghana, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique and Germany, CLG prides itself on building lasting relationships with clients and delivering exceptional results. The firm's reputation for excellence and commitment to client satisfaction makes it the trusted choice for businesses operating in the energy sector.
CLG recently achieved several significant milestones, including securing a listing on the Open Market of the Düsseldorf Stock Exchange under Calvert International AG (CIAG). Founded in 2007, the firm has quickly established itself as a leading pan-African legal and advisory conglomerate, dedicated to providing innovative and strategic solutions to clients across the continent. With a focus on excellence, integrity and client satisfaction, CLG has played a central role in driving the growth and success of its clients in an ever-evolving business environment.
The firm's positive track record serves as a cornerstone for future success, and the CLG rebrand marks a pivotal moment in its journey, symbolizing a strategic shift towards greater success, resonance and impact within the global legal and business landscape. This transformation is not only cosmetic, but also underscores CLG's commitment to serving as a modern, dynamic and global-minded legal, business and tax partner.
“While we are proud of our accomplishments, our sights are set on the future, driven by an unwavering commitment to adapt, innovate and position our company for continued growth and success in an ever-changing business environment. CLG stands resolute in our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our clients and enhancing the scope and quality of our services,” stated CLG CEO Zion Adeoye.
“The rebranding to CLG signifies a new chapter for our clients as we enhance our focus on delivering exceptional legal, tax and business advisory services. Our clients can expect a more streamlined and impactful experience, backed by our unwavering commitment to their success,” Adeoye added.
Visit CLG's new website at https://CLGGlobal.com.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.
From Montana, Cape Town to Soweto: Local Basketball Club Aims for National Glory
In the heart of Cape Town, the Montana Vikings Basketball Club (MVBC) stands as a symbol of hope for the youth. Driven by a vision to transform lives and make a mark on the global basketball stage, this community-based organization is spearheading a movement that melds sportsmanship with social impact. Under the leadership of Shafiek …
Unlocking the Elegance of Ostrich Feathers: Fashion, Decor, and DIY Brilliance
Introduction Ostrich feathers have long captivated the imagination with their luxurious and elegant appearance, making them a favored choice for a variety of decorative and fashion purposes. This blog explores the various ways ostrich feather plumes can be utilized, focusing on four main products: centerpieces, individual feathers, feather boas, and adult angel wings. Each of …
Government committed to resolve SA challenges
Government committed to resolve SA challenges
While government has made significant progress in improving the lives of its citizens in the past 30 years, President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged that for millions of South Africans, the promise of 1994 has not yet translated into a meaningful change.
“That is why we must, and we will, continue to work in earnest to resolve the challenges that are holding back our progress,” the President said on Wednesday in Pretoria.
Addressing the launch of the 30 Year Review Report, he said there is room for improvement in growing the economy, addressing unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment.
The 30 Year Review Report reflects on the work the country has collectively undertaken to build a democratic, prosperous and free South Africa.
“We continue our efforts to overcome the energy crisis, to implement structural reforms to boost economic growth, to drive programmes that create more employment, and to improve the capacity of the state to deliver services,” Ramaphosa said.
He said the democratic breakthrough of 1994 represented both a decisive break with a painful past and an opportunity for South Africa to chart a new course.
WATCH | Launch of the of the 30 Years of Democracy Review Report in Pretoria
Strides made
“South Africa is a vastly different place compared to what it was 30 years ago. Guided by our Constitution and its Bill of Rights, successive democratic administrations have implemented progressive policies and programmes to uplift the material condition of all South Africans, particularly society’s most vulnerable,” the President said.
These policies have included the provision of basic services, housing, education, health care and social support.
“We have established a unitary, democratic state and created institutions to uphold democracy and promote accountability.
“We have an independent judiciary, a robust civil society, a free media and a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government.
“We have advanced transformative policies to change the racial and gender composition of the economy and the workplace. We have implemented laws to protect workers and advance their rights.”
Government has restored land to many who had been dispossessed and has provided emerging farmers with the means to productively use their land.
Challenges
“South Africa today is a valued member of the international fellowship of nations. We pursue a progressive foreign policy rooted in advancing the African Agenda, in social justice and solidarity, and in support of multilateralism. Yet we know that still much more needs to be done.
“We are contending with slow economic growth, high unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment. What is made clear by this Review Report is that the task of consolidating our democratic gains is not just the responsibility of the state. It is a responsibility that we all share.
“Just as we stood together to overcome COVID-19, just as we have united to confront other crises, we can overcome this period of difficulty in the life of our nation together,” the President said.
He said government was to create a better South Africa, a transformed South Africa, a South Africa that leaves no-one behind.
“The story of 30 years of democracy contained in this report is an honest and critical appraisal. It presents both light and shade, both progress and challenges. It is a vital reference for anyone who wants to understand the last 30 years and for everyone who wants to look into our future.
“It is our hope and expectation that this Review Report will be studied in detail and that its findings will be applied. This 30 Year Review Report is much more than a chronicle of a changing nation.
"As we chart the path ahead for our democracy, we will look to this Report as a valuable instrument for transformation, progress and growth. Let us make this a living document that inspires, encourages and guides us as we continue to build a democratic, prosperous and free South Africa,” the President said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 05/08/2024 - 13:55
412 views