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One million parcels delivered: Cotton On and DPD share a momentous partnership milestone

Location: MyPR

In South Africa’s rapidly evolving e-commerce sector, the crucial role of last-mile delivery is increasingly prominent. As online shopping becomes more prevalent, efficient and reliable delivery services have become pivotal. The strategic alliance between Cotton On, a prominent fashion retailer, and DPD ZA, a leading logistics provider, particularly in handling over one million parcels and mastering the demands of Black …

Read moreOne million parcels delivered: Cotton On and DPD share a momentous partnership milestone

Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated

Location: News

Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated

A total of 985 applications for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) have been initiated by prospective applicants with 131 completed applications submitted that meet all application requirements.

This follows the opening of the TEF application process for businesses on 6 November 2023. 

The Department of Tourism, together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa), an agency within the Department of Small Business Development, announced the opening of the application process for TEF on 2 November 2023, after Cabinet’s approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF implementation in September 2023.

The R1.2 billion fund aims to increase growth, transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Sector Codes. 

The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector. 

According to a Sefa report, the 131 submitted applications represent a combined investment value of just over R2 billion.

Sefa reported that some of the 131 applications formally submitted have already been pre-screened, while pre-screening for the remaining applications will be completed by the end of the year. 

Although no specific information is available yet on the type of enterprises, or the nature of projects for which TEF support have been applied for, Sefa’s preliminary report that 45 of the registered applications originated from Gauteng, 21 from KwaZulu-Natal, while between 10 and 14 applications were submitted between Limpopo, North West, Western Cape and Eastern Cape and with only one from the Free State. 

Subsequent to basic or pre-screening, Sefa explained that the applications are subjected to a due diligence process, which includes a more detailed assessment of financial viability, Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) compliance and reporting, credit and legal checks before preparation for presentation to the relevant investment committee for final adjudication.

“Depending on the readiness of projects, the applications may potentially be presented at upcoming committee meetings that Sefa has provisionally scheduled in Quarter 4 between January and March 2024,” the agency explained.

Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, said the department is encouraged by the level of interest and applications to the Tourism Equity Fund, which is aimed at driving empowerment and transformation to support the growth of new and emerging enterprises in the tourism sector. 

“This is in line with our aims as government to support investment by the private sector to grow an inclusive tourism sector that can continue to contribute to the country’s economy and job creation. We will continue to keep businesses and the public updated on this important project in the coming weeks and months,” de Lille said.

The TEF will be implemented by:
•  Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
•  Department of Tourism and Sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
•  Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses. 

The Minister said Sefa will implement, execute, and manage the fund through a fund management agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis. 

“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses. 

“The fund will focus on tourism enterprises in the accommodation, hospitality and related sectors-, and travel and related services-subsectors. The TEF will consider applications for start-ups, acquisitions, expansion and development projects in line with the Tourism B-BBEE sector codes,” de Lille said.

With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.

For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process visit: https://www.tourism.gov.za/CurrentProjects/Tourism_Equity_Fund/Pages/Tourism_Equity_Fund.aspx. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:12

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Read moreOver 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated

Happy holidays to every! 

Location: News

Happy holidays to all! 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished all South Africans well this holiday season. 

Holiday festivities are expected to kick off in earnest this weekend, as people living in the country come together to prepare to celebrate Christmas or the end of year holiday season. 

“As we look back on the year, we are reminded once more of the great South African spirit that gives us courage, hope and the will to persevere.

“We pay tribute to citizens from all walks of life, who are working to make ours a country of shared freedom, equality and prosperity, where no one is left behind,” he said. 

With New Year’s Day just over a week away, the President said this is a time for hope for the future. 

“We look to the next year with hope. May we continue to draw from the deepest wells of resilience, humanity and compassion that make us who we are. Wherever you are this festive season, I wish you well,” President Ramaphosa said.

In his last weekly newsletter for this year, the President acknowledged that South Africa has endured a difficult 2023. 

He said that while “times are still tough”, much progress has been made but there is “still some way to go”.

“What is most important is that we have done much of the groundwork needed to put our economy on a path of faster growth and job creation. By working together, by staying the course, we have used the last year to lay the basis for a better 2024,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 09:22

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Read moreHappy holidays to every! 

Minor Hotels Signs Deal for Visionary Safari Experience in Zambia

Location: MyPR

Minor Hotels Signs Deal for Visionary Safari Experience in Zambia Anantara Kafue River Tented Camp to launch in 2025 in Kafue National Park Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator and investor with more than 540 hotels in 56 countries in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe and the Americas, is …

Read moreMinor Hotels Signs Deal for Visionary Safari Experience in Zambia

Health department welcomes recall of lubricating gel

Location: News

Health department welcomes recall of lubricating gel

The Department of Health has welcomed the recall of the medical lubricant gel called Lubri-A, otherwise known as Sterile Lubricating Jelly. 

This, after at least 380 patients developed a fungus infection, following use of the medical lubricant gel.  

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) undertook an investigation from January 2022 to December 2023 into an unusually high number of patients in hospitals across South Africa with positive cultures of a fungus called Wickerhamomyces anomalus, previously known as Candida pelliculosa. 

“The Health Department applauds the NICD and the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority’s (SAHPRA) decision to recall the contaminated health product.”

This product, according to the department, has been used in both public and private health facilities for medical procedures such as insertion of urinary catheters and ultrasound-guided insertion of venous catheters.

According to the NICD, current evidence suggests that a potential source of this fungus may have been a contaminated medical lubricating jelly used by health professionals across the health system in the country.

“This could have introduced the fungus into the bloodstream or other body sites in some patients,” the department explained. 

“However, it is not yet certain if all cases in this outbreak represent true infections. A proportion of these cases may represent pseudo-infections. 

“A pseudo-infection is a positive culture in the laboratory without a true infection in the patient which may occur, for example, if there was fungal contamination of the patient’s skin by contaminated lubricating jelly before collection of a specimen.” 

An independent outbreak investigation conducted by the Western Cape provincial government earlier this year revealed that clusters of cases at two Cape Town hospitals may have been linked to the use of contaminated batches of lubricating jelly sachets. 

The department said most of the cases at one Western Cape hospital were assessed to be pseudo-infections. 

“This product has since been confirmed to be used by facilities with clusters of cases in several other provinces.” 

The NICD reviewed public-sector laboratory records from 1 January 2022 through to 4 December 2023. 

During this period, 380 patients with Wickerhamomyces anomalus positive specimens were identified in seven provinces. 

“The department is working closely with SAHPRA, the NICD and the manufacturer Electro-Spyres to ensure the product in question is no longer used and is recalled with immediate effect and that all unopened lubricant sachets or batches are returned through the usual distribution channels.”

Although there are no reports of fatalities linked to this contaminated product, the continued use of the product may place the health of patients at risk. 

“The NICD will support hospital teams to investigate individual patient cases to establish if lubricating jelly was used for any medical procedures before the positive culture and if patients had evidence of a true infection and any adverse sequelae.” 

The department has alerted the provincial health authorities and clinicians to place all suspected batches on hold until further information from the ongoing investigation is known.

“There is no need for members of the public to panic as the situation is under control. Healthcare professionals who have used this product have been urged to monitor their patients for any signs of an infection and to liaise with their local laboratories to check if any of their hospitalised patients have had a positive fungal culture after use of this product.” 

The signs or symptoms will depend on the body site that is affected.

Meanwhile, the department said the recall is limited to the product called LUBRI-A (2.5g and 50g sachets) and does not affect other lubricating gel products authorised for sale in South Africa. 

“The department will always prioritise the health of the population using safe and effective medical products to improve health status through the prevention of illness, disease and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 10:31

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Read moreHealth department welcomes recall of lubricating gel

K-9, rural safety units fabricate inroads in battle against crime

Location: News

K-9, rural safety units make inroads in fight against crime

The Mossel Bay, Overstrand and Swartland K-9 Units, in partnership with the areas Rural Safety Units (RSUs), continue to make inroads in the fight against crime, particularly in their communities. 

Between 4 and 17 December 2023, the units with various municipal law enforcement agencies and the South African Police Service, arrested 57 people for various crimes. 

Of the 57 arrested, 32 were apprehended in the Overstrand municipal area, three in Mossel Bay and 22 were arrested in the Swartland.

This is according to the Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety.

“In total, 18kg of dagga was confiscated in the last two weeks, along with more than 726 mandrax tablets. Other contraband, including West Coast Rock Lobster, their tails and abalone were also confiscated,” the department said.

It said the Mossel Bay K-9 unit had various operations, which included searches at two different addresses in Herbetsdale, where a combined total of 1kg of dagga, including more than 155 mandrax tablets and 21 plastic bankies, suspected to be tik, were discovered and confiscated. 

One person was also found with half mandrax tablets at a taxi rank in the Mossel Bay’s central business district. 

The department said the Swartland units had operations in Malmesbury, Moorreesburg, Riebeek-Valley, Vredendal, Vredeburg, Saldanha Bay, Yezerfontein and Piketberg with suspects arrested for among other things, dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, dealing in drugs and possession of stolen property.

The units also confiscated 505 mandrax tablets, 4kg parcels of dagga and 3 small zipper bags of tik. 

“Amongst others, the Overstand arrests included 9 for possessions of drugs; 2 for dealing in drugs, 5 for illegal possession of marine life and 9 wanted suspects. This unit confiscated 13kg’s of dagga, 6 mandrax tablets, 32 West Coast Rock Lobster, 35 West Coast Rock Lobster tails and 35 whole abandoned abalone,” the department said.

Western Cape MEC of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Reagen Allen, commended the K-9 and Rural Safety Units for their continued effort.

Allen said the provincial government has made a commitment that the province’s K-9 and Rural Safety Units will be more visible throughout the festive season. 

“These results are testament to their activity and effective execution. These units are demonstrating what the Western Cape Safety Plan seeks to achieve, particularly since we want our residents to live in improved and safer environments,” Allen said.

K-9 unit is a specialised group of law enforcement officers who use service dogs to perform the responsibilities of a general police officer. In addition to their usual duties, each K-9 officer is also a dog handler, meaning that they have to train and care for their canine partner. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 12:18

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Read moreK-9, rural safety units fabricate inroads in battle against crime

Public urged to follow instructions of firefighting authorities in Simon’s Town

Location: News

Public urged to follow instructions of firefighting authorities in Simon’s Town

The public has been urged to follow instructions from firefighters managing the wildfire in Simon’s Town.

“We have a strong and professional team on the ground, and we request that the public do not panic and work with us.

“Our officials will request residents well in advance if they need to evacuate, and all firefighting decisions being made is with the safety of the public as number one priority,” Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Anton Bredell said on Wednesday afternoon.

The fire has been burning since Tuesday morning and firefighting efforts are currently focused on the flank moving from Castle Rock towards Simon’s Town.

The Provincial Disaster Management Centre has availed provincial aerial resources to the Simon’s Town fire. Currently, there are four Huey helicopters and a spotter plane, as well as an Oryx helicopter from the South African Defence Force, deployed.

“Staff from Working on Fire, Volunteer Wildfire Services, NCC Environmental Services, the City of Cape Town and South African National Parks (SANParks) have through Tuesday night worked tirelessly to protect people and property until they could be supported with aerial water bombing again since daybreak today,” the MEC said.

While Simon's Town is being addressed, several wildfires in the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) also need attending to.

Firefighters from CWDM Fire Services, CapeNature, Winelands Fire Protection Association, NCC Environmental Services and aerial resources from Leading Edge has been engaged in active firefighting on several fronts.

The provincial government said a fire is burning through dense and inaccessible vegetation along the Berg River in the vicinity of the Berg River Dam outside Franschhoek.

Efforts are focused on preventing the spread to farms and nearby infrastructure. A fire in Du Toit’s Kloof outside Paarl is currently mostly contained, with ground crews attending to isolated hot spots, monitoring for flareups, and doing general mopping up work.

The Western Cape Provincial Government has budgeted R16 million for the current wildfire season.

“Fires due to natural causes, such as lightning strikes or rockfalls, account for less than 3% of all wildfires. The other 97% is caused either intentionally, 25%, or through negligence, 72%. These statistics show the huge role ordinary citizens can play to protect not only our natural environment, but also our personal safety and infrastructure, from runaway wildfires,” the MEC said.

Bredell asked that people report any sighting of a fire as quickly as possible to the closest authorities.

“Experience over many years has taught us that the faster the initial response, the better our chances are of successfully controlling a fire before it spirals out of control,” he said.

The following numbers can be contacted to report any fire sightings:

  • City of Cape Town: 107 or 021 480 7700 from a cell phone
  • Overberg: 028 425 1690
  • West Coast: 022 433 8700
  • Garden Route: 044 805 5071
  • Central Karoo: 023 414 2603
  • Cape Winelands: 021 887 4446

-SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 10:59

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Read morePublic urged to follow instructions of firefighting authorities in Simon’s Town

Radisson announces its first safari hotel in South Africa

Location: News
Radisson Hotel Group

Radisson Hotel Group (https://www.RadissonHotels.com) is proud to announce the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, its first Safari hotel in Africa and 11th hotel in South Africa. Tucked between two renowned nature reserves, Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon, the hotel is located 2km outside of Hoedspruit in the heart of the grasslands in the Limpopo province and just 20 minutes from Eastgate Airport.

Boasting majestic views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit (https://apo-opa.co/3TEcOPf) is surrounded by endless destination-immersing activities. Guests can take part in bucket-list safari adventures to spot local wildlife such as lions, rhinoceros, and elephants, go trekking on horseback, or take in the sprawling landscape from a hot air balloon.

Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit offers a range of room types from standard rooms with garden and mountain views to Premium Suites featuring their own private pools and relaxing outdoor seating areas to take in the natural landscape. With a contemporary Scandinavian design, the hotels 138 rooms and suites provide a calming setting with natural materials, wooden details and rich, earthy colors that pay homage to its African surroundings.

At the thatched roof restaurant, Mirage, guests can enjoy South African and Lebanese-inspired cuisine on the restaurant's wrap-around deck, with convenient access to a sunbathing area and pool in the summer, as well as an outdoor fireplace on cooler evenings. Pegasus restaurant offers fresh and wholesome Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican, and American-inspired dishes as well as gourmet ice cream and frozen cocktails, served alongside the adults-only swimming pool. At the hotel's third restaurant, Boma, guests can indulge in some of Africa's most popular delicacies such as the local sausage, Boerewors; Bobotie; and selection of game meat, while listening to the soothing crackling of the fire and stargazing in the clear night's sky.

“We are thrilled to open the doors of our first safari-inspired hotel in South Africa. The opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit marks our 11th hotel opening in South Africa and completes our own Golden Triangle Safari offering with exquisite properties in Cape Town and the recently opened Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya in Livingstone,” said Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East & Africa, Radisson Hotel Group.

“My team and I are thrilled to introduce the world to the perfect combination of hospitality with Radisson's renowned Yes I Can! Service philosophy and our unmatched safari-inspired setting. Our extensive offering will ensure guests have an unforgettable experience whether they are enjoying a family holiday, a serene couples escape, or a meeting and event in a unique backdrop,” said Charles McCarthy, General Manager of Radisson Hotel Safari Hoedspruit.

Featuring a planter roof and inspiring views of the surrounding grasslands, Radisson Hotel Safari Hoedspruit will offer a tranquil and rejuvenating escape at its Amani Spa. Guests can indulge in a variety of pampering treatments in the spa's five treatment rooms including a private couple's suite. The spa also features a health bar, hair and nail salon and a soothing steam room. A 24-hour fitness center is also accessible to guests looking to stay active during their stay and offers the latest modern cardio and strength training equipment as well as yoga or Tai Chi sessions tucked away among the grasslands.

The hotel's versatile meetings and events spaces consist of five different meeting venues, including comfortable boardrooms, meeting rooms, and a main banquet hall that can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Media contact:
Saadiyah Hendricks
Area Director, PR & Social Media, Middle East, Africa and Mediterranean
Radisson Hotel Group
saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com

Nataliya Tkachenko
Senior Global Manager Consumer PR
Radisson Hotel Group
nataliya.tkachenko@radissonhotels.com

Connect with Radisson Hotels on: 
LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3xoxlLd)
Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/40Yykz4)
Twitter (https://apo-opa.info/3YyivgX)
Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3JrvtXH)  
YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3XxZrhu)

Connect with Radisson on: 
LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/43BJeMm)  
Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/43NKyLW)
Twitter (https://apo-opa.info/3JbVF9s)  
Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3qAEPul)  
YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3qAEYxT)

Radisson Hotel Group: 
The Radisson family of brands can be found around the world in more than 120 countries, with currently over 1,700 hotels in operation and under development. Radisson Hotel Group operates the business in EMEA and APAC with over 1,150 hotels in operation and under development. The international hotel group is rapidly growing with a plan to significantly grow the portfolio. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos. 

The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.  

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.info/3Ir36tx) is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. 

Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.info/3xmLTuL) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.  

At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (https://apo-opa.info/40VCkR2) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved near-term Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as 100% carbon neutral Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics. 

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members. 

For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.info/42HIP9S). 

About Radisson: 
Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian inspired hospitality, which enables guests to find more harmony in their travel experience. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment. We are committed to helping our guests find the right balance for their stay, removing the discomforts travelling may bring and enabling them to switch off and relax, using our Yes I Can! attitude to ensure satisfaction of every guest. Radisson hotels can be found in suburban and city settings, near airports and leisure destinations. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards. 

Radisson is part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels. 

For reservations and more information, visit our website (https://apo-opa.info/3p4KNn5). 

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Radisson Hotel Group
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Government refurbishes Wolwekloof Nature Reserve project to attract tourists

Location: News

Government refurbishes Wolwekloof Nature Reserve project to attract tourists

Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille has handed over the multimillion rand refurbished Wolwekloof Nature Reserve Project in the Witzenberg Municipality to CapeNature in the Western Cape. 

The multimillion rand infrastructure maintenance project was funded by the Department of Tourism with the intension to stimulate demand by investing in tourist attractions to build and diversify the country’s tourism offerings. 

“Tourism is a key sector in our economy, injecting billions into the economy each year and providing much needed jobs for our people. We must therefore continue to work with urgency and work as partners to grow our tourism offering so that we attract more tourists to our beautiful country. The more tourists we welcome, the more investment and jobs the tourism sector can create,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

The Wolwekloof Resort in the Witzenberg Municipality, near Ceres, was one of the few facilities that people of colour could visit during the apartheid era and it was a place of many great memories for families and friends.

In recent years, the facility was closed to the public and was used by various government user departments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) until a few years ago when Cape Nature was afforded the opportunity to take over management of the resort.

“The maintenance work at the Wolwekloof Resort sought to preserve the quality of product offerings at the identified site, as well as enhance the visitors’ experience and destination competitiveness.

“The scope of work entailed upgrading the existing pools, installing a new pool slide and installing new fencing to pools, construction of new braai areas and construction of walkways. The project site was handed over for implementation in December 2022 with a contract value of R3.7 million and reached practical completion earlier this year,” the Minister said.

This project is part of the national maintenance and beautification of provincial State-owned attractions, which initially were a part of the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme.

Throughout the duration of the contract implementation, the project has provided employment to 11 general workers of which six were youth who have assisted in duties such as bricklaying, painting, paving and plumbing including any general construction duties.

Opportunities were also offered to six Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), who participated in skilled labour such as works installation and repairs.

Apart from the work done by the Department of Tourism’s contractor at the Wolwekloof Resort, the department also conducted infrastructure maintenance work at several other sites in the Western Cape.

“The investment by government into these projects is critical to our mission to provide quality and enjoyable tourist attractions to local and international visitors. Infrastructure investment by government is about creating the conditions for further investment and job creation by the private sector.

“We are also pleased that these projects have been able to employ people from surrounding communities to assist with job creation and poverty alleviation measures by government. Although the Department of Tourism’s work at Wolwekloof is now complete, CapeNature is still conducting an extensive amount of work in a phased approach,” the Minister said.

The Wolwekloof Resort project is still in phase one with more work to be done on the water and electricity infrastructure at the site by CapeNature in the next three phases.

CapeNature’s vision is to reinstitute the site for recreational and leisure purposes with a modern twist.

“While we hoped the facility could be opened in time for the peak summer tourism period, CapeNature will be completing a range of important work to get the site up to standard and envisages to open the resort to the public in the Spring of 2024. It is my hope that we will continue to work as partners, all three spheres of government, together with CapeNature to restore this important tourist attraction to its former glory and upgrade it to be better than before,” De Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 12/20/2023 - 10:20

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Read moreGovernment refurbishes Wolwekloof Nature Reserve project to attract tourists

Zapper and DP World team up for fan experience

Location: MyPR

Cricket hits a six with SA tech-driven fan experience Johannesburg, December 19, 2023 – Amidst the backdrop of South Africa’s 8-wicket defeat against India in the Pink Day One Day International, Zapper and its partners DP World Wanderers Stadium introduced an innovative fan experience system in South Africa yesterday. This innovation, particularly poignant given the match’s …

Read moreZapper and DP World team up for fan experience

MEC Marais mourns death of celebrity cook Fatima Sydow 

Location: News

MEC Marais mourns death of celebrity cook Fatima Sydow 

Western Cape Cultural Affairs and Sport MEC, Anroux Marais, has expressed shock and sadness at the passing of celebrity cook, Fatima Sydow, at the age of 50. 

According to a statement released by the family, Sydow passed away peacefully on Tuesday at Vincent Pallotti Hospital in Cape Town, after battling soft tissue sarcoma since 2020. 

She was surrounded by her immediate family. 

Marais said Sydow would be missed by everyone she touched with her warm personality, including the many fans of her hit TV show, Kaap, Kerrie en Koesisters.

“The sun will shine a little less brightly after Fatima lost her battle, so bravely fought, against soft tissue sarcoma, which has robbed the Western Cape of one of its most beloved residents. Her recipes were often short and simple enough for anyone to attempt. Yet the end product, often with Cape Malay flair, would always be so spectacular,” Marais said.

The MEC thanked Sydow’s family and loved ones for supporting her so that she might share her gift with the nation. 

“She made her mark and will be sorely missed by all those who knew and cared for her. Her life and work will live on through her recipes. I send my most heartfelt condolences and hope that you will find peace and strength during this difficult time,” Marais said. 

Sydow is a renowned culinary artist and beloved personality known for her exceptional culinary skills, infectious enthusiasm and warm personality.

The cook was born on 12 November 1973 to Abduraghmaan and the late Waseela (nee Davids) Sydow on the Cape Flats in Cape Town. 

“Her culinary odyssey commenced at the tender age of nine, standing alongside her mother, peeling potatoes, and cutting onions.

“Inspired by her mother's ability to perform culinary miracles with few ingredients; creating dishes that generously fed many hungry stomachs, Fatima found the spark that would ignite her own culinary journey,” said Marais.

In 2015, she published a book, The Journey of Cape Malay Cooking with Fatima Sydow.

She subsequently published three more books, Cape, Curry & Koesisters, Fatima Sydow Cooks, and My Story, My Heritage. 

Her funeral will take place on Wednesday in Cape Town. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 12/20/2023 - 11:04

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Read moreMEC Marais mourns death of celebrity cook Fatima Sydow 

DO MORE FOUNDATION and Capita Forge Early Years Climate Region for SA

Location: MyPR

Dubai, UAE, 08 December 2023 – Young children (0 – 8 years) stand out as one of the groups most vulnerable to the impacts of the climate crisis, which is already having detrimental effects on their health, development and well-being. In response to this reality, the UAE’s Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Abu …

Read moreDO MORE FOUNDATION and Capita Forge Early Years Climate Region for SA

Disaster teams respond to Dundee flood victims

Location: News

Disaster teams respond to Dundee flood victims

KwaZulu-Natal Disaster Management teams have swiftly responded to the disaster caused by devastating thunderstorms in and around Dundee, under Umzinyathi District, following inclement weather that wreaked havoc on Monday night.
 
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Centre preliminary reports, a thunderstorm, which lasted about 45 minutes, swept through Sithembile Township, outside Dundee, tragically claiming one life – an adult male who was struck by lightning and later succumbed to his injuries. 

Six people were also injured as roofs and walls collapsed on top of them. Some victims were rushed to hospital, while others received treatment in their homes.

The provincial Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) department said the damage caused includes flooding in numerous households within the township and fallen trees resulting in blocked roads. 

“There was also significant damage to infrastructure, including roads, fences, and bridges. Several businesses suffered losses, including farmers who lost livestock and crops. 

“Assessments indicate that about 173 households were damaged, affecting 1 211 people. The teams are still on the ground conducting further assessments,” the department said.

Meanwhile, another incident of destruction was also recorded in areas under Umgungundlovu District Municipality, where a few houses were damaged in different local municipalities. 

The department said no injuries or fatalities were reported to date, and assessments are also ongoing in the affected areas.

KwaZulu-Natal CoGTA MEC Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi has extended her heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and wished a speedy recovery to all people who sustained injuries.

Sithole-Moloi has encouraged all disaster management centres in the municipalities to continue conducting assessments and to help people affected by the incidents. 

The MEC assured that the disaster response teams will continue to provide relief to the affected families. 

Concerns about recurring devastating rains 

Meanwhile, Sithole-Moloi has raised the department’s concerns about the recurring devastating rains in the province, saying it is an alarming indication of the impact of global warming. 

She said the department has been issuing weather warnings and recently launched a Multi-Agency Disaster Awareness campaign, collaborating with various stakeholders to raise awareness, mitigate risks, and respond effectively to disasters. 

“While some weather incidents are unavoidable, we encourage our residents to heed warnings and relocate to safer areas when advised. We have also collaborated with other departments, such as Social Development and Human Settlements, to ensure that the victims receive support in different forms.

“Our teams have distributed blankets, plastic sheets, mattresses, and food parcels to the affected families as part of the relief efforts. Public facilities such as community halls have been made available for temporary shelter, although no families have opted for this option,” Sithole-Moloi said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 12/20/2023 - 11:26

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Read moreDisaster teams respond to Dundee flood victims

Former Lotteries Commission grant manager’s pension payout interdicted

Location: News

Former Lotteries Commission grant manager's pension payout interdicted

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has obtained a Special Tribunal order interdicting the R1.7 million pension payout due to former National Lotteries Commission’s (NLC) Grant Manager, Marubini Ramatsekisa.

This in a long-running action taken by the SIU following an investigation into the affairs of the NLC.

The probe has resulted in, amongst others, the freezing of millions of rands in assets and the implication of board members of the commission in serious allegations of fraud and corruption at the commission.

SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago explained that Ramatsekisa allegedly “orchestrated a scheme that resulted in the NLC losing approximately R4 million” and was a “key player” in a scheme to defraud the commission through active funding of a Non-Profit Organisation (NPO).

“The SIU’s investigation revealed that on 20 February 2019, Ramatsekisa prepared a proposal for pro-active funding and recommended that the acting chief operating officer approve pro-active funding of approximately R4 million to conduct a study that will assist in developing the Khoi-San language.

“Three weeks later, three people acquired and became directors of a dormant shelf company named Zibsicraft NPC. From the documents in the SIU’s possession, Zibsicraft NPC then applied to the NLC for grant funding. The application is not stamped, which means it was never processed by the client liaison officer. The application was dated 25 March 2019, ten days after they had acquired the company.

“The application was accompanied by financial statements prepared for the periods ending 28 February 2018 and 28 February 2019. However, the NPO only opened a bank account on 19 March 2019, six days before it applied for funding,” Kganyago said.

He added that some R2.2 million of the dodgy funding was allegedly siphoned “towards purchasing property for a church… [and] in the offer to purchase, the church was being represented by the former NLC Board Chairperson, Alfred Nevhutanda and his wife, Mrs Tshilidzi Rachel Nevhutanda”.

Kganyago said the unit intends to “institute civil proceedings against Mr Ramatsekisa to recover damages suffered by NLC because of his conduct”.

In September last year, SIU Head Advocate Andy Mothibi told the National Assembly’s Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry that the unit’s investigation had revealed some that some R279 million was siphoned out of the coffers of the NLC.

“This investigation has been so intense, massive and complex in terms of tracing the money but the investigation will reveal that. The amount of money that was under investigation in phase one was about R279 million. The evidence has indicated that this money was corruptly siphoned out of the NLC, with the assistance of certain executives and certain board members.

“This is an organised syndicate meant to siphon money from the NLC. We have used trace methods and technology that has led us to all the monies that we have traced. This investigation also entailed meticulous analysis of bank accounts and payment processes from various banks, and we traced which bank accounts benefitted and which ones benefitted corruptly,” Mothibi said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 12/20/2023 - 13:31

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Read moreFormer Lotteries Commission grant manager’s pension payout interdicted

In charge of the family vehicle this holiday season? This tyre information can safeguard your family on the road.

Location: MyPR

With your accommodation, bucket list and route planned, the next step before embarking on your festive road trip this year, is to assess if you have the correct tyres fitted to your vehicle for the application, activity and terrain you’re about to tackle. This is a necessary step to help protect you and your family …

Read moreIn charge of the family vehicle this holiday season? This tyre information can safeguard your family on the road.

Anti-corruption forum welcomes SAPS progress against construction mafia

Location: News

Anti-corruption forum welcomes SAPS progress against construction mafia

The Infrastructure Built Anti-Corruption Forum (IBACF) has welcomed the progress made by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies on the progress made to crackdown on the construction mafia.

The IBACF was formed in 2020 and is aimed at monitoring infrastructure projects and putting systems in place to detect and prevent corruption.

The forum comprises civil society, representatives from the built environment and various arms of government, including the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).

SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said hundreds of arrests have been made relating to illegal practices in construction.

“There are ongoing investigations in the sector by various law enforcement agencies that have led to consequence management such as asset recovery, disciplinary action, and criminal prosecution.

“It is against this background that the IBACF welcomes and congratulates the SAPS on their progress in addressing the construction sector mafia in South Africa. The SAPS has confirmed that the 712 cases referred for investigation have resulted in 722 arrests and 52 convictions so far,” Kganyago said.

According to Kganyago, at a recent meeting of the IBACF, the National Priority Committee on Extortion and Violence at Economic Sites reported that “the fight against fraud, corruption, and maladministration in the construction sector is gaining significant ground”.

“A notable recent arrest has been that of alleged 28s gang boss Ralph Stanfield and his wife, Nicole Johnson. Several Cape Town construction contractors had to abandon government housing construction sites following alleged acts of intimidation and violence.

“Thereafter, the Western Cape government’s Human Settlements Department awarded Johnson's company, Glomix House Brokers, the contracts for completing these abandoned projects,” the SIU said.

Kganyago explained that the construction mafia refers to groups of extortionists who attempt to forcefully extract protection fees from local construction companies and contractors or extort a portion of the cost of an infrastructure project, including specific individuals affiliated with the mafia being recruited to work on the site.

“The construction sector is one of the most important job-creating sectors in the country. Investment in the sector not only benefits the country through improved infrastructure but creates hundreds of thousands of jobs on construction sites and throughout the construction sector value chain.

“Research documents published during the last two years have revealed the impact of construction sector mafia on construction projects and investment in the sector. In the period leading up to 2022, up to R63 billion worth of projects were reported, and delayed or cancelled as a result of the extortion tactics and disruptions posed by construction mafia,” Kganyago said.

Community involvement

The SIU called on community members to report any illegality on construction sites.

“The IBACF encourages proactive community engagement to inform residents of the projects underway in their areas; of possible opportunities for legitimate sub-contractors and workers, and encourages all South Africans, who are aware of any criminal actions such as threats of violence or extortion that may lead to the loss of such projects and work opportunities, to report these crimes,” the SIU said.

Crimes of this nature can be reported to:

  • Any South African Police Service (SAPS) station;
  • The toll-free National Anti-Corruption Hotline on 0800 701 701; 
  • The Presidential Hotline on 17737 or email president@po.gov.za, and
  • The SIU Hotline on 0800 037 774.

“As the SAPS report back on arrests and convictions, we warn the public that there are consequences for people who engage in illegal activities within the construction sector. The IBACF thanks the whistleblowers and law enforcement agencies for their bravery and tremendous efforts in tackling these criminal matters,” Kganyago said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 09:55

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Read moreAnti-corruption forum welcomes SAPS progress against construction mafia