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Work underway to resolve KZN water woes

Location: News

Work underway to resolve KZN water woes

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) says it is working tirelessly to assist municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal that are facing water challenges.

This after the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) released its final report and recommendations following an investigation into water challenges in that province.

“The challenges are known to the department, and the Ministry of Water and Sanitation is working tirelessly to assist the municipalities in the province, which are Water Services Authorities (WSAs), to meet their constitutional obligation for water and sanitation services provision to citizens.

“The Blue, Green and No-Drop reports, released in June 2023, are regulatory and support mechanisms of the department for municipal drinking water quality, wastewater management and water conservation and demand management. [The reports] also provided evidence of the deteriorating state of water and sanitation situation in most of these municipalities.

“The department… welcomes the report and its recommendations, which align to the findings of the department. The department further acknowledges the critical task of improving the management of waste water and restoration of water quality and reliability of supply, and that this will require increasing investments, ensuring revenue sufficiency ,as well as professional and capable technical and managerial skills,” the department said in a statement on Friday.

The DWS explained the steps it is taking to address these challenges, including funding of some R7.8 billion for several water infrastructure projects.

“Through its water entity, uMngeni-uThukela Water Board, the department has also allocated nearly R2.3 billion for the following projects: Greater Mpofana Bulk Water Supply Project in uMgungundlovu District; the Maphumulo Bulk Water Supply Project in iLembe District; UMshwathi Bulk Water Supply Project servicing both uMgungundlovu and iLembe Districts, and Lower uMkhomazi Bulk Water Supply Project in eThekwini. 

“uMngeni-uThukela Water Board is also implementing a Bulk Regional Water Scheme for Alfred Duma Local Municipality in uThukela District Municipality, at an estimated cost of R5 billion.

“Earlier this year, Minister Mchunu commissioned the completed Spring Grove Water Treatment Plant in Rosetta and Bruntville Reservoir in Mooi River, in the uMgungundlovu District, KwaZulu-Natal. It is one of the largest rural-based projects to be implemented in recent years and is aimed at providing access to safe drinking water to Mpofana and uMngeni Local Municipalities,” the department said.

According to the statement, the Minister has also invoked Section 63 of the Water Services Act in uMkhanyakude District Municipality.

“This involved providing strong support and direction to the municipality regarding the management, operation and maintenance of its water and sanitation infrastructure in order to restore services within the district.

“The uMkhanyakude District’s multibillion rand water projects include the Greater Ingwavuma Bulk Water Supply Scheme in Jozini Local Municipality, which will supply Jozin, Big Five Hlabisa and Mtubatuba municipalities, and the Mtikini Water Supply Scheme in Umhlabuyalingana Local Municipality, which will supply safe drinking water to the communities of Skhemelele, Mtikini and eScabazini.

“Ugu District Municipality has also been experiencing difficulties with water and sanitation service delivery, due to old and strained infrastructure and growing demand, exacerbated by illegal connections and vandalism. To address this, the department has allocated R150 million from the WSIG to the district in order to address immediate challenges,” the statement read.

Other steps taken by the department include:

  • Establishing a water partnerships office within the Development Bank of Southern Africa  “to encourage and stimulate strategic partnerships with the private sector to invest in water infrastructure”.
  • Reconfiguring water boards “to enable them to give more support to the under-capacitated WSAs”.
  • Establishing the uPongola-Mzimkulu Catchment Management Agency (CMA), which will be tasked with decentralised water resource management and the protection of all rivers in KwaZulu-Natal.
  • A notice has been gazetted to transform the existing Irrigation Boards to Water User Associations, in terms of Section 98 of the National Water Act.

“While all the support provided above is necessary, it is not sufficient to reverse the decline in water services. There is also a need for legislative reform, and the department will shortly be gazetting an amended Water Services Act, which will strengthen and clarify the role of municipalities as Water Services Authorities to ensure that Water Service Providers provide water services in accordance with minimum norms and standards.

“The amendments will also enable the national department to intervene more decisively a last resort when municipalities fail to respond to directives to address deficiencies in the provision of water and sanitation services,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 09/24/2023 - 14:42

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Read moreWork underway to resolve KZN water woes

The Versatility of Heavy-Duty Plastic Chairs, Plastic Party Chairs, and 240-Litre Wheelie Bins

Location: MyPR

Introduction: In a world where sustainability and durability are becoming increasingly important, heavy-duty plastic chairs, plastic party chairs, and 240-litre wheelie bins have emerged as practical and versatile solutions. These seemingly mundane objects play crucial roles in our daily lives, offering convenience, reliability, and sustainability. Let’s delve into the world of these three indispensable items …

Read moreThe Versatility of Heavy-Duty Plastic Chairs, Plastic Party Chairs, and 240-Litre Wheelie Bins

A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnostic Imaging and Procedures in Healthcare

Location: MyPR

Introduction: In today’s world of modern medicine, diagnostic imaging and procedures play a crucial role in the early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of various medical conditions. These tools help healthcare professionals gain valuable insights into a patient’s health, enabling them to make informed decisions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into some of the most …

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Versace Perfumes and Colognes: Fragrances that Define You

Location: MyPR

Versace Perfumes and Colognes: Fragrances that Define You Scents express your unique personality – they become a way to show who you are. When it comes to fancy fragrances, there’s one name that’s all about luxury, creativity, & timeless charm: Versace.  Versace is a famous Italian fashion brand that also creates exceptional perfumes and colognes …

Read moreVersace Perfumes and Colognes: Fragrances that Define You

An ‘Afternoon Tea’ Experience at Walkersons Hotel & Spa

Location: MyPR

Tea and Scones – a signature Walkersons delight When it comes to indulging in British culinary traditions, the charming ‘afternoon tea’ tradition of with tea and scones stands out as a quintessential delight. Synonymous with leisurely gatherings, the appreciation of fine teas and a delectable array of tea-time treats, afternoon tea originated in 19th century …

Read moreAn ‘Afternoon Tea’ Experience at Walkersons Hotel & Spa

Mulaudzi and Desta the athletes to beat at Absa RACE YOUR CITY Series finale in Joburg

Location: MyPR

The 2023 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series will culminate with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K on Sunday 24 September 2023, and promises to be an extraordinary final with a star-studded field of elite athletes ready to light up the streets of Jozi. Leading the charge in the men’s race will be the in-form …

Read moreMulaudzi and Desta the athletes to beat at Absa RACE YOUR CITY Series finale in Joburg

Be cautious of cybercrime

Location: News

Be vigilant of cybercrime

Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Faith Mazibuko, has called on the public to be wary of cybercriminals targeting unsuspecting individuals on various social media platforms.

 “The public must be aware of cybercriminals, who target unsuspecting individuals on various social media platforms with the purpose of causing harm, demanding ransoms and scamming,” the MEC said on Thursday.

This follows the kidnapping of a University of the Witwatersrand student on Tuesday in Johannesburg.

The student was reported missing by his roommate on Tuesday in Johannesburg.

According to reports, the student was lured to the suspects through the dating site, Grindr. The suspects demanded an amount of R30 000 from the student’s family for his safe return.

A team comprising members from Gauteng Crime Intelligence, Organised Crime Investigations, Hillbrow Detectives, Johannesburg Trio Detectives, Johannesburg Metro Police K9, security companies - including Vision Tactical, JT VIP, CAP Security, Fidelity Strategic Team - and Cellular Data Investigation, operationalised the information that led them to an ATM, where one of the suspects was expected to withdraw the ransom money on the M2 Road. 

The police held an observation and placed the suspect under arrest as soon as he arrived. He then led the team to Denver Men's Hostel, where the victim, aged 18, was found bound and unconscious.

Seven suspects were arrested, while three knives and the student’s personal items were also recovered. The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela, has commended the swift response by a multi-disciplinary team for the rescue.

The MEC commended the rescue team for their efforts.

 “I would like to commend the heroic law enforcement officials, who carried out the rescue operation. The successful apprehension of the suspects is a result of collaborative efforts by various law enforcement agencies and private security companies,” said MEC Mazibuko. – SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Fri, 09/22/2023 - 09:38

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Read moreBe cautious of cybercrime

Land claim issues should be treated as a matter of urgency – Mashatile

Location: News

Land claim issues should be treated as a matter of urgency - Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has labelled the issue of land claims as sensitive and one that needs to be treated with the utmost urgency it deserves. 

The Deputy President was on Friday responding to questions in the National Assembly on progress achieved by government in resolving land claims, as part of the land reform programme.

Speaking to Members of Parliament (MPs), he said as of June this year, there were 5 407 outstanding old order claims instead of the 6 600, as indicated by a Parliamentarian, who had posed a question to the Deputy President.  

“There has been some movement now that is taking place,” he assured MPs. 

Meanwhile, the Deputy President said government has since adopted several interventions to support the acceleration of land reform programmes. 

This, according to Mashatile, includes the Expropriation Bill that is currently being considered by the National Council of Provinces. 

“The Land Court Amendment Bill, which includes provisions for communal land transfer, registration, title and appointment of a land rights enquirer, has been sent to the President for assent.” 

The bill, Mashatile explained, aims to regulate the administration and use of communal land by communities within the framework of the applicable laws, including spatial planning and land use management. 

The Deputy President noted the revision of the Property Valuation Act to provide for the precise scope of the Office of the Valuer-General and methodology to determine just and equitable compensation. 

In addition, the State is identifying land needs within cities and towns to inform the land reform programme, prioritising land needs for human settlements, and industrial, economic and urban agricultural development. 

This move, the Deputy President, aims to change spatial patterns and enhance socio-economic advancement. 

He told MPs that the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform and Agriculture will continue to review the best plausible options to improve the overall financing of the Backlog Reduction Strategy, as introduced by the Commission. 

The Deputy President believes that this will help to accelerate the settlement of old order claims so that government can resolve this matter within a reasonably shorter period. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 09/22/2023 - 12:26

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Read moreLand claim issues should be treated as a matter of urgency – Mashatile

Developed economies urged to accelerate climate action

Location: News

Developed economies urged to accelerate climate action

President Cyril Ramaphosa says developed economy countries, in particular, must act with urgency to accelerate the reduction of emissions, fulfil their obligations and honour past promises.

The President was speaking at the Climate Ambition Summit on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA.

The President told world leaders that Africa has witnessed with increasing alarm the effects of climate change, environmental degradation, unsustainable production and resource scarcity on human health and well-being. 

“As countries across the globe seek practical ways to build back better from the COVID-19 pandemic and multiple crises, we are presented with an unprecedented opportunity to set the global economy on a more equitable, environmentally sustainable and low-carbon developmental trajectory.

“Despite having little responsibility for causing global warming, Africa is warming faster than the rest of the world. Like other parts of the Global South, the continent is significantly affected by climate change. As such, climate actions cannot be separated from the drive for sustainable and inclusive development,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The President science sends a clear message that the world is not on track to meet the goals contained in the Paris Agreement. He emphasised that this Climate Ambition Summit must instil the necessary urgency and propel the actions that are needed now to prevent the destruction of the planet and the devastation of societies. 

Earlier this month, African leaders adopted the Nairobi Declaration on Climate Change and Call to Action, which recognises that decarbonising the global economy is an opportunity to contribute to equality and shared prosperity.

To achieve this vision of economic transformation, African leaders have called on the international community to support efforts to massively increase Africa’s renewable energy capacity by 2030.

“They are seeking investment in smart, digital and efficient green technologies to decarbonise the transport, industrial and electricity sectors in African countries.

“They have called for support to strengthen actions to halt and reverse biodiversity loss, deforestation and desertification. And to boost agricultural yields through sustainable agricultural practices,” the President highlighted. 

Structural reform to promote just and inclusive transitions 

President Ramaphosa said structural reform is needed to promote transitions that are just and inclusive.

He said global and regional trade mechanisms must enable products from Africa to compete on fair and equitable terms. 

“Trade related environmental tariffs and non-tariff barriers must be the product of multilateral agreements. They must not be unilateral, arbitrary or discriminatory.

“The multilateral financial system must build resilience to climate shocks and better leverage the balance sheets of multilateral development banks to scale up concessional finance. Developing economy countries also require new, predictable public finance to support climate adaptation and build resilience to loss and damage.”

The system, President Ramaphosa said, needs to provide interventions for debt management and relief to prevent debt default.

“The actions necessary now must not place an undue burden on the citizens of tomorrow.”

The President emphasised that financing for climate action should respect the right of all countries to pursue their own development pathways, while taking into account their specific national circumstances.

“As South Africa implements its ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution, which is aligned to the Paris Agreement temperature goals, we see new opportunities for green growth and development.

“With abundant solar and wind resources, with significant reserves of critical minerals, South Africa is positioning itself to be a leader in renewable energy, green hydrogen and sustainable industrialisation,” he said. 

Due to regulatory changes and a surge of investment, South Africa has a confirmed pipeline of renewable energy projects in development that are expected to produce in excess of 10 gigawatts of electricity.

South Africa has also established a Just Transition Framework to ensure that climate actions adhere to principles of procedural, restorative and distributive justice.

“We are committed to building resilience to the impact of climate change and reducing our emissions in ways that are appropriate to our national circumstances and development pathways.

“As South Africa, and as the African continent, we are working to give substance to our assertion that no country should ever have to choose between development aspirations and climate action,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa called on the summit to demonstrate that the leaders of the world are committed to ambitious climate actions that are inclusive, comprehensive and leave no one behind. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 09/21/2023 - 11:24

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Read moreDeveloped economies urged to accelerate climate action

From South Africa with Love: Bokomo’s Special UK Heritage Day Delivery

Location: MyPR

With over 300,000 Saffas (South Africans) proudly calling the United Kingdom home, it’s no secret that living abroad comes with its share of longing for the taste of home. Whether it’s the braais, the warm sun or even iconic South African brands, we know you miss it all. That’s why Bokomo is here to bring …

Read moreFrom South Africa with Love: Bokomo’s Special UK Heritage Day Delivery

Reform the international financial architecture – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Reform the international financial architecture – President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for the reform and strengthening of financial architecture where developing countries participate equally in the decision making process of the international economic order.

The President said he welcomes the numerous initiatives to assist the most pressing needs of countries in dire stress. These include the Food Shock Window, Resilience and Sustainability Trust and the G20 Common Framework for Debt Treatment.

“However, sustainable and inclusive growth requires that more be done. We must strengthen and reform the international financial architecture. Developing economy countries must participate equally and meaningfully in the decision-making process of the international economic order,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa was delivering remarks at the High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Development Summit on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA.

The statesman told world leaders that humanity is confronted with the convergence of a climate crisis, recession, increasing conflict, environmental degradation, rising food insecurity, deepening poverty and unacceptable levels of hunger.

He highlighted that when the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development was agreed upon, the overarching principle was that the most vulnerable would receive the support they needed.

“Yet, at a time when solidarity was needed most, agreed international commitments were not honoured. Principles such as common but differentiated responsibilities are not being respected.

“Four decades since the right to development was established by the United Nations as a human right, the failure to act on commitments to support development is deepening the divide between the global north and south. 

“The Addis Ababa Action Agenda provides concrete plans for supporting development and we again call on our partners to support these plans,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa further called for the mandates of multilateral development banks to be reframed to respond to the needs of developing economies. 

He emphasised that “we must assert the principle of country ownership”.

“Multilateral development banks should support projects and programmes that are aligned to the development priorities and climate commitments of these countries.

“The international tax system must reflect the diverse needs and capacities of both developed and developing economies,” he said. 

The President added that more innovation is required to enable the private sector to play a greater role in addressing the finance gap. He said this includes a new approach to blended finance with a focus on the developmental impact of investments. 

He underscored that credit ratings of developing economies, and African economies in particular, need to be based on economic fundamentals and not on subjective assessments. 

Public finance is critical for development

President Ramaphosa said developed economy countries need to fulfil their commitment to contribute at least 0.7 percent of their gross national income towards official development assistance. 

They also need to fulfil their commitment to mobilise $100 billion a year to tackle climate change. 

“As South Africa, we therefore welcome the recommended actions contained in Secretary-General’s Report on ‘Our Common Agenda’. In the interests of our common progress and the survival and prosperity of future generations, we must act now.

“South Africa encourages all world leaders, global institutions and private sector partners to work together to address the current crises, close the finance divide, reduce inequality, eradicate poverty and make sure that no-one is left behind,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 09/21/2023 - 11:26

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Read moreReform the international financial architecture – President Ramaphosa

Names of officials who died in SA Navy submarine disaster released

Location: News

Names of officials who died in SA Navy submarine disaster released

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has named the officials who lost their lives on Wednesday in a navy vessel incident off Kommetjie, near Cape Town. 

The SANDF identified the submariners as Lieutenant Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector, Master Warrant Officer William Masela Mathipa and Warrant Officer Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela.

The three submariners died when a high wave swept seven crew members out of the sea. 

According to the SANDF, the SA Navy submarine was en route to Cape Town while conducting a vertical replenishment submarine by means of a SA Air Force Maritime Lynx helicopter when the incident occurred.

“A distress call was made to Cape Town Radio ,who were then dispatched to the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) from Kommetjie. 

“All seven members were recovered but sadly there were three fatalities, with one senior official in critical condition,” the SANDF said.

The remaining members, including the surface swimmer, are currently being treated in hospital. 

According to the NSRI, the SANDF, SA Air Force, SA Navy, military medical personnel and military police responded, while SA Navy vessels in the area replied to the call as well.

“Two NSRI Kommetjie rescue craft arrived on the scene, one nautical mile off-shore of Slangkop Lighthouse, where three male casualties were rescued onto one NSRI rescue craft and four male casualties were rescued onto one NSRI rescue craft.

“CPR [cardiopulmonary resuscitation] efforts were initiated on two of the men and once ashore at the Kommetjie slipway, CPR was continued on both men by paramedics who, after all CPR efforts were exhausted, sadly they were both declared deceased.” 

The NSRI said one SA Navy officer remained on board the naval vessel and in a coordinated operation, where the adult female was extricated from the vessel and CPR efforts were commenced.

“NSRI Hout Bay dispatched a NSRI rescue craft and crew to assist at the Navy vessel. 
Sadly, despite extensive CPR efforts, the female officer was declared deceased.” 

An inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the incident will be convened in due.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans and her Deputy, Chief of the SANDF, Chief of the SA Navy and Flag Officer Fleet have since extended their sincere condolences to the family members of the deceased. 

“The SANDF further extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to the emergency services who assisted in the recovery of the stricken submarines.” 

According to the SA Navy, the bereaved families have requested privacy during this difficult time and have asked media and the public to respect their wishes. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Thu, 09/21/2023 - 15:06

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Creating Your Perfect Bedroom Oasis: A Guide to Bedding Essentials

Location: MyPR

Introduction Your bedroom is your sanctuary, a place where you can relax and recharge after a long day. To make this space truly your own, it’s essential to invest in quality bedding essentials that not only provide comfort but also reflect your personal style. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the world of bedding, from …

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