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WHO Welcomes Dr. Fabian Ndenzako as New Representative to Botswana

Location: News

World Health Organization (WHO), Botswana
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially welcomed Dr. Fabian Ndenzako as the new Head of Mission and WHO Representative to Botswana and the Southern African Development Community (SADC). A seasoned global health expert, Dr. Ndenzako brings with him over 25 years of experience in public health, including more than two decades of service within WHO across various regions and leadership capacities.

His appointment comes at a pivotal time, as WHO continues to deepen its collaboration with the newly constituted Government of Botswana, following the November 2024 elections. Guided by the WHO Country Cooperation Strategy (CCS) 2024–2027, Dr. Ndenzako will lead efforts aligned with Botswana's National Development Plan. These efforts focus on five strategic priorities: strengthening health systems toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC); delivering quality, equitable, and integrated health services across the life course; preventing and controlling communicable and non-communicable diseases; enhancing health security and disaster risk reduction management; and promoting multisectoral action for a healthier population.

Dr. Ndenzako is a medical doctor trained at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. He holds a master's in public health from the University of Oslo and a master's in development studies and diplomacy from the University for Peace in collaboration with UNITAR. His impressive academic background complements a broad and deep understanding of global health systems, policy, and diplomacy.

Prior to his appointment in Botswana, Dr. Ndenzako served as Acting WHO Representative in South Africa, based in Pretoria. He has also led WHO country offices in South Sudan (2021–2024) and Malawi (2018–2019), demonstrating strong leadership in navigating complex public health landscapes, managing crises, and mobilizing resources to strengthen national health responses.

Earlier in his career, Dr. Ndenzako served as Medical Officer for HIV, Hepatitis, and TB at the WHO Regional Office for Africa, supporting over 20 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa. His contributions included reviewing national health programs, developing strategies and guidelines, coordinating multi-country responses, and facilitating resource mobilization for health emergencies and epidemics.

He also brings valuable international experience from nearly a decade with the WHO Western Pacific Region, based in Papua New Guinea, where he supported regional responses to both communicable and non-communicable diseases. His work with governments, the United Nations, NGOs, civil society, donors, and international partners underscores his commitment to inclusive and collaborative public health strategies.

Now at the helm of WHO Botswana, Dr. Ndenzako is poised to steer the office's efforts toward impactful implementation of the biennial plan, support national health priorities, and strengthen regional coordination through SADC. His vast experience and visionary leadership are set to advance the health and well-being of the people of Botswana and the region at large.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO), Botswana.

Read moreWHO Welcomes Dr. Fabian Ndenzako as New Representative to Botswana

President Ramaphosa to Undertake Working Visit to the Kingdom of Lesotho

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Wednesday, 23 April 2025, undertake a Working Visit to Maseru, Lesotho, to Co-Chair the Second Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the Republic of South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho, with His Excellency Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane, Prime Minister of Lesotho. 

This South Africa–Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC) follows the Inaugural Session which was held in September 2023 in Pretoria.

The elevation of bilateral cooperation to a BNC level in 2022 was a recognition of the solid foundation upon which relations between the two countries are founded.

Further, it is a practical demonstration of the two countries' resolve that cooperation in various sectors should benefit all.

South Africa will use the upcoming session of the BNC to promote greater solidarity among countries of the region and the South in the light of geopolitical shifts.

South Africa will also underscore the strategic importance of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) and highlight a need to expedite the speedy implementation of Phase II of the project, taking into consideration the agreed timelines and allocated budget. 

 Many South African companies have made significant investments in Lesotho, which have created thousands of jobs.

The Bi-National Commission is expected also to reflect on the movement of people between the two states.

This week's engagement between the two countries will, among other discussions, focus on:

  • Fostering stronger political and bilateral relations between the two countries;
  • Deepening economic cooperation; 
  • Reviewing implementation of the outcomes of the inaugural session of the BNC and identifying new priority areas; and
  • Exchanging views on regional, continental and global issues of mutual concern.

The BNC will be preceded by the Meeting of Senior Officials (SOM) and the Council of Ministers Meeting scheduled for 22 April 2025. 

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by 15 Ministers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa to Undertake Working Visit to the Kingdom of Lesotho

VF Plus Demands Answers Regarding Tshwane’s Timberlands Housing Project

Location: News

The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) is concerned about the serious shortcomings and mismanagement of the Timberlands project in the Tshwane Metro. The Timberlands project is a social housing initiative by the Metro aiming to provide 607 housing units to residents who do not qualify for subsidised housing nor earn enough to qualify for home […]

The post VF Plus demands answers regarding Timberlands housing project in Tshwane appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.

Read moreVF Plus Demands Answers Regarding Tshwane’s Timberlands Housing Project

Residents in Parts of Centurion Still Without Power

Location: News

The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) shares the frustration of Centurion residents who have been without power since 4 April after a fire at the Brakfontein substation in Rooihuiskraal. Violence, however, will not solve the problem. On the contrary, it will only delay repairs to the substation. Power has been restored so some parts, Mall@Reds, […]

The post Residents in parts of Centurion still without power appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.

Read moreResidents in Parts of Centurion Still Without Power

President engages South African Council of Churches

Location: News

President engages South African Council of Churches

President Cyril Ramaphosa has hosted the first engagement between government and the leadership of the church since the start of the seventh Administration.

The President hosted the leadership of the South African Council of Churches (SACC) at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Friday under the banner of the Government of National Unity.

The meeting presented an opportunity for the SACC to introduce its new and recently elected leadership. 

“We welcome the opportunity to be introduced to the new leadership of the SACC and to discuss matters that concern the church and the people of South Africa,” the President said.
The meeting discussed a wide range of issues of national interest ranging from the National Dialogue initiative, government’s ongoing fight against crime and corruption and the access of state services. 

President Ramaphosa committed that the National Dialogue will bring together all sectors of society and encourage the participation of all South Africans.

“Importantly, the National Dialogue must be informed by extensive public consultation in localities facilitated by various sectors of society. It needs to give a voice to those in society who are not often heard, to people who are marginalised, to those who are most vulnerable to poverty, violence and exploitation,” the President said.

It is envisaged that the National Dialogue will build on the achievements of 30 years of democracy.

Among other things, it will need to address challenges of low growth and job creation, poverty and hunger, governance, corruption and fiscal constraints. It will also need to address gender-based violence and femicide, social fragmentation, racism and sexism, violence and the potential for instability.

Government also briefed the SACC on South Africa’s Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency along with regional and international issues of concern.

“The meeting heard about government’s ongoing work in implementing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission. This includes criminal investigations and prosecutions, the recovery of stolen funds, legislative amendments and strengthening institutions.

“Furthermore, government remains focused on strengthening and resourcing key institutions in the criminal justice system, like the NPA [National Prosecuting Authority], Hawks and SIU [Special Investigating Unit], this includes the establishment of the NPA’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption as a permanent entity to prosecute state capture and other significant corruption cases,” the Presidency said.

The President also committed government’s support for greater cooperation between churches and government bodies that are on the frontline of providing services to people – most notably the Departments of Home Affairs and Social Development.
He highlighted South Africa’s drive for an inclusive G20.

The President said dialogue with civil society and other non-government institutions will be conducted through various engagement groups. 

“Following the approach of the Brazilian Presidency, a G20 Social Forum will be convened. This will bring together representatives of the existing engagement groups and other segments of civil society including various faith formations.

“The President assured the church leaders that South Africa will continue to pursue an independent foreign policy and will not align itself with any of the major powers or blocs in the world,” the Presidency said.

Ramaphosa asserted that South Africa remains engaged in efforts to bring about peace and stability in various parts of our region and continent, especially through the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and African Union initiatives. 
“South Africa continues to use its participation in fora like the G20, BRICS, Non-Aligned Movement, African Union and United Nations to advance a rules-based multilateralism that is fair and inclusive. We are committed to the reform of global institutions to ensure that they represent the needs and interests of all countries,” the President said. -SAnews.gov.za
 

 

nosihle
Sun, 04/13/2025 - 09:21
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President Ramaphosa Meets With South African Council of Churches

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Friday, 11 April 2025, hosted the leadership of the South African Council of Churches (SACC) at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.  

The meeting was the first engagement between Government and the leadership of the church since the start of the 7th Administration under the banner of the Government of National Unity. 

The meeting presented an opportunity for the SACC to introduce its new and recently elected leadership. 

“We welcome the opportunity to be introduced to the new leadership of the SACC and to discuss matters that concern the church and the people of South Africa.

 The SACC is a cherished institution in our country. Over many decades it has made an invaluable contribution to peace, unity, development and transformation.

It has been a source of hope, guidance and inspiration not only to members of the Christian faith, but to all South Africans. 

The SACC has always been deeply concerned about the conditions in which our people live and has worked to improve their lives.

We appreciate the willingness and determination of the SACC to work with Government, with other faith formations and with other sectors of society to address these concerns,” said President Ramaphosa.

The meeting discussed a wide range of issues of national interest ranging from the National Dialogue initiative, Government's ongoing fight against crime and corruption and the churches accessing state services. The Government also briefed the SACC on South Africa's G20 Presidency along with regional and international issues of concern. 

“We support the National Dialogue initiative but emphasise that for it to have legitimacy, the process must be protected from being hijacked by political, economic, and societal elites. It must be inclusive — incorporating all sectors of society. We must confront our declining values and moral conduct, and address the dehumanisation caused by poverty and inequality. Like many South Africans, we as church leaders and congregants are deeply concerned by the political gamesmanship within the GNU, when urgent national challenges — especially those affecting the poor and vulnerable — demand serious and united attention,” said Bishop Sithembele Sipuka, SACC President. 

President Ramaphosa committed that the National Dialogue will bring together all sectors of society and encourage the participation of all South Africans.

It is envisaged that the National Dialogue will build on the achievements of 30 years of democracy.

 Among other things, it will need to address challenges of low growth and job creation, poverty and hunger, governance, corruption and fiscal constraints. It will also need to address gender-based violence and femicide, social fragmentation, racism and sexism, violence and the potential for instability.

“Importantly, the National Dialogue must be informed by extensive public consultation in localities facilitated by various sectors of society. It needs to give a voice to those in society who are not often heard, to people who are marginalised, to those who are most vulnerable to poverty, violence and exploitation,” said the President.

The meeting heard about Government's ongoing work in implementing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission. This includes criminal investigations and prosecutions, the recovery of stolen funds, legislative amendments and strengthening institutions.

Furthermore, Government remains focused on strengthening and resourcing key institutions in the criminal justice system, like the NPA, Hawks and SIU, this includes the establishment of the NPA's Investigating Directorate Against Corruption as a permanent entity to prosecute state capture and other significant corruption cases.

President Ramaphosa committed Government's support for greater cooperation between churches and Government bodies that are on the frontline of providing services to people – most notably the Departments of Home Affairs and Social Development. 

President Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa's drive for an inclusive G20. The President said dialogue with civil society and other non-government institutions will be conducted through various engagement groups. Following the approach of the Brazilian Presidency, a G20 Social Forum will be convened. This will bring together representatives of the existing engagement groups and other segments of civil society including various faith formations.

The President assured the church leaders that South Africa will continue to pursue an independent foreign policy and will not align itself with any of the major powers or blocs in the world.
 
 South Africa remains engaged in efforts to bring about peace and stability in various parts of our region and continent, especially through SADC and AU initiatives. 

“South Africa continues to use its participation in fora like the G20, BRICS, Non-Aligned Movement, African Union and United Nations to advance a rules-based multilateralism that is fair and inclusive. We are committed to the reform of global institutions to ensure that they represent the needs and interests of all countries,” said President Ramaphosa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa Meets With South African Council of Churches

Minister reaffirms commitment to efficient policing

Location: News

Minister reaffirms commitment to efficient policing

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has reaffirmed the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) commitment to realising an efficient, effective, and responsible police service.

“… I want to reaffirm our commitment. We are committed to realising an efficient, effective, and responsible police service; one that reflects the values and aspirations of our democracy. This is non-negotiable,” the Minister said.

Mchunu was addressing a media briefing on the outcomes of the recently held three-day National Policing Summit. 

“The people of South Africa demand policing that is efficient, effective, and accountable. The people of South Africa demand a police service that is worthy of their trust, and most importantly, the people of South Africa demand that we act.”

WATCH | 

At Friday’s briefing in Pretoria, the Minister said that the priorities of the police are to reduce murder, remove unnecessary firearms from communities, remove drugs, fight gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and organised crime.

The police are also aware of the increases in crimes such as kidnappings, extortion, cash-in-transit heists and stock theft.

Additionally, police have classified the provinces of Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, the Eastern Cape and Western Cape as hotspots.

“As a means of effectively reducing crime, we have identified several key enablers, inclusive of using and improving our technology, strengthening our crime intelligence, capacitating and upskilling our detective services, improving and expanding our forensic services and improving the general environment under which police officers work.

“We have made mention of the budgetary constraints, but we have also committed to maximising the budget allocated and the resources at our disposal. 

“Business has also come on board and through that partnership, there are projects aimed at capacitating, particularly our detective services, improving our technology and increasing our laboratories,” he explained.

Operations Room

Meanwhile, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola said that the summit engaged with seasoned researchers, academic leaders, the business sector, subject matter experts and community structures. The engagements were focused on how to turn the the tide, recalibrate and reposition the SAPS for the future.

“During the summit deliberations, we assessed the current state and performance of the SAPS, focussed on operational inefficiencies. We identified pragmatic strategies that will improve and advance maximum effectiveness in policing while strategically repositioning the SAPS to ensure long-term relevance, heightened professionalism and the restoration of public trust.

“The SAPS will establish a National Policing Summit Operations Room. This facility will house a permanent scoreboard that will track and trace progress on the resolutions of the summit periodically for the next five years. 

“We believe that this significant move will hold the management of the SAPS accountable to the nation, as we commit to turnaround the policing direction of this country,” Masemola explained.

Visibility 

The Commissioner added that the summit’s focus was not on theoretical discussion alone, but rather on diagnosing real operational challenges, understanding community perceptions and analysing systemic shortcomings.

“The summit placed special emphasis on rethinking how SAPS can maximise its impact within existing constraints while repositioning itself for long-term relevance, professionalism, and enhancing public trust in policing.

“The first day of the summit interrogated the difference between being seen and being felt in communities. While the SAPS often reports on patrols and deployments, the quality and impact of these efforts on safety perceptions was central to the conversation.”
Masemola explained that the discussions reflected a disconnect between visible policing efforts and actual community safety outcomes, prompting a call for a more intentional, impact-focused presence.

Masemola also hinted that the Summit touched on technology as a transformative tool in the modernisation of policing.
“Summit discussions addressed real-time crime tracking, GIS [ geographic information system] mapping, AI-driven analytics, and predictive policing. Participants discussed how these technologies can help SAPS anticipate criminal activity and deploy resources more efficiently.

“Emphasis was placed on data quality, interoperability of systems and the critical need for digital literacy within SAPS,” said the Commissioner.

President Cyril Ramaphosa officially opened the summit that was held at Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Gauteng on Tuesday.

READ | President calls for holistic overhaul of policing

The Summit, among other things, addressed the high levels of crime in South Africa by reflecting on current policing approaches and developing more effective methods for the South African Police Service. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 04/11/2025 - 12:48
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Review of White Paper on Local Government published for discussion

Location: News

Review of White Paper on Local Government published for discussion

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has officially published a discussion document on the Review of the 1998 White Paper on Local Government. 

According to the department, this represents a significant and necessary step towards creating a reimagined and results-oriented local government system in South Africa.

This document, published under Notice No. 6118 (Gazette: 52498) on Thursday, initiates a national discussion aimed at producing a revised White Paper on Local Government by March 2026.

According to the department, the review aims to incite fresh thinking, honest reflection, and decisive action toward building a fit-for-purpose local government system that truly serves the people of South Africa.

“This process is not about tweaking the symptoms. It is about confronting the root causes of dysfunction in local governance. We need to ask the hard questions, and more importantly, we need to answer them with the courage to act,” Hlabisa explained. 

He noted that the discussion document emphasises the interconnectedness and indivisibility of the four essential components of an effective local government system.

These include governance, institutional arrangements, service delivery and infrastructure, and financial arrangements.

In addition, the document aims to assess and revise outdated assumptions of the1998 White Paper on Local Government and strengthen cooperative governance among the three spheres of government. 

The initiative aims to align reforms with related efforts, including amendments to the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), the Municipal Structures Act, and the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA). 

It also seeks to enhance integration with traditional leadership, improve community participation, and address systemic challenges, such as municipal financial sustainability, over-politicisation, climate risk, and spatial inequality.

The Minister invites all South Africans, including civic organisations, academics, municipalities, and other arms of government, to participate in the consultation process.

The public participation is open until 30 June 2025. 

Submissions must be made in writing and can be emailed to WPLG26@cogta.gov.za; RichardP@cogta.gov.za and MaphutiL@cogta.gov.za  

Alternatively, comments may be submitted by post: 
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
Attention: Mr. Thabiso Richard Plank (WPLG26 Policy Review)
Private Bag X802, Pretoria, 0001

Physical Address:
87 Hamilton Street, Arcadia, Pretoria  

For access to the full discussion document and more information, visit: https://www.cogta.gov.za/index.php/docs/white-paper-on-local-government-1998-review-of-the-white-paper-on-local-government/. – SAnews.gov.za
 
 

Gabisile
Fri, 04/11/2025 - 11:28
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Technology to aid SA’s border management efforts  

Location: News

Technology to aid SA’s border management efforts  

Four advanced unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones and 40 body-worn cameras will be deployed for the first time at the country’s ports of entry over the coming Easter long weekend.

The drones are equipped with some of the most advanced night vision cameras in the world, including thermal detection technology.

Powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), the devices are able to recognise and lock onto heat sources, moving people, or vehicles. They can also travel at speeds up to 43 kilometres per hour and are capable of operating in remote rural areas without access to GPS and even underground.

Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said the launch of technology marks the biggest step forward for enhancing border security and management.

“Data shows that when we first trialled the use of drones over the festive season, the number of attempted illegal crossings that were successfully prevented, increased by 215%,” said the Minister.

WATCH | 

He added that the Border Management Authority (BMA) will now permanently deploy this cutting-edge technology on a fulltime basis.

“Our message to would-be illegal immigrants and smugglers is clear. We are now watching the borderline during the day, we are watching at night, we can see your body heat wherever you try to hide, and we will catch you. 

“As we roll out more and more cutting-edge technology, there are fewer and fewer places to hide for criminals who undermine our national security,” he said.

Schreiber explained that the cameras will be fitted to officials working in the port environment to detect and punish acts of corruption, while also monitoring the efficiency of officials.

“Importantly, the cameras are linked to a dedicated Digital Evidence Management System which ensures that all footage is admissible in court to ensure successful convictions.”

BMA Commissioner Dr Micheal Masiapato said the 2025 Easter Operation follows the successfully implemented 2024/25 Festive Season Plan which saw a steady increase of 5 084 251 travellers processed across 71 ports of entry.

“This plan builds on the successes and lessons learned from our previous operations, ensuring the advancement of robust mechanisms for safe and secure travel,” Masiapato said.

Heightened operations

Speaking at the media briefing in Pretoria, the Commissioner said that through the assistance of drone technology, previous deployments in the December-January operations were responsive and reactional to illegal movements.

“The increase in festive season movements prompted the BMA to officially begin with the Easter Planning Phase on the 1st of February 2025 through to the 14th of April 2025. 

“The Execution phase of the BMA’s Easter Operational Plan will run for a period of 10 days starting from the 15th to the 24th of April 2025, during which period deployments and intensified border operations will be heightened.
“We are here to serve the citizens of the country to deter any illegality at our ports of entry and border law enforcement area without fear or favour,” he said.

Masiapato said the Easter period is traditionally characterised by a significant spike in the movement of people and goods across the country’s ports, placing increased demand on the BMA to maintain optimal operational readiness.

“During this period, families travel for religious observances, holidays, and cultural gatherings, while traders and transporters increase activity in preparation for the long Easter weekend. 

“With the expected increase in attendance from the Zion Christian Church in Limpopo, more travellers are expected to move from our neighbouring countries into South Africa. These heightened activities bring both opportunities and risks, requiring a concerted and integrated operational response,” he said.

The BMA is undertaking training to equip eight officers to become expert drone pilots. They will operate the devices on a shift basis and will move around different ports in the country. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Edwin
Thu, 04/10/2025 - 12:39
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Read moreTechnology to aid SA’s border management efforts  

Declare a Disaster: End GBV Now

Location: News

GOOD Statement by Kaden Arguile,GOOD National Youth Chairperson 10 April 2025 Tomorrow, GOOD will proudly join Women for Change at the Union Buildings in Tshwane to hand over a petition calling for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) to be declared a National State of Disaster. This petition, initiated by Women for Change, has amassed nearly 150,000 signatures, […]

The post DECLARE A DISASTER: END GBV NOW appeared first on For Good.

Read moreDeclare a Disaster: End GBV Now

Systematic failures responsible George building collapse

Location: News

Systematic failures responsible George building collapse

An independent forensic investigation into the building collapse in George, in the Western Cape, has revealed systemic failures at multiple levels.

The report cites widespread non-compliance with regulatory standards and mismanagement by both the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) and project personnel as key causes of the incident.

The findings, presented by Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane during a media briefing in Pretoria on Wednesday, revealed a series of procedural and structural failures, including irregular project enrolment, inspection lapses, poor material quality, and violations of occupational health and safety (OHS) protocols.

The NHBRC initiated the investigation after the Neo Victoria project collapsed on 6 May 2024, killing 34 people and injuring many others. Several survivors are still recovering.

Homebuilder certification and grading process

The investigation uncovered serious irregularities in the registration process of the construction company. The firm misrepresented its capabilities and failed to disclose that it intended to construct a multi-storey building.

“This omission breached NHBRC’s policies, which require transparency regarding a home builder's intended project scope in technical capacity. By bypassing this rigorous process, a company in question compromised its registration and certification of the project,” Simelane said.

Enrolment certification irregularities

The enrolment process demonstrated significant non-compliance with the NHBRC's enrolment procedures, resulting in critical regulatory breaches and unauthorised approvals.

“The enrolment forms were processed on 11 July 2023 even though the construction start date was scheduled for 19 June 2023. Again, the official did not verify that a homebuilder was registered to construct despite the building plans showing that this was indeed a multistorey enrolment.

“Thus, a contractor was allowed to proceed with the construction of a multi-storey building without the proper enrolment. Even more disturbing was the unlawful use of other official’s credentials to enrol the first phase of the project. This demonstrated the breakdown in the NHBRC’s internal control system,” the Minister highlighted.

Deficient inspection model

The NHBRC inspections failed to meet internal protocols, and these included one inspection, which was conducted eight days after enrolment, exceeding the five-day window period, in line with the NHBRC’s inspection protocol.

“More worrying was that the inspection reports included units which were yet to be constructed.” the Minister noted.

Occupational health and safety adherence

The report revealed multiple OHS breaches, including unresolved safety concerns, the resignation of a safety consultant, and the complete absence of OHS enforcement protocols in NHBRC’s procedures.

Inspectors were not empowered to enforce safety compliance, leaving serious safety violations unaddressed. The investigation also revealed that several personnel performing critical tasks lacked qualifications in engineering or quantity surveying.

Significant shortcomings were found in the evaluation of the appointed technical manager, whose credentials were not adequately reassessed.

According to the report, this played a major role in the technical missteps observed during the construction.

The geotechnical report provided did not include crucial information, such as trial pit locations, Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) test results, and geological maps. This information is essential for foundation design and site preparation.

Additionally, George Municipality approved the building plans after construction had already begun.

Recommendations

To prevent future incidents, the report issued comprehensive recommendations for reform within the NHBRC and the broader construction oversight framework.

These include clearly specifying the type of buildings a homebuilder is certified to construct on NHBRC registration certificates; establishing a peer review team to independently assess high-risk projects such as multi-storey buildings; conducting a comprehensive competency skills audit of inspectors and develops a thorough due diligence process to evaluate all information submitted during the registration phase.

“The report went further to recommend that technical managers be full-time onsite during critical stages of construction, that inspection be conducted within five days and that NHBRC staff must not be allowed to use another staff member’s login credentials.

“The outcome of the investigation has also made recommendations that implicated officials be held accountable for their actions. 

“The charges that will be levelled against them include dereliction of duty, misconduct, negligence, dishonesty, and misrepresentation in official inspection reports. We will continue to monitor that this is done by following due process,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 04/10/2025 - 11:29
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Tshwane’s Economic Growth Plan

Location: News

GOOD Statement by Sarah Mabotsa,GOOD City of Tshwane Councillor and MMC for Economic Development and Spatial Planning 10 April 2025 GOOD is proud to be part of the drive to accelerate economic growth in South Africa’s capital city. In today’s Tshwane State of the City Address, Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya reaffirmed the metro’s commitment […]

The post CITY OF TSHWANE’S ECONOMIC GROWTH PLAN: REVIVING THE CAPITAL appeared first on For Good.

Read moreTshwane’s Economic Growth Plan

Deputy President Mashatile Convenes the Water Task Team

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has today, 08 April 2025, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, convened a meeting of the Water Task Team, comprised of the Ministers responsible for the Departments of Water and Sanitation, COGTA, Finance, Human Settlements, Public Works and Infrastructure, Agriculture, Police, Electricity as well as Land Reform and Rural Development.

The meeting took place following a successful Water and Sanitation two-day Indaba hosted by the Department of Water and Sanitation, which received inputs from President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy President Mashatile, Ministers as well as Representatives of Water Boards, Management Agencies, SALGA, Traditional Leaders, Civil Society and sector experts.

Today's meeting received presentations from the Department of Water and Sanitation, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Human Settlements and Infrastructure South Africa. 

Issues discussed included measures and interventions by the departments to work towards resolving the challenges of water and reticulation. In particular, the meeting noted issues such as the non-payment for water services, lack of effective reticulation, declining infrastructure and capacity challenges at the local government level.

The meeting then agreed to intervene within the prescripts of existing legislation, also directing that all budgetary allocations for water in various departments be pooled together to ensure effectiveness. An update was also received on ongoing work under the Strategic Integrated Projects initiative by Government to create water retention facilities as well as enhancement of water treatment plants.

The Water Task Team also resolved after discussion to accelerate the formalisation of informal settlements, which will assist with the provision of services to residents. This applies to 4 076 illegal settlements who use illegal means to connect to water. Furthermore, it was agreed that all incomplete water projects must be completed and to that effect, the meeting requested departments to review their turn-around times on water projects. 

The meeting then proposed a structured mechanism for effective coordination in the form of the following workstreams:

Workstream 1 - Responses to water supply disruptions in prioritised areas,

Workstream 2 - National and Municipal water institutional reforms, 

Workstream 3 - Accelerating private investment in municipal water services, (through the Partnership Office)

Workstream 4 - Improving municipal sanitation services and management of wastewater, 

Workstream 5 - Improving turn-around time in regulation and funding, 

Workstream 6 - Institutional reforms (led by COGTA, SALGA, DWS & Human Settlements, and  

Workstream 7 – Communication. 

Deputy President Mashatile commended the work and interventions of the various departments in the area of water supply and preservation.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read moreDeputy President Mashatile Convenes the Water Task Team

Work continues to solve Matatiela rape case 

Location: News

Work continues to solve Matatiela rape case 

No effort will be spared in bringing the responsible parties to account in the case of the alleged sexual assault of a seven-year-old child in Matatiele, says Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

“What I can promise, on behalf of the Ministry of Police and the SAPS [South African Police Service] is that we are committed to upholding the law and ensuring that justice is served,” Mchunu said.

The Minister was addressing a media briefing in Pretoria on Friday.

“This is a matter that transcends individual tragedy, and we acknowledge the deep emotional impact it has had on our communities,” said the Minister, adding that the Eastern Cape matter is a sensitive one that police are handling and dealing with, with great sensitivity.

“When the matter first came to our attention earlier this year, we sent a warrant officer to investigate the matter, interact with the complainant and the investigating officer, whilst looking at other related matters.

“In the initial report we received from the warrant officer, we came to learn that the incident occurred in October last year, and a case was formally opened on the 16th of October 2024, following [the] medical examination of the minor and session with a social worker.”

The Minister said from the report provided by the warrant officer, police concluded that the matter could have been handled better and still needed intervention.

“We then realised that we needed to reinforce the team and have a dedicated officer on the matter. After the handling of the matter by the various offices, one critical aspect which has continued to present a serious challenge is the matter around DNA. DNA testing was done on the victim, with no foreign DNA having been found,” he explained.

Three persons of interest have since emerged and following that, further DNA processing is underway as the investigation continues.

“A thorough investigation is now fully underway, and I can assure you that we are consulting with all relevant role players to ensure that every aspect of this matter is examined carefully and comprehensively.”

Additionally, he said the track record of the Family Violence, Child Protection (FCS) Unit remains commendable with more than 35 500 gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) suspects arrested in the last two years.

READ | FCS unit deployed to boost Matatiele case 

“During the same period, 4500 accused were convicted to time in prison for GBVF related crimes and notably, 660 of them were sentenced to life in prison. This indeed, must illustrate the seriousness at which the SAPS treats victims of GBVF related crimes especially those involving young children,” Mchunu said.

Citing police success in dealing with gender-based violence cases, Mchunu said in the past week alone, 259 rape suspects were arrested.

“This week, we have also welcomed the arrest of a 58-year-old male educator on Monday afternoon, 31 March 2025, for an alleged rape incident of a 13-year-old female learner in the Capricorn District of Limpopo. The Educator has appeared before the Mankweng Magistrates Court and is facing a charge of rape.”

Police will continue to support the family and the victim through the Employee Health and Wellness unit, including any other aspects related to the case. 

“We assure the affected family of our full support and commitment to this case,” he said.

On Saturday, the Ministry of Police assured members of the public that law enforcement is actively investigating two incidences involving the rape of minors in the Eastern Cape.

This was after the Ministry took note of calls on various social media platforms regarding the tragic violation of the two minors in two separate incidences in October and November last year.

In both incidences, the suspects have been identified and were arrested. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:54
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Read moreWork continues to solve Matatiela rape case 

Unfair to end employment contracts of doctors working in Tshwane clinics

Location: News

It was unfair and short-sighted of the Gauteng Department of Health to end the contracts of all doctors employed by the Tshwane Metro’s Health Department on 31 March. These doctors are all part of the National Health Insurance pilot programme. Thousands of patients receiving treatment at the 24 clinics in Tshwane are affected by the […]

The post Unfair to end employment contracts of doctors working in Tshwane clinics appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.

Read moreUnfair to end employment contracts of doctors working in Tshwane clinics

156 Players from Record 28 Countries to Compete in 2025 Basketball Africa League Season

Location: News
Basketball Africa League (BAL)

The Basketball Africa League (BAL) today announced that 156 players from a record 28 countries across five continents will compete in the league's milestone fifth season, which will tip off on Saturday, April 5 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco.* 

In the season opener, 2023 third-place finisher Stade Malien (Mali) will face 2024 third-place finisher Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria) at 4:00 p.m. GMT. In the second game, home team Fath Union Sport (FUS; Morocco) will take on first-time BAL participant Al Ittihad (Egypt) at 7:00 p.m. GMT.  The complete season schedule is available at BAL.NBA.com/schedule. 

The 2025 BAL season will reach fans in 214 countries and territories in 17 languages through free-to-air and paid TV broadcast partnerships with the African Union of Broadcasting, American Forces Network (AFN), Canal+, ESPN, FIBA's digital platform Courtside 1891, NBA TV, Ninety Media Services, SNRT, Tencent Sports, TV5 Monde and livestreaming on the NBA App (https://apo-opa.co/4lg5uVc), www.NBA.com, https://BAL.NBA.com and the BAL's YouTube Channel (https://apo-opa.co/3Eie70G).

The BAL also today announced that the league will honor NBA Legend Dikembe Mutombo throughout the season, including by featuring a “DM55” patch on all player jerseys and select warm-up gear, as well as moments of silence ahead of each conference group phase.  The late four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer served as the NBA's first global ambassador following his retirement in 2009. 

Single-game tickets for the games in Rabat are available online at Guichet.com and BAL.NBA.com.  Fans who purchase tickets will also have free access to the BAL Fan Zone at the arena.   

During the 2025 BAL season, each four-team conference will play a 12-game group phase during which each team will face the other three teams in its conference twice. During group phase play, every team will play on every gameday.  The Kalahari Conference group phase will take place from April 5 – Sunday, April 13 in Rabat. The Sahara Conference group phase will take place from Saturday, April 26 – Sunday, May 4 at the Dakar Arena in Senegal. The Nile Conference group phase will take place from Saturday, May 17 – Sunday, May 25 at BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda. Eight teams from across the three conferences will travel to Pretoria, South Africa for four seeding games followed by an eight-game, single-elimination playoffs and finals from Friday, June 6 – Saturday, June 14.   

View 2025 Basketball Africa League Rosters : https://apo-opa.co/4iNOUKJ

*Rosters are subject to change and will be updated in real-time on the team roster pages at https://BAL.NBA.com. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Basketball Africa League (BAL).

Contact:
Edwin Eselem
Basketball Africa League
+221 78 615 42 87
EEselem@theBAL.com

Fans can follow the BAL (@theBAL) on:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4i4vxfk
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Register their interest in receiving more information at https://BAL.NBA.com

About the BAL:
The Basketball Africa League (BAL), a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that will tip off its fifth season in April 2025.  Headquartered in Dakar, Senegal, the BAL builds on the foundation of club competitions FIBA Africa has organized across the continent and marks the NBA's first collaboration to operate a league outside North America.

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Read more156 Players from Record 28 Countries to Compete in 2025 Basketball Africa League Season