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Drone technology boosts border security over festive season

Location: News

Drone technology boosts border security over festive season

The use of drone technology has boosted South Africa’s border security efforts, with operations at ports of entry this festive season having been improved as a result.

Speaking at a briefing on Friday on the Border Management Authority (BMA) festive season operations, Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said the use of drones at five ports of entry on a pilot basis made an immediate and visible impact.

Schreiber said the piloting of new technology, including drones and body cameras, has demonstrated the power of digital transformation to secure and enhance border management.

“It is now time for the BMA to permanently acquire these capabilities, as we accelerate our work to digitalise South Africa’s port environment, including automating all entry and exit procedures,” the Minister said at the briefing held in Pretoria.

Schreiber commended the success registered at ports of entry to curb illegal activities.

“In previous years, festive season operations were characterised by fragmentation, lack of coordination and the inability to adjust quickly to changing circumstances on the ground.

“Thanks to the focus on coordination, technology and collaboration by the BMA, the number of attempted illegal border crossings by undocumented persons that were successfully prevented increased by 215% this past festive season.” 

Operational successes

BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the festive season plan was implemented from 6 – 31 December 2024 (the exit leg) and 1 - 18 January 2025 (the return leg). 

In 2023/24, 15 924 undocumented persons who tried to come into the country illegally were intercepted. In 2024/2025, this number increased to 50 312.

Another 6 159 people were detected for overstaying, and a further 1 923 were refused entry due to fraudulent documentation or non-compliance with entry requirements.

BMA border guards, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), made 322 arrests, including 132 wanted criminals, and seized illicit goods that included R690 million worth of illegal cigarettes.

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development assisted with the deployment of drones at Beitbridge, Maseru Bridge, Lebombo, Kopfontein and Oshoek. Forty-two pilots were assigned and effectively operated those drones across the five ports of entry.

The use of these drones at the five ports led to the detection of 2 188 additional people, who attempted to illegally enter the country.

“That is 2 188 people who would be walking among us illegally now if it was not for the use of this technology,” Schreiber said.

Furthermore, the drones led to 2 326 breaches in the border fence being identified and sealed.

Masiapato said prior to the implementation of the festive season plan, the BMA -- an entity of the Department of Home Affairs -- increased the human resource capacity at certain ports of entry and also extended operating hours at some of the ports, which do not normally operate on a 24-hour basis.

The BMA is mandated to facilitate and manage the legitimate movement of people and goods across South Africa’s 71 ports of entry, 52 of which are land, 10 are international airports and nine are seaports, as well as the border law enforcement area.

Cooperation pays off

Masiapato explained that during the implementation of the plan, the BMA collaborated with a multiplicity of law enforcement stakeholders, such as SAPS, South African Revenue Service (SARS), South African National Defence Force, Cross Border Road Transport Agency, Intelligence Structures, INTERPOL, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, the Immigration Inspectorate of the Department of Home Affairs, the Road Traffic Management Cooperation and various locally based traffic authorities across the various provinces.

During the festive season, the BMA facilitated the legitimate movement of about 5 084 251 travelers across the 71 ports of entry. This number represents an increase of 51 680 travelers compared to the 2023/24 festive period.

The BMA processed over 395 189 private vehicles, 12 974 mini-bus taxis and 6 071 buses through the movement control system. 

The BMA processed over 9 491 aircrafts through the international airports and about 660 vessels across seaports.

OR Tambo International Airport facilitated the majority of travelers at 1 065 636, followed by ⁠the Beitbridge land port of entry to Zimbabwe at 645 590 travelers, and then followed by the Lebombo land port of entry to Mozambique at 571 131.

Compared to the 2023/24 festive period, Lebombo experienced a decline of about 183 935 travelers. 

Working with SARS, the BMA facilitated a total of 58 938 trucks for both import and export.

Out of the total number of  58 938 processed trucks, 47 891 were processed for exports and 11 047 were processed for imports.

Masiapato thanked the border guards and coastal guards, who continue to do their best in the midst of challenges and complexities associated with border law enforcement work.

“We are very hopeful that we will be able to get the resources and fully enrol the requisite technologies required for effective border management,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 01/31/2025 - 11:33

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All Eyes on the Capital

Location: Sport

A replay of last year’s Women’s Premier Division final in Pretoria highlights the second round of the 2025 competition, with the Bulls Daisies welcoming DHL Western Province to Pretoria on Saturday. The three other matches – in Durban, Wellington and East London – also promise to deliver a feast of rugby as the teams hit …

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President convenes Cabinet Lekgotla

Location: News

President convenes Cabinet Lekgotla

President Cyril Ramaphosa has convened a Cabinet Lekgotla with leaders from all spheres of government - to review government’s progress on priorities, assess challenges and set the agenda for the seventh administration.

Addressing members of the media on the agenda of the two-day meeting, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said government was finalising the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024/2029.

The plan proposes three strategic priorities, which include inclusive growth and job creation; reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental State.

“We are focusing on the practical actions that we need to take to make good on the promises that we have made and set practical timeframes so that we can realise the priorities of the MTDP.

“We also received a scene-setting report from National Treasury on the economic outlook and the global outlook -- trends that will inform government planning.

“We are looking at what we want to achieve in terms of reforms on global institutions, in particular the security system of the United Nations and global funding institutions,” the Minister said on Wednesday, on the sidelines of the Cabinet Lekgotla.

Other areas of focus include funding Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) and the “missing middle”, in reference to students whose household income is too high to qualify for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding, yet too low to afford tertiary education without financial assistance.

The Cabinet Lekgotla is taking place on 29 and 30 January 2025 at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House, in Pretoria. 

The outcomes of the meeting will shape government’s policies and programmes that will be announced by the President during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament on Thursday, 6 February 2025, at 19:00. 

With the seventh administration being under the Government of National Unity (GNU), which comprises 10 political parties from across the spectrum, Ntshavheni emphasised that the meeting will prioritise the interests of the country.

“We are meeting as the GNU and we are not bringing party political interests. We are going to negotiate and discuss as members of Cabinet and representatives of provinces, which are represented by Premiers.

“We work for the best benefit of our country and not the best benefit of our parties. The engagements are on the level of us being members of the national executive,” Ntshavheni said.

South Africa’s term for the Group of Twenty (G20) presidency also features on the meeting’s agenda.

“As we are preparing to host the G20, we will receive a report on the logistics and the content on government goals for the summit,” the Minister said.

South Africa holds the G20 Presidency from 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025, under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability” .

South Africa's G20 Presidency is the fourth consecutive emerging market Presidency, and it is also the first African Presidency, followed by the admission of the African Union (AU) as the second permanent African member. 

The G20 was established to tackle pressing global economic and financial issues. Together, G20 members account for around 85% of global GDP and 75% of international trade. 

The G20 comprises 19 countries, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States, and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.

The grouping plays a critical role in influencing global policy making and fostering global economic stability. - SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 18:23

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CSIR launches app to tackle literacy challenge in children

Location: News

CSIR launches app to tackle literacy challenge in children

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has launched the Ngiyaqonda! literacy app to assist South African children in reading for comprehension in their home language. 

The app utilises curriculum-approved content along with the CSIR’s local language text and speech technologies to generate thousands of sentences for foundation phase learners to engage with.

A recent international study has revealed alarming findings in the South African education sector, indicating that eight out of 10 Grade 4 learners are unable to read for basic meaning in their home language.

“Without this essential skill, South African children are deprived of the opportunity to fulfil their true potential, with the impact being the most devastating for those from disadvantaged communities,” the scientific and technology research organisation said. 

The CSIR recognised that many complex factors contribute to this situation, and they believe it is essential to explore a wide range of solutions to address the various dimensions of the crisis. 

The CSIR’s Natural Language Processing Research Group has initiated a research and development project called Ngiyaqonda! which means “I understand” in IsiZulu.

The app funded by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture includes artifacts developed in earlier projects sponsored by the South African Centre for Digital Language Resources (SADiLaR).

The main aim is to integrate speech and text technologies into an Android app that guides learners to compose sentences in their home language as well as in English.

“This app provides learners with a dynamic digital learning environment in their home language and English. While children are taught in their home language from Grades 1 to 3, the medium of instruction for most South African learners starting from Grade 4 is English.” 

The CSIR explained that students listen to sentences spoken by a computer-generated voice and then compose their own sentences using guidance from a reliable text-generation engine.

“The app also allows learners to read sentences aloud and receive feedback on their fluency and pronunciation based on an automatic speech scoring system developed specifically for children’s voices.” 

The app has been piloted with Grade 3 learners who speak IsiZulu in Soweto, Johannesburg, and with Sepedi-speaking Grade 3 learners in Mamelodi, Pretoria, during 2023 and 2024.

“The application harnesses so-called translanguaging principles, such as using translation between the home language and a target language typically English to ensure that learners really understand what they are reading. 

“While the application is currently configured to serve foundation phase learners in their literacy journey, it has the potential to be used up to the tertiary level to assist in language learning of the African languages,” said CSIR senior researcher Laurette Marais. 

The current project focuses on IsiZulu, Sepedi, English, and Afrikaans, with plans to expand to additional languages in the future.

“While no single solution can be considered a silver bullet, this team of CSIR researchers has made it their mission to use their unique set of skills to bring an innovative solution that could empower all South African children and their hopes for a bright future.” – SAnews.gov.za 
 

Gabisile
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 15:13

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Capitals Bounce Back

Location: Sport

A rejuvenated Pretoria Capitals claimed the honours in the Jukskei Derby with a six-wicket bonus point victory over Joburg Super Kings at Centurion on Tuesday evening. The Capitals now move up to 14 points – just one point behind the fourth-placed Super Kings on 15. Capitals coach Jonathan Trott made wholesale changes with five new …

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Cabinet Lekgotla to take place this week

Location: News

Cabinet Lekgotla to take place this week

The Cabinet Lekgotla will take place on 29 and 30 January 2025 at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House, in Pretoria. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will convene the meeting which is expected to be attended by the leadership structures representing all spheres of government. 

The outcomes of the meeting will chart a way forward for the year to be announced by the President during his State of the Nation Address (SONA).

This year’s SONA will be held on Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 19:00. 

President Ramaphosa has requested the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, to convene a Joint Sitting of Parliament on this date.

During this sitting, to be held at the Cape Town City Hall, the President will deliver the first State of the Nation Address (SONA) of the seventh democratic Parliament.

“President Ramaphosa calls this joint sitting in accordance with Section 84(2)(d) of the Constitution and Rule 13(1)(a) of the Joint Rules of Parliament. The Constitution states that the President is responsible for summoning the National Assembly, the National Council of Provinces or Parliament, to an extraordinary sitting to conduct special business.

“During SONA, the President highlights achievements, flags challenges, and outlines interventions for the coming financial year. 

“This address marks the official start of the parliamentary programme and sets out the government's key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead,” Parliament said in a statement.

SONA 2025 will be broadcast live on Parliament TV on DSTV Channel 408 and on Parliament's YouTube Channel. - SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Sun, 01/26/2025 - 12:27

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Gauteng police rescue kidnapped nine-year-old boy

Location: News

Gauteng police rescue kidnapped nine-year-old boy

Police in Gauteng, together with private security companies, on Friday rescued a nine-year-old boy who had been kidnapped for four days in Laudium, in Tshwane.

Five suspects, who are Pakistan and Afghanistan nationals aged between 24 and 37, were arrested. 

The suspects are expected to appear before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

The boy, whose parents are from Afghanistan, was forcefully taken from the house of the father's friend in Laudium on Tuesday.

The suspects called the parents demanding a ransom.

“A team comprising of South African Police Service and private security companies was established to rescue the boy and find the suspects. The team worked tirelessly and made a breakthrough on Friday when they found the vehicle that was used during the kidnapping and arrested two suspects,” said the police in a statement.

The suspects led the police to a house in Danville, Pretoria, where the kidnapped child was found and two more suspects were arrested. 

The suspects were found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and it was further discovered that they are in the country illegal.

Further investigation led to the arrest of the fifth suspect who is known to the family.

The boy was taken to a medical care centre for observation and later reunited with his family.

The suspects have been charged with kidnapping and possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Sun, 01/26/2025 - 13:12

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South African mining reports record low fatalities in 2024

Location: News

South African mining reports record low fatalities in 2024

South Africa’s mining sector has recorded the safest year in history in terms of fatalities with the industry reaching a record low in deaths and no disaster-type incidents recorded.

This is according to Minister of Mineral Resources and Petroleum, Gwede Mantashe, who released the 2024 Mine Health and Safety Statistics in Pretoria on Thursday.

“The South African mining industry recorded 42 fatalities in 2024 marking the lowest ever number of fatalities in the history of mining in South Africa. This represents a 24% improvement, year-on-year, compared to 2023 when we had 55 fatalities. 

“There were no disaster type accidents reported in 2024 compared to one disaster-type accident in 2023, 13 mine employees lost their lives in a conveyance accident in the platinum sector,” Mantashe said in a written statement.

In the industry, a disaster-type incident is described as one where at least five miners lose their lives in one accident.

The fatalities recorded per commodity in 2024 were as follows: 

  • 11 in the gold sector, compared to 20 in 2023, a year-on-year improvement of 45%. 
  • 19 in the platinum sector, compared to 22 in 2023, a year-on-year improvement of 14%. 
  • 6 fatalities in the coal sector, compared to 7 in 2023, a year-on-year improvement of 14%. 
  • 6 fatalities for the category of other mines, compared to 6 in 2023, showing no improvement year-on-year. This category includes mining in diamonds, chrome, copper, zinc, sand, lime, granite, manganese, nickel, bricks, etc.

The Minister emphasised that the improvement was due to work done between labour unions, mining houses, government and the at least 479 000 miners working in the industry.

“This record is as a result of concerted effort by all parties that are involved in providing and maintaining a working environment that is safe and without risk to the health and safety of employees and all those that may be directly affected by the activities of mining.

“The continued collaboration and implementation of the necessary measures on health and safety throughout the year have demonstrated that significant improvements in results can be achieved. 

“We, therefore, commend the collective efforts which have gotten us here, and urge all stakeholders to redouble our efforts to reach the goal of Zero Harm,” the Minister said.

Occupational injuries and diseases

Occupational injuries in the sector also reduced from some 2181 reported injuries in 2023 to about 1841 in 2024.

“This translated to a 16% improvement year-on-year. Of great concern to us is that most of these injuries are mainly because of repeat accidents categorised as fall of ground, transportation and mining and general types of accidents. 

“We therefore urge the employers and labour to be explicit about their respective roles and programs for the provision and maintenance of a safe working environment that is free of risks,” the Minister said.

Turning to occupation diseases, Mantashe noted that “significant progress has been made in reported occupational diseases”.

These dropped from some 2233 to 1864 cases.

“Much of the progress is attributable to the manganese, iron, chrome, coal, diamond, copper, and platinum sectors. There was also a decrease in silicosis, Pulmonary TB, Coal Workers Pneumoconiosis and other diseases. 

“It is, however, regrettable that during the reporting year 2023, the gold sector reported the highest number of occupational diseases for both silicosis and pulmonary tuberculosis cases, whereas the platinum sector reported the highest number of noise induced hearing loss cases,” he said.

The Minister encouraged industry stakeholders to continue working together and “share good practices” to ensure zero harm in the industry.

“All employers and employees are encouraged to work safely and apply zero tolerance on sub-standard work and conditions. All mineworkers and supervisors are reminded that unsafe work practices always lead to undesirable circumstances.

“We, therefore, urge all mineworkers not to risk their lives and, thereby urge them to exercise their right to refuse dangerous workplaces. By so doing, every mineworker will return home unharmed, and our ultimate goal of zero harm will be attained,” Mantashe concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 17:25

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Minister Meth stresses collaboration with Labour Federations for fair policies, effective enforcement

Location: News

Minister Meth stresses collaboration with Labour Federations for fair policies, effective enforcement

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has emphasised that close collaboration with labour federations is integral to shaping equitable policies and ensuring effective enforcement.

Speaking at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) Annual Labour School in Pretoria on Wednesday, Meth said the union’s insights inform better law-making and governance and enhance the department’s capacity to monitor compliance.

“The role of unions in a free South Africa has been a testament to the indomitable will of the South African people. The growth, strength and influence of unions play an indispensable role in advocating for worker’ rights and ensuring that the economic gains of our country are shared amongst all its people.

“We recognise the transformative role that thought leadership and transversal coordination play in aligning policy, catalysing industrial expansion, and equipping our workforce for tomorrow’s opportunities,” Meth said.

She said NEDLAC, which comprises members from government, business, labour and civil society, remains the country’s statutory social dialogue forum and was essential for forging a balanced consensus on labour and socio-economic legislation.

“We will continue to defend and elevate NEDLAC’s role, ensuring that government departments comply with the requirement to table all labour-related Bills there. 

“It is also vital that Parliament allows NEDLAC engagements to unfold thoroughly before finalising legislative processes, preserving the spirit of inclusive policymaking that underpins South Africa’s democracy,” she said. 

Meth spoke about South Africa's high unemployment rate, especially youth unemployment, which stood at 45.5 % as of the third quarter of 2024. 

She said that these alarming statistics are echoed in the nation’s communities, as poverty, social tension and lost economic potential. 

The Minister said the crisis is even more acute among the youth, threatening to create a “lost generation”, whose long-term career prospects are permanently curtailed.

“We recognise that stand-alone programmes cannot solve this crisis. Effective solutions must align with overarching frameworks such as the National Development Plan (NDP), the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP), and the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024 – 2029. 

“These plans point us to an inclusive path of structural transformation, where public and private resources unite to generate sustainable growth and reduce inequality,” she said. 

Following the 2019 reconfiguration, the Department of Employment and Labour broadened its scope from primarily regulating labour standards to actively driving employment creation. 

Meth explained that this expanded mandate rests on three core pillars, including harmonising and coordinating multi-departmental initiatives to maximise impact and Leveraging data-driven insights to shape policy decisions and anticipate future skill requirements. 

The third pillar is streamlining job creation projects and fostering partnerships across government, the private sector, and civil society.

In October last year, Meth announced that the department would increase the number of labour inspectors from 2000 to 20,000. 

The inspectors play an important role in ensuring that companies stick to the labour laws and help the department achieve its mandate.

The Minister further emphasised that it is crucial for government and organised labour to work together.

“We should, together with a renewed sense of urgency, work to tackle the interwoven challenges of unemployment, inequality and poverty. Our collective purpose must clearly ensure that every policy, programme, and partnership we pursue brings us closer to an economy where dignified, productive work is available to all,” she said. 

Meth further extended her gratitude to organised labour for its vigilance and activism in always raising pertinent issues in different workplaces. 

“Let us move forward together, government, labour, business, and civil society and strengthen the bonds of social partnership and ensuring that South Africa’s commitment to inclusive growth is not just an aspiration but a lived reality. 

“The future of work summons us to respond with unity, innovation, and unyielding determination to improve the lives of all who call our country home,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 11:40

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Employment and Labour to recruit 10 000 inspector interns

Location: News

Employment and Labour to recruit 10 000 inspector interns

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has announced the recruitment of 10 000 inspector interns who will be recruited from end of January. 

The Minister was addressing the NEDLAC Annual Labour School taking place at Kievits Kroon, Pretoria. 

Noting the inadequate inspectorate capacity of the department, Minister Meth made an announcement of the intention to recruit 20 000 interns to bolster the inspectorate wing of the department so that all corners of the country are covered and ensure that employers are complying with labour legislation. 

“I am pleased to announce that the inspector advertisement for the first cohort of 10 000 interns will be published in the Public Service vacancy Circular on 31 January 2025. The remaining 10 000 will then be recruited next year. 

“The 20 000 additional labour inspectors will assist us to effectively reinforce the department’s institutional capacity to meet its mandate,” the Minister said. 

Minister Meth said the department aims to improve labour law compliance, especially in under-monitored sectors such as domestic work, agriculture, public sector and the informal economy and it looks forward to increased collaboration with unions and employer organisations in so doing.

“Our increased actions should serve as a deterrent toward wrongdoing hence the work of inspection and enforcement services of the department is critical in safeguarding workers' rights, ensuring compliance with labour laws and upholding fair practices.

“This priority speaks directly to the need for enhanced capacity in our labour inspectorate, ensuring that the protections afforded by our laws are implemented on the ground,” she said. 

Once more, the Minister highlighted that President Cyril Ramaphosa underscored the necessity of improving compliance rates in the labour market, which are essential to protecting workers and upholding their rights. 

While leading the Portfolio of Employment and Labour in the recent months, Meth said she has noted some areas of concern which she is prioritising. 

She cited the enforcement drive that the department has engaged in, in the past few months, with an increased drive of ensuring compliance with labour legislation. 

“The inspection work has continued to occupy the media space. Yes, we have been topical, and for all the right reasons, making some shockwaves in the hospitality, retail, agricultural sectors- just to mention a few after a relentless spate of coordinated national raids that saw us conducting numerous national high impact coordinated blitz inspections. 

“These inspections to ensure that employees are correctly paid; their conditions of employment are as per the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, and where we have found non-compliance, we have enforced the law with all might,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 10:59

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Public Works Department decries surge in infrastructure vandalism amid scrap metal theft

Location: News

Public Works Department decries surge in infrastructure vandalism amid scrap metal theft

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has raised serious concerns about the relentless wave of infrastructure destruction, including the theft of aluminum and cables, the vandalism of traffic lights and railway lines, and the destruction of pylons.

In a recent incident, the department condemned the brazen actions of armed criminals who targeted government properties to steal steel, aluminum, and other valuable materials.

Late last night, security personnel at Public Works House, located in the Central Business District (CBD) of Pretoria, thwarted an attempted robbery by a group of armed intruders. The suspects were attempting to steal aluminum and steel infrastructure, including furniture, from the government premises.

The confrontation resulted in two suspects being shot after the group, armed with dangerous weapons, forcibly infiltrated the guarded property. The attackers are believed to be part of a notorious syndicate involved in the vandalism and theft of metals for sale in the scrap metal market.

Some of the suspects reportedly carried machetes (commonly referred to as pangas) to intimidate and attack security guards. Despite the violent encounter, the security team responded swiftly, wounding two intruders while others managed to escape.

“There have been numerous incidents of vandalism reported at various properties within the CBD area of Tshwane, with Public Works House being a frequent target,” the department stated. It added that fencing had also been repeatedly dismantled and stolen from government properties.

The department expressed concern that some of these crimes may be linked to individuals addicted to substances like nyaope, who sell stolen materials to scrap metal dealers for quick cash.

“The flourishing scrap metal industry and its apparent link to stolen materials are having a devastating impact on critical infrastructure and the broader economy,” the department warned.

The injured suspects were transported to a hospital, while some of the security personnel involved in the incident have been questioned as part of an ongoing police investigation.

“As investigations continue, the department will intensify security measures to safeguard public assets, which are essential for public use and economic growth,” the statement concluded.

– SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 09:26

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Pretoria’s Ice Swimming Hero

Location: Sport

Over 20 degrees separate the freezing waters of Molveno, Italy, where Pretoria swimmer Reino von Wielligh has been competing, and the much warmer KwaZulu-Natal dam, where he’ll soon tackle the 16-Mile Charity Challenge at next month’s aQuellé Midmar Mile. Von Wielligh recently represented South Africa at the sixth Ice Swimming World Championships, earning multiple podium …

Read morePretoria’s Ice Swimming Hero

Call to enter SADC Media Awards competition

Location: News

Call to enter SADC Media Awards competition

South African journalists are invited to submit their entries for the 2025 Southern African Development Community (SADC) Media Awards competition before the deadline next month.

The competition is open to journalists from the SADC Member States. 

“The SADC Media Awards were established in 1996 to recognise best media work in disseminating information on SADC to support the process of regional co-operation and integration in the region. 

“To promote regional integration and cooperation (cross-border issues), the awards aim to recognise excellence in journalism in the area of print, photo, television, radio as well as to encourage media practitioners in member states to cover issues pertaining to the region,” the Government Communications (GCIS) said on Tuesday.

The first prize winners will receive their prizes and certificates on the margins of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government that will take place in August 2025.

The first prize winner in each category receives US$2,500 and the runner-up receives US$1000.

Journalists who wish to enter the competition can access more information about the competition from the www.gcis.gov.za website.

Entry forms can be accessed at https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADCEntryform2025.doc. 

Rules of the 2025 competition can be accessed at https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADC2025RulesCompetition.pdf.

Entries need to be posted or delivered to MDDA or any GCIS offices nationwide marked:

MDDA Offices                                               GCIS Offices

SADC Media Awards Entry                 or       SADC Media Awards Entry

GSM Building                                                Government Communications (GCIS)

SABC Auckland Park Campus                       1035 Francis Baard Street

Johannesburg                                                Hatfield, Pretoria

2006                                                               0028     

 All entries must be submitted no later than 28 February 2025. - SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

nosihle
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:23

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Mashatile calls on Nedlac stakeholders to execute plans to grow the economy

Location: News

Mashatile calls on Nedlac stakeholders to execute plans to grow the economy

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has acknowledged that the country’s efforts to promote economic growth through investments and infrastructure development have yet to yield satisfactory results due to slow economic growth.

Delivering the keynote address at the annual Nedlac Organised Labour School held at Kievits Kroon in Pretoria on Tuesday, Mashatile cited ArcelorMittal South Africa's recently proposed closures and reduction in production in the steel industry, which is expected to impact thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

The Deputy President noted that some companies in the mining sector have implemented significant employment cuts.

“Through our collective efforts, we have developed collectively-agreed sector plans. However, all stakeholders of Nedlac [National Economic Development and Labour Council] must bear the responsibility of facilitating the speedy execution of these plans so they can live up to our expected outcomes. There is evidence that we can do this,” the Deputy President said. 

He believes that a 1.5% economic growth is insufficient to tackle some challenges facing the country.

“We want to see much bigger growth going forward to address the challenges. In a way, the austerity measures are a result of an economy that is not growing as fast as we had envisioned.“

The Nedlac Organised Labour School takes place every year to evaluate the current state of the labour market and the challenges that workers face in the country.

Delegations from various labour federations, guests from the International Labour Organisation, and representatives from government departments filled the conference room. 

The Deputy President reviewed policy programmes designed to ensure decent employment for the majority of South Africans in the past three decades. 

He emphasised substantial improvements in labour conditions, unemployment rates and social benefits.

“We have also introduced the minimum wage, the two-pot retirement system, as well as other policies that cushioned workers and the poor.” 

However, despite progressive interventions, the Deputy President stated that challenges such as high unemployment, poverty, inequality, crime and gender-based violence persist. 

He believes that the COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of the labor sector and exposed vulnerabilities within the economic framework.

“It is through the collective efforts of government, unions, and the private sector that we were able to protect millions of workers’ livelihoods, even in the middle of adversity.”

In addition, the State was also instrumental in the introduction of improved retirement packages and social benefits for dependents of labour union members, providing greater financial security for workers and their families. 

There is a silver lining amid the challenges, the Deputy President said, as South Africa’s official unemployment rate decreased from 33.5% in the second quarter to 32.1% in the third quarter. This marks the first decline in a year and indicates a positive shift in the labour market.

G20

The country’s second-in-command turned his attention to South Africa hosting the Group of Twenty (G20) Leaders’ Summit this year -- a first for an African country. 

Mashatile believes that hosting the G20 will help advance Africa’s development agenda, as well as that of the Global South.

“We, therefore, expect that labour in South Africa, will, through the Civil Society 20 (C20), contribute to discussions that will reshape the global agenda, as we seek to resolve the challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality, but also reframe and reposition global financial institutions towards social justice.” 

The G20 aims to ensure that world leaders pay attention to the recommendations and demands of organized civil society. 

As the nation forges ahead, Mashatile said it is imperative to harness the collective power of all stakeholders – unions, government and the private sector – to ensure that South Africa’s labour market is inclusive, fair and globally competitive. 

“We must address income inequality and improve the quality of life for our workforce. We are not merely fostering economic growth but building a South Africa where every worker feels valued and empowered.” 

He called on everyone in the room to recommit themselves to the values of solidarity, equity and justice. 

“The labour movement, as the backbone of our nation, holds the power to drive South Africa’s economic transformation. Together, through collaboration and collective action, we can overcome the challenges of the 21st century and create a future of dignity, equality and prosperity for all workers.” 

Mashatile noted that the Nedlac Organised Labour School session coincides with the World Economic Forum, where President Cyril Ramaphosa and other government leaders are representing the nation. 

The team, led by the President in Davos, Switzerland, will advance South Africa's position on important global issues, particularly those related to economic development, as a key player in the global economy and within the continent. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 12:39

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Mashatile assures unions’ interests protection under GNU

Location: News

Mashatile assures unions' interests protection under GNU

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has urged labour union leaders not to fear the Government of National Unity (GNU) formed after the May 2024 elections.

“Don’t be scared of the GNU. I know in the beginning there were many saying this GNU includes those who don’t have the interest of workers at heart, so we might see the reversal of the gains that workers have made over the years. But I said to them, don’t worry we’re there,” Mashatile said. 

Mashatile explained that the GNU is made up of a collective in a Cabinet, appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“The Ministers are not allowed to come with their own policies. We agreed on the priorities and statements of intent. Yes, people can talk about their policies in their parties. But in government, we all work in terms of the priorities of government.

“We will make sure that the workers’ rights are protected, so don’t be scared. Workers’ rights will always be protected even in the GNU. Please sleep peacefully at night,” he assured the leaders.  

The Deputy President was delivering a keynote address at the annual Nedlac Organised Labour School, held at Kievits Kroon in Pretoria, on Tuesday. 

He stated that they have to ensure the achievements made over the past 30 years are preserved, and that they will continue to defend these accomplishments.

Mashatile highlighted the GNU's policy priority areas, which include growing an inclusive economy, reducing the cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental State. 

“In realising these priority areas, we believe that we must continue to create a social compact with labour, business, and civil society, as we have done through NEDLAC [National Economic Development and Labour Council].” 

The Nedlac Organised Labour School takes place every year to evaluate the current state of the labour market and the challenges that workers face in the country.

Delegations from various labour federations, guests from the International Labour Organisation, and representatives from government departments, filled the conference room.

The union leaders raised key points, including the defence of progressive policies, the importance of local government collaboration, and the challenges of funding and corruption.

This year, the country’s second-in-command, said government will host the National Dialogue aimed at drawing from lessons from the past, to shape the future beyond the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030. 

According to the Deputy President, the National Dialogue will take place in a year when South Africa celebrates 70 years of the Freedom Charter, a statement of core principles that have and continue to shape policy in South Africa. 

“The task of organised labour in this regard is to provide innovative solutions on how best to strengthen our economy, build social cohesion and improve governance systems, placing the needs of the workers at the forefront.”

He believes that the National Dialogue will shape the country’s outlook towards and beyond 2055, a year when the country will celebrate the centenary of the Freedom Charter.

“Our ultimate objective must be to realise a South Africa that belongs to all who live in it, Black and White, as envisaged in the Freedom Charter. Indeed, this is the only way that we can realise the country of our dreams as charged by those who gathered in 1955 in Kliptown.” 

Nedlac is the vehicle by which government, labour, business, and community organisations seek to cooperate, through problem-solving and negotiation, on economic, labour, and development issues and related challenges facing the country. 

The Deputy President defined the labour movement as the backbone of the nation, holding the power to drive South Africa’s economic transformation.

"Together, through collaboration and collective action, we can overcome the challenges of the 21st century and create a future of dignity, equality, and prosperity for all workers,” Mashatile said – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 13:45

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Celebrating 30 years of policing in a democratic SA

Location: News

Celebrating 30 years of policing in a democratic SA

Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) work under the most daunting working environments as the country struggles with high rates of violent crime, including homicide and sexual assault.

When police officers leave their families every day to perform their duties, the brave men and women in blue are putting their lives on the line and risk returning home in a coffin.

Through the commemoration of National Police Day, which takes place annually on 27 January, government recognises the hard work and sacrifices that the country’s police officers make and continue to make to provide a safe South Africa for all.

Speaking to SAnews, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla MKhwanazi, said this year’s celebrations coincides with 30 years of policing in a democratic South Africa.

“We know that in 1995 there was an amalgamation of different policing agencies that we had in the country that established the SAPS…[now] we are all one in policing in the country as mandated by the Constitution of the Republic,” MKhwanazi said. 

When South Africa attained independence in 1994, the new democratic order brought about many changes and had a substantial impact on policing.

Last year, South Africa celebrated the 30th anniversary of the country’s democratic dispensation and commemorated the nation’s first democratic election on 27 April 1994.

This historic milestone coincided with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land.

“We are going to be celebrating 30 years of policing in a democratic South Africa. We will be displaying all our capabilities as the SAPS. The National Police Day is one of the activities on the SAPS calendar that has been gazetted by government and authorised for us to have a celebration.

“This year’s event will be celebrated in KwaZulu-Natal, specifically in eThekwini. We want to give confidence that Durban remains a place of interest for hosting big events,” the provincial police commissioner said.

Since its establishment in April 2024, the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) has been working hard to address critical service delivery, infrastructure, and socio-economic challenges within the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality with the goal of positioning the city as an investment and tourism hub.

The Working Group operates across three spheres of government and includes representatives from the private sector and labour.

Call for donations for the SAPS education trust fund

Prior to National Police Day, the SAPS will host a fundraising event, which will be in the form of a golf day on 25 January 2025.

The SAPS has established the South African Police Service Education Trust (SAPSET) to raise funds for the provisioning of financial or any other form of assistance to a child or children of members in the service that died in the execution of official duties or on duty, by financing the costs of such child’s or children’s educational needs.

“This allows us to assist these children to go through school until the obtain their first tertiary qualification to make life better for them because those men and women would have died saving society and therefore their children should not be forgotten.

“Of course, government will pay their insurance, but on top of that, we felt that it is important that we find a way of augmenting the resources they have in order to be able to go to school without any struggles.

“We are doing the fundraising and we rely heavily on business to come on board and help us finance the educational trust fund,” Mkhwanazi said.

Last year, the provincial fundraising event in KwaZulu Natal managed to raise about R1.2 million.

“This is the national event so we expect businesses from all over the country to contribute and donate to this fund. We are hoping that if KZN can pull more than R1 million alone, with nine provinces that will raise more funds to assist the children of the departed members.

“These are members that we normally celebrate every September in Pretoria at the Union Buildings, that would have died in the line of duty,” he said.

National Police Commemoration Day takes place on the first Sunday in September in memory of police officers who died in the line of duty in the last twelve months.

The education trust is comprised of members that are independent of the SAPS and meets all the legal requirements for donations. 

“On the 26 January 2025, we are going to have the Excellence Awards where we recognise outstanding dedication, service, and excellence across various categories within the SAPS.

“We are going to be recognising those who have gone beyond the call of duty, including the committee members that have played the role in helping us fight crime in their role as the Community Policing Forums (CPF)

“If a police officer is off duty and places themselves in a position to prevent crime or becomes a rescuer of people that are trapped in dams or pit toilets, and you sacrifice yourself by taking them out, that is beyond your duties. It is such individuals that we want to recognize,” Mkhwanazi said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 12:48

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Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

Location: News

Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

While law enforcement maintained a constant presence throughout the festive season, conducting operations around the clock - the preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics reveal a concerning increase in crashes and fatalities, primarily attributed to human behavior. 

“Tragically, South Africa witnessed 1,502 deaths resulting from 1,234 fatal crashes during the 2024/25 festive season. The number of fatalities represents a year-on-year increase of 5.3% (70) compared to the 2023/24 festive season, with a 4.2% (50) increase in the number of crashes,” Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said during a media briefing, held in Pretoria, on Monday.

The preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics indicate that 87% of crashes happened because of human behaviour, including hit-and-runs, jay-walking (pedestrians crossing or walking in the street or road unlawfully), fatigue, loss of control over vehicles, speed, drunken driving, and reckless overtaking.

“The number of people who died on our roads this festive season has increased because people continued to behave badly. In spite of our pleas and warnings, and notwithstanding our efforts to clamp down on irresponsible and reckless behaviour, it is clear that many road users – both drivers and pedestrians – continue to act without regard for the lives of others.

“Six provinces recorded increases in the number of fatalities in the 2024/25 festive season compared to 2023/24, namely KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, Northern Cape and North West,” the Minister said.

The Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State recorded increases of 70, 54 and 21 fatalities as compared to 2023/24, while Gauteng, Western Cape and Mpumalanga recorded decreases of 76, 23 and 15 fatalities, respectively.

Concern over pedestrian fatalities

Creecy said pedestrian fatalities remain a huge concern, with 41% of all road fatalities being pedestrians. 

The highest percentage of pedestrian fatalities were recorded in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, which are the most populous provinces in the country in terms of vehicles and people.

Gauteng had the highest pedestrian fatalities at 63.84% followed by Western Cape with 53.9% and KwaZulu-Natal with 44.33%.

During this period, law enforcement conducted joint operations in line with the focus areas, including vehicle road worthiness, public passenger transport, drunken driving, execution of warrants of arrest, and speed law enforcement.

Law enforcement officers issued 711,184 fines for various traffic offences across the country. 

“Some 23,607 fines were issued to drivers who failed to wear seatbelts, while another 16,925 motorists were fined for using cell phones while driving. Then, 16,527 vehicles were found to be unroadworthy and issued with traffic fines, as well as their motor vehicle licence discs removed, particularly in areas where vehicles could not be impounded due to lack of impoundment facilities,” the Minister said.

In total, 8,917 motor vehicles were impounded in areas where facilities were available.

“To clamp down on drunken driving, speeding and other moving violations, our officers arrested more than 9,550 motorists, with 3,840 individuals arrested for drunken driving.

“A total of 414 drivers were arrested for driving at high speed and five amongst them were driving at excessive speeds of between 200km/h to well above 240km/h,” Creecy said.

The highest speedster was arrested in Gauteng, driving at 245km/h (kilometre per hour) in a BMW Sedan on N1 near Honeydew, on 18 December 2024.

“We, South Africans, must change our behaviour on the roads. As we said at the beginning of the festive season, government and our law enforcement agencies cannot do it on our own.

“The statistics clearly send all of us, as South Africans, one message: Drivers and pedestrians must change their behaviour. We must obey the law, we must obey the basic rules of the road,” Creecy said.

Interventions 

The Minister has asked the provinces to conduct a detailed analysis of their respective statistics, and come up with a clear plan for the way forward, by the end of January. 

This will include a look at severe consequences for those who continue to show a disregard for road safety.

“We will continue to direct our efforts at changing the behaviour of road users, invest in designing and engineering safer roads, enforcing safe speeds in high congestion areas, and enhancing emergency response systems and access to quality trauma care, which is essential to saving lives.

“By reducing response times and improving the availability of critical care, we can increase survival rates and reduce the long-term impacts of road traffic injuries. This initiative will require collaboration with the Department of Health, and other industry role-players,” she said.

Creecy said indications are that the implementation of 24/7 traffic policing shifts is more critical than ever. 

“During the festive season, we agreed to release National Traffic Police resources to provinces, to intensify road safety communication and education campaigns and strengthen monitoring of our law enforcement operations especially at night.

"This approach will serve as a blueprint for our road safety activities but will only succeed if it is consistent all year round, especially on weekends and in every province across the country,” the Minister said. -SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

nosihle
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 13:47

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Mashatile to address the annual Nedlac Organised Labour School

Location: News

Mashatile to address the annual Nedlac Organised Labour School

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will address the annual National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) Organised Labour School on Tuesday, 21 January 2025.

Convened under the theme: ‘Building unity of workers to defend labour rights and advance decent work for all’, the gathering will take place at Kievits Kroon, Gauteng, in Pretoria at 9 am. 

The Nedlac Organised Labour School is held annually to assess the current state of the labour market and the challenges workers face in the country. 

Delegations from various labour federations, guests from the International Labour Organisation, and representatives from government departments are expected to attend this event. 

Nedlac is the vehicle by which government, labour, business, and community organisations seek to cooperate, through problem-solving and negotiation, on economic, labour, and development issues and related challenges facing the country. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 09:55

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