Mamelodi Residents Struggle to Claim UIF as Labour Office Closed
The department says it shut the offices out of safety concerns in August after sporadic service delivery protests
Pretoria
Government activities for the week 04-08 November 2024
Government activities for the week 04-08 November 2024
On Monday, 04 November, the Deputy Ministers Kenny Morolong and Peace Mabe lead a guided educational tour to KwaMuhle Museum, Gandhi Settlement and Ohlange Institute in eThekwini.
Also on Monday, the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie will officially open the National Language Stakeholder Engagement Forum, at the Southern Sun Hotel, Arcadia, in Pretoria.
On Tuesday, 05 November, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola will host Rt. Hon David Lammy, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development of the United Kingdom (UK) in Cape Town.
On Wednesday, 06 November, Department of Employment and Labour will host an Employment Seminar on the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) which will be held in Wolmaransstad.
On Thursday, 07 November, as part of the District Development Model build up programme, the Department of Employment and Labour is providing integrated outreach services to the community of Umnini at the Thusong Centre in Thekwini region in KwaZulu-Natal.
On Friday, 08 November, President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the Presidential Imbizo in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.
Neo
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 11:32
93 views
Investigative report finds Pretoria Girls High head committed misconduct
Investigative report finds Pretoria Girls High head committed misconduct
An independent investigative report on incidents at Pretoria High School for Girls has recommended that the principal and deputy principal responsible be charged with misconduct.
The Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, on Monday released the independent investigative report which probed allegations of a culture of racism at the school and provided recommendations to address such incidents.
The investigation, which was conducted by Mdladlamba Attorneys, a law firm commissioned by the Gauteng Department of Education came after pupils created a “whites only” WhatsApp group where they shared insensitive messages with racial undertones.
The 12 learners who were part of the WhatsApp group were subsequently charged and taken through a formal disciplinary inquiry by the school’s School Governing Body (SGB) and were all found not guilty on the basis that the WhatsApp group was deemed to be a private platform.
Director of the law firm, Charles Mdladlamba, told a media briefing that the principal and deputy principal of the school mishandled the issue and should be charged with misconduct.
“School Official 1 mishandled this matter and thus failed to comply with her obligations under paragraphs 5.1.1.2 c) and 5.1.1.5 i) and n) of the School Policy. She further breached the learners’ rights under paragraph 10.1.1 of the PHSG Learner code of conduct and thus item 3 – sections 9 (1) and 10 of the constitution.
“It follows therefore that School Official 1 has committed misconduct as envisaged in section 18 (1) (a) and (f) of the Employment Equity Act (EEA),” Mdladlamba said.
The report also found that some white teachers at the school did not greet their fellow black colleagues "because they do not know whether they are cleaners or educators at the school".
Mdladlamba said the allegation that some white teachers do not greet their black colleagues was confirmed by the principal, Phillipa Erasmus, who is suspended.
"According to the principal, this is the biggest frustration that she must deal with at the school, including the ill-treatment of the administration staff by some educators.
"The principal indicated that her challenge is that the administration staff do not want to name the educators that are ill-treating them and thus she cannot take the necessary disciplinary steps against them."
The report recommended that she as well as the deputy principal responsible for discipline as well as two educators be charged with misconduct.
It also recommended that the estate manager and the HR manager be charged with misconduct.
"The GDE [Gauteng education department] is to consider removing the governing body chairman from the governing body for his allegations of interfering with the legislative powers and functions of the MEC.”
Having investigated the matter, the law firm recommended that the GDE must ensure that the school offers counselling to all learners who were affected by the incident, including the 13 learners that were found guilty by the disciplinary hearings.
“We will implement the recommendations, and bring social cohesion into the school in a manner that involves everyone, learners and teachers alike. We will also bring the school closer to the National Dialogue that is being purported by the Government of National Unity,” MEC Chiloane said.
How the probe emerged
The probe followed a visit to the school by Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane on 30 July after 12 white girls, including eight prefects, were suspended on 24 July for suspected racism.
According to the department, the conversations allegedly included racial commentary about the ongoing dissatisfaction among black pupils regarding issues they faced at the school, alluding to these issues being insignificant.
"Similar commentary about a black hair protest by learners that reportedly took place at the school in 2016 was also made in the group chat."
They were subsequently cleared of the allegation during an internal disciplinary hearing earlier this month.
Following the outcome of the disciplinary hearings of the 13 learners, various sections of society expressed disappointment with the outcome of the disciplinary process and pleaded with the GDE to commission an independent inquiry into all allegations.
Notwithstanding the previous investigation - which made clear findings and recommendations - similar allegations had resurfaced.
The allegations that were put forward were tested against the records and policies of the school and the law.
The report is based on evidence and the rules of engagement were explained thoroughly to all individuals who were interviewed. Therefore, the findings of the investigation are based on evidence and concessions made by some of the implicated persons.
The investigation found that the principal, deputy principal and acting principal should be charged with misconduct; there is selective application of discipline based on race; the SGB attempted to interfere with the suspension of the 12 pupils; some white staff do not greet their black colleagues; and the estate manager committed misconduct. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 15:19
76 views
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (Ti̇Ka) Provides Equipment Support to Stellenbosch University in South Africa
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has provided equipment to the Medical Plant Biology Laboratory at Stellenbosch University, which continues its educational and research activities in South Africa.
TİKA provided equipment support to the Medical Plant Biology Laboratory at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, ranked among the world's top 200 universities in plant and animal sciences.
Through this project, a centrifuge machine, water purification system, spectrophotometer, plant growth chamber and lyophilizer were provided to support the cultivation of plants under controlled conditions, DNA analysis and the preservation of plants and extracts as required.
South Africa is home to 9,000 endemic plant species
South Africa hosts approximately 9,000 plant species, the majority of which are endemic. These plants, integral to the development of traditional medicine, have been used by local communities for medicinal purposes over centuries.
However, during the apartheid era the Witchcraft Suppression Act 3 of 1957 restricted this usage. Following the repeal of this law in 1994, academic research surged, allowing many native plants to be widely adopted in medicine and cosmetics.
Stellenbosch University is now dedicated to integrating traditional knowledge into academic research. To support this, TİKA provided the university with equipment to study the reactions of local plants to different production conditions, determine optimal cultivation and storage methods and conduct DNA-level analyses.
Handover ceremony organized
The handover ceremony was attended by Yonca Sunel, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Cape Town; Abdulkadir Abukan, TİKA's Coordinator in Pretoria; Vim de Villiers, Rector of Stellenbosch University; Sibusiso Moyo, Vice Rector; as well as academics and students.
During the ceremony, Rector de Villiers expressed gratitude to TİKA for its contributions. Vice Rector Moyo emphasized the significance of international cooperation in enhancing the university's research capacity and provided information about the partnerships with universities in Türkiye.
Consul General Sunel noted that this program marked her first official visit since her appointment and expressed her pleasure in collaborating with the esteemed institutions of South Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).
dtic calls for comments on draft amended Consumer Protection Act
dtic calls for comments on draft amended Consumer Protection Act
The Department of Trade Industry and Competition (the dtic) has called on all stakeholders and interested parties to submit comments on the draft amended Regulations 4 of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA 68 of 2008).
Regulations 4 of the CPA provides mechanisms to block unwanted direct marketing communication.
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, published the amended Regulations in the Government Gazette on 28 October 2024, giving interested parties 45 days to submit their comments.
South African consumers are constantly exposed to intrusive marketing, and this has significantly increased over the years.
With the Opt-Out Registry, direct marketers must be registered and should ensure that when contacting any consumer for direct marketing that they do not contact any consumer that has registered a pre-emptive block on the Opt-Out Registry.
All interested parties, including direct marketers, legal experts, industry associations, and interested citizens are encouraged to submit their comments by no later than 15 January 2025.
Written comments should be submitted to the dtic for the attention of Mr Sibusiso Sasayi, Private Bag X 84, Pretoria, 0001, or by email to: SSasayi@thedtic.gov.za.
The draft amended Regulations can be accessed here: https://www.thedtic.gov.za/wp-content/uploads/NCC-Gazette.pdf - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 11/01/2024 - 12:12
72 views
South Africa Welcomes the Convening of the Sixth Conference of States Parties to the African Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Treaty (Pelindaba Treaty)
South Africa welcomes the convening and the outcome of the Sixth Conference of States Parties (CSP) to the African Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Treaty (Pelindaba Treaty) held from 24 to 25 October 2024 at the Headquarters of the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
States Parties to the Treaty reaffirmed their commitment to the Pelindaba Treaty and noted with concern recent events and actions that have negatively affected the operations of the Secretariat and the work of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE). They resolved to take the necessary measures to prevent such challenges in the future and strengthen cooperation among themselves and between the Treaty structures.
States Parties reaffirmed the decision taken by the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on 30 July 2024 to dismiss the former Executive Secretary, Mr Enobot Agboraw. They decided that a recruitment process to appoint a new Executive Secretary of AFCONE should commence urgently.
Furthermore, States Parties noted the difficult task of the Government of South Africa, as the Host Country, to implement the decision by the African Union Commission Chair regarding the dismissal of the former Executive Secretary and confirmed that no dispute exists between AFCONE and South Africa as the Host Country. The Conference expressed appreciation to South Africa for its continued cooperation and support and for hosting the AFCONE Headquarters.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) trusts that the pronouncement of the sixth CSP outcomes, as well as the dismissal by the High Court of South Africa (Gauteng Division: Pretoria) on 18 September 2024, of the urgent application brought by Mr Enobot Agboraw, against the Department regarding the withdrawal of his diplomatic immunities and privileges following termination of Mr Agboraw's employment contract as Executive Secretary of the AFCONE Secretariat, will effectively dispel the unfounded and false allegations in recent media reports against officials in the Department who have been carrying out their official responsibilities.
South Africa remains fully committed to the Pelindaba Treaty and achieving its objectives, including the establishment of an effective, impartial and professional Secretariat of AFCONE that can execute its mandate satisfactorily in promoting the peaceful application of nuclear energy on the African Continent.
South Africa will continue to work with all States Parties to the Pelindaba Treaty to prevent any further reputational, operational and financial damage to AFCONE and its Secretariat and to restore its credibility in the interest of the African Continent.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Fourteen in court on fraud, money laundering charges
Fourteen in court on fraud, money laundering charges
Fourteen people have appeared in court on allegations of fraud and money laundering, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) said on Wednesday.
The 14 accused, including two former Nedbank employees, Nicolette de Villiers and Keitumetse Mathimbi, aged between 25 and 51 years were arrested on Tuesday in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni by the Gauteng Serious Commercial Crime Investigation of the Hawks on allegations of fraud and money laundering.
“It is reported that the main suspect unlawfully made payments from suspense accounts valued at over R157 million which were further transferred … to recipients who were [not] entitled to receive such monies. The amounts were between R50 000 and R20 million. Twenty-three recipients are involved in the matter including 15 individuals, seven entities and six banks.”
The 14 made their first appearance in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in the Palm Ridge Magistrates court on Wednesday.
The Hawks said 13 of the 14 were granted bail while accused number 10’s bail application will be heard on 7 November 2024 in the same court.
“Accused No 10, Yu-Wei Fang's bail application will be heard on the 7 November 2024 in the same court, he was remanded in custody. The other 13 accused will appear again on 29 January 2025,” said the Hawks.
The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General (Dr/Adv) Godfrey Lebeya commended the concerted efforts by the investigation team, prosecutors and specialists to ensure speedy finalisation of the investigation and securing the attendance of the accused in court.
“This is one of the complex high value serious commercial crime[s] that exhibits the elements of professional money laundering enablers. Investigations are continuing,” said the Hawks.
Meanwhile, the Hawks said three suspects are expected to appear in court following the murder of an unknown man whose body was found severely beaten, stabbed and dumped in a veld in Boksburg, Gauteng.
The three suspects aged 42, 33 and 31 were arrested in the early hours of Wednesday morning in a multidisciplinary operation led by the Hawks Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS), Benoni Flying Squad, Secure Tech, Graphite Security, Blue Hawk Tactical, DOT Towing and Brakpan Crime Prevention.
“Two suspects were arrested in connection with a murder of an unknown man whose body was found severely beaten, stabbed and dumped in a veld in Boksburg North. Through information received, the pair was traced to Brakpan. The third suspect was arrested also in Brakpan after he was found with a replica firearm and live ammunition which were confiscated for further investigation.”
The team also recovered a baseball bat and a panga which are suspected to have been the weapons utilised in the murder.
Investigations in the matter are continuing. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 10/31/2024 - 11:23
37 views
100 days in office: Advancing the strategic priorities of the GNU
100 days in office: Advancing the strategic priorities of the GNU
By Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts
The first 100 days as Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, under the Government of National Unity (GNU), have been a period of significant learning and action.
It has allowed me to engage closely with stakeholders in the sector, developing a blueprint to drive the implementation of the GNU's strategic priorities which are to fostering inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and addressing the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
The experience has been invaluable, providing me with a deeper understanding of the department’s mandate, core operations, and both domestic and international context.
Alongside Minister Dr Dion George and fellow Deputy Minister Narend Singh, we recently briefed the media on our progress in the department during this period.
A key highlight of these 100 days has been the opportunity to engage with staff and various stakeholders, including the forestry sector, traditional leaders, firefighting personnel, community forest owners, young beneficiaries of departmental programs, field rangers from entities such as South African National Parks (SANParks), and industry players like the South African Weather Service (SAWS). These engagements have helped shape a shared vision for the department's future.
We kicked off our 100 days in the office by presenting the department's Budget Vote to Parliament on July 15, 2024. We delivered our department’s budget vote in a month where we celebrated our national unifying figure in the form of uTata Madiba – which seemed to tie in well with our mandate of unifying our people through the Government of National Unity.
In the first 100 days, we have initiated efforts to reengineer and repackage the department’s approach to wildland fire management. This involves building firefighting skills, especially in vulnerable rural communities, with a focus on women and youth. We aim to strengthen stakeholder engagement across both state and non-state actors to better deliver on our critical priorities.
As part of this initiative, I hosted stakeholder engagements with on the National Veld and Forest Fires Act, 1998 (Act No. 101 of 1998). These engagements were hosted with various stakeholders within the wildland fire management sector from both the North West and Free State. Some of the stakeholders who attended these engagements included local and provincial government departments, fire protection associations (FPAs) and other key players in the sector.
Through these stakeholder engagements, I have instructed the officials to address challenges raised in these interactive engagements such as payment delays for FPAs, challenges on the use of government firefighting vehicles, training of FPA members as well as the clarification of the roles of different stakeholders. I am satisfied with the honest discussions and note the commitment of all parties to find practical solutions.
I have recently led the 2024 Forestry Summit at the Freedom Park in Pretoria. The Summit brought all stakeholders within the forestry sector under one roof to discuss pertinent issues within the sector such as the growth and transformation of the sector, forestry sustainability and the contribution of the sector in addressing climate change.
The Summit was interactive as it provided role players with an opportunity to freely engage with us on the challenges they face in the sector. What was even more fascinating was the involvement of traditional leaders who came from various parts of the country to raise issues their communities were facing. I am pleased with the decision that came out of this frank engagement, which includes plans to go to communities to address issues they have raised.
In the month of September, I had the privilege to lead both the launch and closing ceremonies of the 2024 National Arbor Month campaign. The launch was hosted at Freedom Park in Pretoria and the closing ceremony at Fort Cox Agriculture and Forestry Training Institute in Middledrift, Eastern Cape. A total of 6000 trees were planted in both the localities that hosted these ceremonies.
The Arbor Month campaign is aimed at raising awareness among South Africans about the importance of conserving, protecting, and planting trees for the benefit of both the environment and society.
As part of the Arbor Month launch, I planted the first tree to officially initiate the Forest of Freedom at the designated site at Freedom Park in honour of the heroes and heroines who contributed to South Africa's democracy and liberation struggle. The first 30 trees planted at the Forest of Freedom marks the 30 years of Freedom and Democracy in South Africa. World leaders and other luminaries visiting Freedom Park will get an opportunity to plant a tree in the Forest of Freedom, when it is ready.
During the Arbor Month, I also took a deliberate decision to heighten the Presidential Ten Million Tree Programme, which is a clarion call by President Cyril Ramaphosa to all sectors of society led by DFFE. As the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, I am currently driving an ambitious campaign to relaunch the Presidential Ten Million Tree Programme by planting 1 million trees in one day, on a day to be announced soon.
I want to call on all South Africans – the three spheres of Government, forestry sector, private sector, labour, academia, civil society and many others to join this ambitious campaign by pledging and committing to providing and planting trees on that specific day and going forward.
Trees are important for life. I call on all South Africans to plant trees today and build a better future for generations to come!
On July 31, we celebrated World Ranger Day at Kruger National Park, honoring the dedication of rangers who protect our natural heritage. Their commitment inspires our ongoing conservation efforts.
I also participated in the National Consultative Workshop on Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL), a UN initiative aimed at protecting people from hazardous weather events by 2027. We are committed to developing systems that not only safeguard the economy and infrastructure but also protect the lives and well-being of our people.
The first 100 days have been marked by hard work and significant strides towards delivering the priorities of the GNU.
I look forward to continuing our work, confident that together we will achieve our shared goals for a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable South Africa.
*Bernice Swarts is the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Janine
Thu, 10/31/2024 - 10:24
61 views
Treasury Defends SRD Grant Regulations
The Institute of Economic Justice is challenging regulations for the Social Relief of Distress grant which it says are unconstitutional.
United Kingdom (UK) Visa Services in South Africa Are Now Available in PE/GQ Through VFS Global
VFS Global (www.VFSGlobal.com) are proud to announce that residents of South Africa, travelling to the UK can now book appointments to submit their visa applications through VFS Global's new state-of-the-art Visa Application Centres located in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth and Pretoria.
Effective 22 October 2024, customers applying for a UK visa will be directed to VFS Global to book an appointment to complete their visa application. Customers will also have the option to choose additional services designed to make the application process easier.
Commenting on the launch of the new Centres, Mr. Alok Singhal, Head- Sub-Saharan Africa, VFS Global, said, “We are excited to embark on this new journey with UK Visas and Immigration here in South Africa. We have enjoyed a long-standing partnership with UK Visas and Immigration since 2003 and look forward to now bringing travellers from South Africa our best-in-class services.”
UK visa customers can now choose from a range of optional services offered by VFS Global to provide enhanced comfort and convenience. These include document upload assistance, Prime Time for application submission outside of business hours, SMS notifications, document checking service, and courier return of the passport once a decision has been made.
Customers can also submit their UK visa applications from the comfort and safety of their home, office or any other preferred location with our On Demand Mobile Visa service. VFS Global's Keep My Passport While Applying service allows customers to keep their passports once their application is submitted and biometrics have been enrolled. Customer will only need to re-submit their passport when a decision is reached.
The services can be booked in advance on https://apo-opa.co/4f4Yw1G or at the Visa Application Centre at the time of the appointment. These services are completely optional and have no bearing on the processing timeline and outcomes of visa applications.
As a partner to the UK Visas and Immigration since 2003, VFS Global offered visa services in 58 countries before the new contract and has now been awarded the contract to provide UK visa services in 142 countries worldwide. In the African region, VFS Global will provide Visa Application Centres for the UK in 31 countries, from October 2024.
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UK Visa Application Centres in South Africa Cape Town: 2 Long Street, 9th floor, nr 2 on Long Street, 8001 Port Elizabeth: Greyville House, 3rd Floor, Greyville House Building, Corner of Ring Road, Caper Road & Greyville Road, Greenacres Durban: Glass House, 309 Umhlanga Rocks Drive, Umhlanga Johannesburg: Rivonia Village, 3rd, Cnr Rivonia Boulevard and Mutual Road, Sandton, 2128 Pretoria: The Podium at Menlyn - 4th Floor, 43 Ingersol Rd, Lynnwood Glen, 0081 |
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Website: https://apo-opa.co/4f4Yw1G Business hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri, except public holidays) Application submission: 9 AM to 4 PM (Mon to Fri, except public holidays) Passport collection: 12 PM to 3 PM (Mon to Fri, except public holidays) Primetime submission and collection: 8 AM to 9 AM & 4 PM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri, except public holidays) |
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VFS Global.
Media Contact:
George Cherian
georgec@vfsglobal.com
communications@vfsglobal.com
About VFS Global:
As the world's leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.
With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 69 client governments. Operating over 3,400 Application Centres in 153 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 297 million applications since 2001.
Headquartered in Zurich and majority owned through investment funds managed by Blackstone Inc, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.
More Clients Prepare for Electrification
Pretoria, South Africa, 30 October 2024: JLR reports growing demand for plug-in hybrid models, with global retail sales for the first half of the financial year up 29% compared to the prior year, as more customers use the technology as a stepping stone towards battery electric vehicles (BEV). For the Range Rover brand, global plug-in …
SANDF and Russian Aerospace Forces strengthen ties
SANDF and Russian Aerospace Forces strengthen ties
South Africa is hosting Russia’s Aerospace Forces to strengthen ties between the two nations.
“The South African National Defence Force through the South African Air Force welcomes the Aerospace Forces of the Russian Federation on their goodwill visit to the Republic of South Africa,” the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) said in a statement on Tuesday.
The Russian air arsenal arrived at the Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria on Tuesday and will remain in the country until Friday, 01 November 2024.
This visit is part of a demonstration of defence cooperation aimed at strengthening military-to-military relations, particularly with the South African Air Force (SAAF).
The two countries are also expected to host bilateral seminars of both technical staff where officials deliberate on combat planning and the planning philosophy as well as search and rescue matters.
The SANDF stated that the visit aims to reaffirm the diplomatic ties between the two countries’ military organisations and is founded on strong historical connections that date back to 1992.
This led to the Ministries of Defence of both countries penning an agreement in 1995 that the joint unit of Russia’s Aerospace Forces will from time-to-time visit South Africa.
“The SANDF will emerge as big heirs of this visit which sets a platform for the SAAF to gain knowledge and exposure to the large military air assets including the IL-62, AN-124, and Tupolev Tu-160 ‘Blackjack’ bombers which are the first to ever land on the African continent.
“This is part of the South African National Defence Force’s broader military-to-military partnership framework with several other defence forces across the globe,” the SANDF explained. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 10/30/2024 - 10:04
75 views
Ukraine visa agreement still undergoing diplomatic processes
Ukraine visa agreement still undergoing diplomatic processes
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has confirmed that the long-awaited visa waiver for Ukrainian holders of diplomatic and official passports will move forward through diplomatic channels, with the agreement to be signed upon the completion of the necessary procedures.
“Once those processes have been concluded, the agreement will then be concluded, which will enable our diplomats and services and official passports to be able to travel between the two countries seamlessly,” the Minister said on Monday.
Lamola made the remarks in Pretoria while hosting his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
“The agreement has not been signed and once all the diplomatic processes have been concluded, the agreement will be signed. The officials between the two departments, including the Department of Home Affairs, have agreed in terms of the text of this agreement, which represents progress because it’s a process that was started by my predecessor.”
Lamola noted that the process was “ripe” for conclusion and stated that his team was dedicated to completing the project.
Lamola said he has noted the Ukraine’s request for reciprocity concerning ordinary citizens.
“As we are aware, we service our citizens and the citizens of Ukraine through Warsaw in Poland, which complicates our work. We will process this matter through our own internal mechanisms, and we’ll be able to give you feedback through the diplomatic channels.
“Regarding this request, we deliberated on constraints to fragile international security, including, but not limited, to the current wars.”
Lamola told Sybiha and his delegates that he was pleased to learn that the Ukraine wants peace, and that they are willing and ready to engage with Russia, as suggested by South Africa.
“We believe that in this conflict, it’s important that all the warring factions are on the table, and they [are] able to engage.
“They cannot only meet on the battlefield, because any peaceful resolution will come through diplomatic engagements and peaceful negotiations of the conflict that is currently ongoing.”
Lamola believes that it is important to find long-lasting peace in this ongoing conflict that has affected the global supply of grain and food prices across the globe.
“It is in the interest of us and the people of the world that we see a peaceful resolution to this conflict, and we look forward to that engagement through the peace formula that will involve all the parties.”
Lamola said he was looking forward to continuing the engagement between the two parties, with regard to the Africa Initiative led by President Cyril Ramaphosa and other African leaders.
This initiative aims to persuade the parties to a negotiation platform, Lamola explained, adding that South Africa is also part of the China-Brazil initiative, which is also pushing to bring the parties to any engagement. Lamola said he is hopeful that one day this will be realised.
Lamola told the delegation that South Africa, which has also engaged in peace efforts in Africa, particularly in the Sahel region and Sudan, was “very concerned” about the current humanitarian crisis.
This includes the maiming of innocent children and women in Sudan, while the Red Cross, the largest humanitarian organisation, has declared the Sahel region as one of the biggest humanitarian disasters the world has ever seen.
Shifting his focus back to the political consultations, Lamola said South Africa is looking forward to allowing diplomatic processes that will enable the strengthening of bilateral trade between South Africa and the Ukraine.
This involves the areas of trade, digital transformation, agriculture and many other fields, including the skills gap that exists in both nations.
Meanwhile, Lamola said his department will process the invite they received to visit the Ukraine.
“We will be able to give feedback in terms of what is possible after we have followed all the diplomatic processes,” he said.
He also stressed South Africa’s non-alignment stance and the country’s participation in various initiatives aimed at finding a solution to this ongoing conflict.
“There must be a channel of communication that is open, that enables them to engage on some issues, including finding a ceasefire in that conflict. This is very important for the people of the group, in line with the UN [United Nations] Charter.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 10/29/2024 - 13:05
268 views
NLC strategy to be implemented over a six-year period
NLC strategy to be implemented over a six-year period
The National Lotteries Commission (NLC) says its organisational turnaround strategy is under way and will be fully implemented over a six-year period.
The strategy includes modernisation and streamlining processes, stronger oversight mechanisms and built-in fraud prevention.
Addressing the media in Pretoria on Tuesday afternoon, NLC Commissioner Jodi Scholtz said they have been working hard on the strategy.
“We have worked diligently to respond to the frustrations of our stakeholders around the long wait for funding, while ensuring that we build fraud-prevention into our processes, increase the efficiency and enhance the impact of our work through the development of a new grant application and management system,” said Scholtz.
Scholtz announced the readiness of the commission’s reparative measures programme to address harm caused to individuals and communities by previous actions of maladministration and to rehabilitate the identified community infrastructure projects to their intended state.
While the interactions with the affected parties would largely be behind closed doors, she said, a commitment was made to share milestones of the reparative measures publicly, with an emphasis that each community infrastructure project would be addressed based on the Special Investigative Unit (SIU) report, community engagement and other relevant reports.
The SIU was, in terms of Proclamation R32 of 2020, authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of NLC and the conduct of NLC officials and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State.
The SIU said in February it had made eight criminal referrals to the National Prosecuting Unit and 11 disciplinary referrals to NLC officials.
The unit said the investigation in its totality is worth approximately R1.4 billion, which the State and the NLC have allegedly lost due to corruption at the organisation.
Grant funding processes
Scholtz touched on continuing enhancements to its grant funding processes aimed at increasing efficiencies and improving the service experience of applicants and grantees.
This was alongside continuing engagements with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) to facilitate the appointment of additional members for the Distributing Agencies in order to increase the pace of adjudications.
With the Call for Applications for 2024/25 intended to open at the tail end of 2024, the NLC announced the revival of Section 2A(3) of the Lotteries Act following the 2022 moratorium on what was then known as Proactive Funding.
Now renamed Research-Based Funding (RBF), and with a strengthened policy that ensures transparency at all stages that will mitigate the internal control deficiencies that existed under Proactive Funding, the RBF is to be launched with two critical programmes aimed at addressing pressing societal needs in South Africa - food security and primary health care.
The Eastern Cape province will serve as a pilot province.
Scholtz noted that while the Request for Proposals for the appointment of the Fourth National Lottery Operator was the subject of much interest, engagement with the public and media in that regard would only take place once the process had been concluded in its entirety by Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau.
“Our journey to restore trust and achieve operational excellence is just that – a journey and it requires agility. We have started from within, and the team’s dedication to our turnaround has been commendable so far.
“We know that we have much to do, and notwithstanding the challenges we face, we are committed to achieving what we have set out to do.
“The work is gaining momentum, and we fully intend to maintain it. We are delighted at the determination and positive energy of the team at the NLC,” Scholtz said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 10/29/2024 - 15:26
107 views
Opposition to Open Cast Coal Mining in Midvaal
For years residents have been objecting to the Springfield and Vlakfontein mining project
Police festive season operations in full swing
Police festive season operations in full swing
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, says the police’s festive season operations are in full swing in all provinces.
“The work of organised crime syndicates is being dealt a blow, and we remain hard at work in increasing the speed with which we proactively deal with criminals,” Masemola said at a briefing in Pretoria on Monday.
His remarks come as the country approaches the holiday season in December.
Masemola said through ongoing crime combatting high-density operations, known as Operation Shanela, police have arrested over 900 000 suspects since its inception in May 2023.
Through Operation Shanela, police have seized and confiscated illegal firearms, which are being used in serious and violent crimes across the country.
“Just this past week, 132 firearms were seized and in the previous week, 138 firearms were seized. From April 2024 to date, police have seized more than 4 400 firearms during operations across the country.
“We continue to stamp the police’s authority through increased police visibility, coordinated bold and decisive law enforcement operations and most importantly, improved community participation in the fight against crime,” he said.
Masemola commended the overwhelming support and improved active citizenry displayed by South Africans from all walks of life in assisting the men and women in blue with information to track down wanted criminals.
“We have witnessed increased cooperation and unity displayed in working closely with communities on various cases, including the recent arrest of six suspects linked to the Lusikisiki mass shooting, and the arrest of Phethe Simiao, a Mozambican national, who has been arrested in connection with the rape and murder of six-year-old Amantle Samane.
“I take this opportunity, on behalf of the men and women in blue, to thank our communities, the social media community and media houses for playing their role in broadcasting and sharing information rapidly with all South Africans. This ultimately led police in the right direction to apprehend these cold-hearted criminals,” Masemola said.
He called on communities to continue to work with the police, saying more criminals, more firearms and more drugs will be seized.
“The ongoing mass shootings in provinces like the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Western Cape are a concern, and require us, as the police, to ramp up our efforts to put a stop to these shootings that are often perpetuated with illegal, unlicensed and high caliber firearms.
“These recent incidents have seen us constantly refining our crime combatting strategies. It is encouraging that in most, if not all, mass shootings, arrests have been made,” Masemola said.
He said their operational focus remains on the tracing of known wanted criminals, and the detection and removal of illegal firearms from the streets.
“In all these areas, we have beefed up and reinforced deployments, and also deployed specialised teams, inclusive of intelligence and organised crime detectives.
“It is important to note that these four provinces -- the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Eastern Cape -- are always prioritised, and always receive the largest number of newly trained police officers each year to heighten and increase police visibility in a bid to reduce incidents such as these,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 15:23
67 views
CoGTA, Treasury work together on disaster relief funding
CoGTA, Treasury work together on disaster relief funding
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and National Treasury are working together to explore new funding mechanisms, as the country experiences more disaster events.
On Monday, CoGTA Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa announced that a funding request has been submitted to Treasury to support affected groups and organisations with the reconstruction and rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure.
“We acknowledge the challenges faced by the country in funding disaster interventions, mainly due to increased disaster damages, fiscal deficit and competing priorities.
“The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is currently engaging National Treasury on other funding mechanisms to ensure sustainability,” the Minister said.
He assured those affected and South Africans generally that government remains committed to partnering with local and national entities to strengthen disaster preparedness and response, and rebuilding communities.
Hlabisa was speaking during a media briefing in Pretoria, where he focused on South Africa’s readiness for the upcoming summer season and disaster preparedness.
He said the Finance Minister will announce a substantial allocation to grants to deal with past disasters, at the municipal and provincial levels, when he tables his Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement on Wednesday.
“... After that, we will give details in as far as the funding that will be available, and how it will be allocated,” said Hlabisa.
The Minister highlighted the devastating floods in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal recently, which led to significant displacement and loss of life.
He said relief measures are being implemented, including housing for displaced households and food assistance.
The Minister said communities, infrastructure and the economy face significant threats from natural hazards such as floods, heat waves, wildfires and droughts.
“While the pressing realities of climate change have exacerbated some of these risks, others are unfortunately man-made, stemming from unsustainable practices and inadequate planning. We believe that recognising these risks is the first step towards addressing them comprehensively.”
Hlabisa acknowledged that emerging hazards require attention, and that the National Disaster Management Centre is working around the clock to mitigate the effects.
“Given the continued negative impact of these hazards on the lives of South Africans, we understand that it cannot be business as usual. We understand that we must act decisively to safeguard the wellbeing of all citizens and protect our vulnerable communities.”
The implementation of relief measures is underway in all the affected areas, particularly in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, which is one of the most affected.
These relief measures, Hlabisa said, are a collaborative effort by organs of the State, the private sector, and non-governmental organisations. The measures include housing of displaced households in temporary evacuation facilities, providing hot meals, food parcels, blankets and mattresses, as well as psychosocial support to the affected.
In addition, the Minister said assessments are underway to establish the extent of the damage and required interventions.
CoGTA has been working tirelessly with disaster management structures, including the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, to coordinate the response efforts to the recent heavy rains.
“We are also working closely with municipalities, the provincial government and other stakeholders to ensure that affected communities receive the necessary support, including food, shelter, and other essential services.
"The department will continue to monitor the situation and support affected communities.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 13:55
48 views
Government Must Protect Legitimate Srd Grant Applicants, Say Activists
Universal Basic Income Coalition say fraudulent applications only represent a “small proportion of applications”
Gardener Mauled to Death by Former Lottery Boss’s Guard Dog
Stevens Mabuse, who worked for Phillemon Letwaba, was killed by a pit bull when he came home in the early hours
Government activities for the week 28 October – 01 November 2024
Government activities for the week 28 October – 01 November 2024
On Monday, 28 October, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, will launch an Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) listening tour in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
Also on Monday, Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhauli to deliver an address at the UNDP Just Energy Transition and youth employment roundtable discussion.
On Tuesday, 29 October, Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, will officially launch the Summer Campaign in Bloemfontein at the De Oude Kraal Country Estate, N1 South Bloemfontein.
Also on Tuesday, the Presidential Climate Commission in conjunction with the Department of Water and Sanitation will host a high-level 3 Sector Climate Adaptation Readiness in South Africa’s Water Value Chain Workshop in Pretoria.
On Wednesday, 30 October, Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana will present the 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (“2024 MTBPS”) to Parliament.
On Thursday, 31 October, no confirmed events.
On Friday, 01 November, no confirmed events.
Neo
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 11:02
71 views
Home Affairs Chairperson Reminds People to Contribute to Electoral Reform Panel Call for Public Submissions
The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, Mr Mosa Chabane, has called on the public, political parties and prospective independent candidates to effectively contribute by making public comments to the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel by 31 October 2024.
The panel has extended its deadline to 31 October following a request by the committee to enable extensive public participation in its process to assess electoral systems and recommend an appropriate system for the country. “Public participation is enshrined in the Constitution because of the need for informed decision-making. By making submissions, South Africans will be contributing to shaping South Africa's constitutional trajectory going forward,” Mr Chabane said.
The Electoral Reform Consultation Panel is a critical body that was established to examine the current electoral system and many others across the world, as per section 23 (9) (b) of the Electoral Amendment Act of 2023.
It is important therefore, according to Mr Chabane, that as the panel continues its work it is supported effectively. “South Africans cannot abdicate the responsibility to jointly build and develop our constitutional democracy. We owe it to ourselves, gallant freedom fighters that fought for our liberation and future generations to make meaningful contribution to this new phase in our democratic dispensation,” Mr Chabane concluded.
The submissions can send by email to: ERCP@dha.gov.za or hand delivered to House 1, Ministry of Home Affairs, 909 Arcadia Street, Hatfield, Pretoria. Alternatively, the submissions can be delivered by hand to the nearest Home Affairs Office.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Elderly Ga-Rankuwa Residents March to Demand Tarred Roads
“When it rains we can’t even go to the shops”
Pioneering Past, Innovative Future
It has been an entire year since Ford South Africa kicked off its Centenary celebrations, marking the company’s exceptional legacy that helped create and shape the automotive industry that we have today – one that, in 2023, accounted for 5.3 percent of the country’s total GDP and 21.9 percent of its manufacturing output according to …
Transforming lives with beauty training
Transforming lives with beauty training
By Sinovuyo Mfiki
In Kwa-Ndebele in Mpumalanga, beautician Precious Mabotja is making a mark with her business, Prexxy Beauty Academy and Spa.
The 30-year-old entrepreneur, who founded her business in 2023, is not just providing beauty services; she is on a mission to empower individuals and fight poverty by offering valuable education and skills.
The academy’s course range includes nail technology, waxing, massage and make-up.
After studying cosmetology at Tshwane South Technical Vocational Educational Training College in Pretoria, Mabotja polished her skills over seven years, working as a massage therapist and waxing specialist in various salons across Pretoria and Sandton.
These experiences fuelled her desire to start her own business, which also uplifts those around her.
“After working in salons, I realised I had the experience and knowledge to create something meaningful for my community,” she reflects.
She said finding the right space for her vision was not easy. As a start, the Public Works Department allowed her to use a classroom in a former primary school. She converted it into a centre for learning and growth.
“I started the business after doing a learnership and I was earning about R1 400 a month, so I had to save every month. Although that was not even enough to maintain me, I pushed for what I wanted,” said Mabotja.
Currently, Prexxy Beauty Academy is home to fourteen students. Mabotja recently awarded two individuals, one was homeless and the other a recovering addict, with scholarships from Prexxy Beauty Academy.
Mabotja sees the academy as a beacon of hope. “It is not just about beauty it is about rebuilding lives.”
However, the journey has not been without its hardships, highlighting that starting a business can be tough, especially when support is limited.
“Sometimes you do not get the backing you need simply because you are new. People first need to see your work before they believe in you,” she shares.
Despite these challenges, her dedication and vision continue to inspire confidence in her students and the community.
With three employees, including herself, she is not only changing lives through education, but also creating job opportunities.
For more information about the Prexxy Beauty Academy, contact Precious Mabotja at 079 405 5214 or https://prexxy.co.za or info@prexxy.co.za.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Fri, 10/25/2024 - 11:14
72 views