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Sportsmans Warehouse Premier Interschools is thrilled to introduce a new derby to its prestigious lineup: Hoërskool Garsfontein from Pretoria take on Hoërskool Monument from Krugersdorp. This match marks the first time these two rugby powerhouses meet under the banner of the Noordvaal Cup, adding an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to an already intense …
200 oil producers, stakeholders from Southern Africa gather in Pretoria
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) will this week host the 3rd South African Conference on Essential and Vegetable Oils, bringing together 200 oil producers and stakeholders from across South Africa and Southern Africa.
The event aims to share innovative trends in the global marketplace, including various applications for essential and vegetable oils, and to address critical issues faced by this industry.
According to the department, attendees will gain valuable insights from proven experts on the most pressing challenges, equipping them with the knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic essential and vegetable oils sector.
Acting Deputy Director-General of Sectors at the dtic, Thandi Phele, said the upcoming conference will be a significant step in strengthening the quality of essential and vegetable oil exports from South Africa.
Phele said the conference will highlight the “technical competence and the sustainability of the National Quality Infrastructure system and the conformity assessment services that serve the selected value chains in this industry”.
SADC compliance with international standards, technical regulations and culture for quality will be addressed.
“This conference will serve as a pivotal platform for knowledge sharing and networking among key industry players. Our collaboration with SECO, UNIDO, and SAEOPA underscores our commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the essential and vegetable oils industry," she said.
The conference will feature a series of presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, focusing on:
• Innovative trends shaping the global essential and vegetable oils market
• Addressing critical challenges faced by producers and stakeholders
• Strategies for expanding market reach from local to global
Head of SECO in South Africa, Daniel Lauchenauer, says the gathering presents an unparalleled opportunity for stakeholders to engage with industry leaders, share best practices, and forge partnerships that will drive the industry forward.
According to SAEOPA, the global essential oils market size was valued at $11 billion in 2023. It is projected to grow to $12,47 billion in 2024 and $27,82 billion by 2032.
South African exports of essential oils, perfumes, cosmetics and toiletries was $679 million during 2023, according to the United Nations Commodity Trade Statistics database on international trade.
The department will host the conference at the South African National Botanical Gardens in Pretoria from 25-26 July 2024, in partnership with the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO, the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the Southern African Essential Oils Producers Association (SAEOPA),
The theme for the conference is “Local to Global: East West, Home is Best”. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 07/23/2024 - 09:45
Pretoria, South Africa, 22 July 2024: Jaguar TCS Racing has won the 2024 ABB FIA Formula E Teams’ World Championship. The win follows a dramatic season finale E-Prix in London, but one that ultimately ended with a record season points score of 368 for Jaguar TCS Racing. It is Jaguar’s first World Championship win since …
The Bulls Daisies locked in top spot on the log and semi-final hosting rights in the Women’s Premier Division by beating DHL Western Province in Pretoria on Friday in a performance that can arguably be rated as their best of the season, while the race for the final spot in the top-four is still on. The …
Once again South Africans honoured the legacy of Nelson Mandela on Thursday, 18 July. Hundreds of Southern Sun employees went out into their local communities to volunteer at the many projects that are regularly supported by the group’s hotels and resorts in South Africa. Heeding the call to collectively address social and economic security of …
Centurion, South Africa – Myofascial pain can often be a hidden culprit behind persistent muscle tightness and restricted movement. Many individuals unknowingly suffer from chronic myofascial pain, turning to painkillers for temporary relief. However, these medications are not a sustainable solution. The Chiropractors, a leading Chiropractic Centre in Menlyn and Centurion, offers a holistic and …
SIU to collect over R100 million from unqualified NSFAS beneficiaries
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has signed Acknowledgement of Debt (AoD) agreements with 421 students who did not qualify to be funded by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
SIU Spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago, said the total value of the AoD amounts to R112 174 825,97.
“In addition to the AoDs, the SIU has made progress in recovering unallocated funds with the University of Fort Hare being the latest university to pay back unallocated funds of R277 666 450. This brings the total of recoveries to R1 165 887 062,” Kganyago said.
The SIU has so far recovered the following funds from institutions of higher learning:
• West Coast College- R5 057 679.00
• Northlink College- R33 369 404.97
• Walter Sisulu University- R19 900 174.00
• Nkangala TVET- R342 672.50
• University of Mpumalanga- R33 668 138.19
• University of Zululand- R58 088 144.65
• University of Fort Hare- R277 666 450.00
• University of Pretoria- R400 000 000.00
• Majuba TVET College- R25 902 309.31
• University of Johannesburg- R311 892 088.94
The SIU expressed its gratitude to the cooperative attitude of parents and unqualified NSFAS beneficiaries who have signed the acknowledgement of debt and agreed to repay the money over some time.
“The SIU is urging unqualified NSFAS beneficiaries who have not been in contact with the unit to come forward and arrange for repayment,” Kganyago said.
An SIU investigation has revealed that NSFAS failed to design and implement controls to ensure that there is an annual reconciliation between the funds disbursed to institutions of higher learning and the allocation of those funds to the students.
These control weaknesses have led to overpayments and underpayments of funds to the different institutions over the period of 2017 to date.
NSFAS has appointed a service provider to assist in performing the reconciliation via a “close-out reporting” process which is still ongoing.
Kganyago noted that the SIU is in terms of Proclamation R88 of 2022, authorised to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of NSFAS and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State through corruption and negligence.
“The SIU is empowered to institute a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name, to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during both investigations caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration.
“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action,” Kganyago said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 07/19/2024 - 09:03
Lawyers for Human Rights takes this issue to the High Court next month.
Repo rate remains at 8.25%
The South African Reserve Bank’s monetary policy committee (MPC) has decided to keep the repo rate at 8.5% for the seventh time in a row, despite a slight improvement in the inflation rate.
Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago announced the decision following the July MPC meeting in Pretoria.
Four members voted to keep the rate unchanged, while two preferred to cut it by 25 basis points.
“In discussing the stance, MPC members agreed that restrictive policy remains appropriate to stabilise inflation at 4.5%. The committee assessed that an unchanged stance remained appropriate, given the inflation risks.
“Some members, however, were of the view that the inflation outlook had improved enough to reduce the degree of restrictiveness,” Kganyago said on Thursday.
This means that the current prime lending rate remains at 11.75%, based on a repo rate of 8.25%.
However, Kganyago said the Bank remains concerned about administered prices.
“We have had to mark up electricity inflation for this forecast round, even as other categories shifted lower,” he said, adding that services price inflation also remains uncomfortably above the mid-point.
He spoke at length about inflation. The most recent headline print for May was 5.2%, unchanged from April and still in the top half of the target range.
“The outlook, however, has improved somewhat. Headline consumer price inflation for this year is now projected at 4.9%, compared to 5.1% at the previous meeting.”
Meanwhile, Kganyago predicted that in the next few quarters, the headline is expected to drop below the 4.5% midpoint, mainly due to fuel and food prices.
“This outlook is supported by the stronger rand. The implied starting point for our forecast is now at R18.35 to the US dollar. Over the medium term, we continue to see inflation stabilising at 4.5%, with core inflation remaining close to this midpoint objective throughout.”
The Governor said the forecast continues to see rates easing into more “neutral territory” by next year.
“As before, the rate path from the Quarterly Projection Model remains a broad policy guide, changing from meeting to meeting,” he said.
He said the decisions of the MPC will continue to be data-dependent and “sensitive” to the balance of risks to the outlook.
“We are committed to stabilising inflation at the mid-point of the target band. Achieving this outcome will improve the economic outlook and reduce borrowing costs.”
Kganyago stressed the committee’s views on additional measures that would improve economic conditions.
He mentioned the need to achieve a reasonable public debt level, enhance the operation of network industries, reduce controlled price inflation, and align real wage growth with productivity gains.
The next meeting of the MPC will be on 19 September 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 16:14
All eyes on SA's First Citizen
Many South Africans are expected to be glued to their screens this evening, 18 July 2024, as they eagerly wait to hear from President Cyril Ramaphosa, when he delivers the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at 7pm.
As South Africa struggles with rising fuel and food prices, youth unemployment, crime and corruption, amongst others, many citizens are seeking hope and will be looking to President Ramaphosa’s speech for much-needed optimism as he leads the country under the Government of National Unity (GNU) banner.
President Ramaphosa was re-elected for a second term last month at the first sitting of the National Assembly since the highly contested elections of 29 May.
He received 283 votes, while the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, received 44 votes for the top job.
The Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, has described the OPA ceremony as a historic event and said that the opening of Parliament reaffirms the government’s commitment to constitutional democracy.
“It serves as a powerful symbol for our nation’s ability to overcome adversity and continue the important work of governance,” Didiza said at a media briefing on Thursday to outline Parliament's state of readiness for the big event today, expected to showcase all the colourful and elegantly put together ceremonial aspects, befitting the Opening of Parliament.
Key areas
Speaking to SAnews, University of South Africa (Unisa) political analyst, Professor Dirk Kotze, said he expected the President's speech to focus on the economy.
“The issues he emphasised in the past will continue; the economic recovery plan, I suspect will still be the basis of his focus and [the] employment matter - how to create employment.”
Kotze also believes that the President will address infrastructure matters, foreign investments, and issues regarding electricity and water.
“I think the matter that is an overarching issue is how to deal with the fiscal issue and how there’s a reduction of the budgets in all of the different departments and how to try to improve the fiscal situation as a whole,” he told SAnews.
According to Kotze, the President’s speech usually covers almost all the departments, and that people can expect the same from the OPA.
He will also reaffirm the government's commitment to the fundamental principles of multilateralism, non-partisanship, and democracy, said the analyst.
“He should also create an environment which will make the GNU attractive for South Africans and the international community. I don’t know how exactly he’s going to do it, but he will have to build trust in the new government.”
Kotze also suspects that President Ramaphosa will address the GNU, discussing what they have already agreed upon, how it should function, and how Cabinet should operate.
“I think that will be the important part of the speech,” he explained.
The road to OPA
The Opening of Parliament signifies the formal start of the parliamentary year and is usually marked by grandeur, ceremony, and glamorous fashion that sparks conversation.
However, it is more than just that; but a significant ceremony where the Head of State outlines the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies during a joint sitting of the newly constituted two Houses of Parliament to deliver the OPA of the seventh administration.
The OPA occurs once every five years, following the Provincial and National Elections. It outlines the new administration’s plans and the official opening of the new five-year term of Parliament.
The President presided over the first Cabinet lekgotla of the administration at Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria over the weekend, where Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and Premiers gathered to discuss the government’s agenda.
The OPA will also provide an opportunity to hear the direction government is taking under the GNU.
According to Parliament, the address serves as a unifying force for the whole nation to collaborate and continue the progress made by past governments.
“It draws us in a common front to find ways to address the challenges we face and improve the lives of people.”
Mandela Day
This year’s opening of Parliament coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day.
July 18 marks the birthday of the founding President of a democratic South Africa and is a global celebration. It is a day for personal and collective actions for good that honour the leader’s life and legacy.
The Presidency has since called on citizens and communities to take time to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and to make a positive impact on communities globally.
The OPA will take place at the Cape Town City Hall.
South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone.
Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:57
Home Affairs has failed to comply with two court rulings
As the dust settles from the June holidays, anticipation builds for one of Pretoria’s most thrilling rugby derbies: Waterkloof versus Afrikaans Hoër Seunskool (Affies). This storied rivalry, which began in 1987, has seen 46 fierce battles with Affies claiming 36 victories and Waterkloof securing 10. Remarkably, there have been no draws, but with both teams …
New Police Minister outlines priorities
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says the seventh administration will act decisively to bring the high level of crime in the country, under control.
“It is our view and understanding that tough measures may need to be taken to reduce crime where necessary,” Mchunu said, addressing the media in Pretoria on Monday on the Ministry’s priorities, following the establishment of the Government of National Unity after the General Elections.
“We are honoured and humbled to have been given the enormous responsibility of ensuring that South Africans are safe and feel safer.
“We have spent the first week in office meeting with the executive management, provincial commissioners and divisional heads of the South African Police Service. We have done this to ensure that we have a broad understanding of the portfolio, including the challenges and opportunities, so that we can map out the priorities and urgent tasks at hand,” said the Minister.
He said he had benefited from briefings from the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) and the Civilian Secretariat for the Police Service as well as various organisations and institutions within the security arena.
“The crime levels in the country are on the increase and are intolerable. We need to act decisively and bring this under control.
“The levels and type of crime differ from one province to the other. We need to take this into account as we implement the integrated National Crime Prevention Strategy,” said the Minister.
Currently, the leading crimes in the country are contact crimes such as murders and rape, as well as hijackings and kidnappings for ransom payments.
“The killing of women and children also continues to be cause for serious concern and warrants intensive action from law enforcement. Our mission is clear - our country must be safe for all citizens. People all over South Africa must be able to move around at any time without fear of marauding criminals.
“Gang violence is also on the rise, noticeably in the Western Cape. The situation must be brought under control so that children in the Cape Flats, Khayelitsha (Site C), parts of Nelson Mandela Bay and parts of Gauteng can be able to play in the streets without fear of being hit by stray bullets,” he said.
Mchunu said as the police, they take the issue of “construction mafias” in the country very seriously.
“This trend is associated with destructive activities which disrupt construction and infrastructure development which our country urgently requires.
“Genuine quests for economic transformation can be handled through the correct channels and by using existing policy prescripts, without resorting to hijacking construction sites and using extortion to source business. This matter will continue to receive priority attention,” the Minister said.
Police will prioritise the amendments to the South African Police Service Act as it is outdated, still making incorrect references to the 1993 Interim Constitution.
“It needs to be in line with modern day crime fighting and prevention demands. We will also finalise the National Policy on Policing. It must take into account provincial needs and priorities,” Mchunu said.
He said there was an urgent need to professionalise the SAPS and instill positive ethical values, patriotism and the understanding that the primary duty of a police officer is to always serve and protect the public.
“Uprooting corruption and removing corrupt police officers from SAPS will remain a top priority. Misconduct by SAPS members will not be tolerated and action will be taken.
“We want to change the negative perceptions of our police officers. People must respect police officers; have confidence in them and feel safe in their midst. Professionalism in the work of police is also part of the police protection mechanism.
“Our police officers need to work in a conducive environment. We are committed to ensuring that our police stations are well-resourced. We have to provide the necessary tools and vehicles to serve our communities effectively,” he said.
According to Mchunu, over the past two years, over 20 000 new police officers have been trained.
“We will strive to continue bolstering capacity and to enhance police training. A police officer must attend regular refresher courses to stay operationally ready. We will also strengthen some existing units within the police force,” he said.
With regard to the use of technology in the police service, Mchunu said the integration of technology in police services is crucial for enhancing the efficiency, effectiveness and overall capability of law enforcement.
“We will prioritise the roll out of new technologies to detect and deter crimes. Advanced technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, surveillance systems, and digital communication tools enable police to better predict, prevent, and respond to criminal activities.
“These tools provide officers with real-time information, improve decision-making, and facilitate faster, more accurate investigations. Technology also enhances transparency and accountability and fosters greater public trust.
“We will benchmark against other successful law enforcement agencies worldwide and endeavour to bring SAPS on par with the best in terms of technology and operational efficiency,” Mchunu said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:06
South Africa will decarbonise at a pace affordable to the economy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated that South Africa will decarbonise at a pace and scale that is affordable to the economy and society.
“If we act too fast, we risk damaging huge sections of our economy before we have built alternative energy and industrial capabilities. At the same time, not acting now risks our economic stability,” President Ramaphosa said on Monday.
The President was speaking at the Climate Resilience Symposium, which is underway at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) International Convention Centre, in Pretoria.
READ | Climate resilience tops agenda at symposium
Held under the theme, 'Moving the needle on climate change and just transition: The role of the National Treasury', the three-day symposium, taking place from 15 - 17 July 2024, aims to integrate climate goals into macro-fiscal and finance policy.
It also aims to improve government coordination by mainstreaming climate change considerations into the intergovernmental fiscal system, amongst others.
In his address, President Ramaphosa stressed the importance of strengthening systems for adaptation and mitigation, building resilience in communities, and accelerating the decarbonisation efforts and the pace of the just energy transition.
“The reality we must confront is that the carbon-intensity of our economy is unsustainable and for decades our reliance on coal was a competitive advantage because it allowed us to produce electricity cheaply, but the world has changed and this dependency has come to pose significant risks,” President Ramaphosa said.
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As the world moves towards greener economies, the country’s trading partners, the President said, will take measures to ensure that their own climate actions do not undermine their economies.
He said instruments like the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which has the potential to cause great damage to developing economies, signal the inevitability of carbon pricing in global trade systems.
He said the country’s emissions-intensive energy system is likely to increasingly undermine its competitiveness in global markets.
Safeguarding the nation
President Ramaphosa called on South Africa to embrace a managed transition to a low-carbon economy, not only to safeguard its people and environment, but to ensure the country’s economic resilience and growth.
He warned that the country is facing a climate emergency, and indecision and slow action are not an option.
“We must act decisively and swiftly to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure a just transition for all South Africans. We must pursue a green industrial agenda that will create jobs and grow the economy.
“Investments in green infrastructure, renewable energy and climate adaptation measures can be costly, requiring careful financial planning and prioritisation. That is why we have prioritised inclusive growth,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President said government is hard at work implementing the urgent reforms needed to lift growth and pursuing a fiscal strategy that protects the sustainability of public finances.
He noted that Operation Vulindlela has been an extremely successful partnership between National Treasury, the Presidency and a wide range of government departments.
“It has enabled significant reforms in areas like energy, water, telecommunications, and transport, making our economy more competitive and increasing our productive capacity.
“Our strategy involves preparing ourselves to withstand the economic risks posed by climate change while taking full advantage of the opportunities of the energy transition. This is no easy balance,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:18
South Africa aims for zero emissions by 2050
President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa aims to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Speaking at the Climate Resilience Symposium underway at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) International Convention Centre in Pretoria, President Ramaphosa said the revised Nationally Determined Contribution balances the country’s developmental needs and economic realities.
“It takes into account the feasibility of undertaking a climate response through a set of just transition pathways. Importantly, it notes carbon tax as a vital component of our mitigation strategy to lower greenhouse gas emissions,” President Ramaphosa said.
By internalising the cost of carbon emissions, the President said the carbon tax incentivises companies to reduce their carbon footprint and invest in cleaner technologies, and also generates revenue for climate initiatives.
The President said these funds can be reinvested in renewable energy projects, energy efficiency programmes and social support mechanisms.
Government has launched a number of other initiatives to meet the country’s emissions targets, and these include the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, which has been successful, attracting over R209 billion in investment and adding much-needed capacity to the electricity grid.
President Ramaphosa said the Integrated Resource Plan, which outlines the country’s energy mix, is in the process of being updated.
The plan sets out a viable energy mix over the medium- and long-term to achieve the decarbonisation objectives.
WATCH | Climate Resilience Symposium
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Just transition
The President said the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan sets out a quantified investment plan of some $98 billion, noting this will drive huge investments in the electricity grid, green hydrogen, electric vehicles, economic diversification, and skills development, amongst others.
“We continue to explore opportunities to meet our emissions reduction targets in minerals extraction, in green hydrogen production, in new power infrastructure, in electric vehicle manufacturing, and economic infrastructure upgrades.
“It is crucial that the transition to a low-carbon economy is just and inclusive and that no worker or community is left behind. The growth of clean tech, renewable energy, battery storage, green hydrogen and minerals for the future low-carbon economy must result in opportunities for affected sectors, employees, and communities,” the President said.
READ | Cabinet approves Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan
The President also noted that government is investing in retraining programmes, creating new job opportunities in renewable energy, and supporting small enterprises in affected areas.
The President further underscored a need for substantial investments to build sustainable infrastructure, develop green technologies and support social programmes.
Moreover, he noted the substantial gap between available disaster funds and the cost of disaster response.
“Even as we have taken proactive measures like setting up a Climate Change Response Fund, we need to think seriously about the urgent financial and policy measures needed to address these shocks, and how to strengthen the National Treasury’s disaster financing response,” the President said.
He said the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is already working with the Presidential Climate Commission on recommendations for the Climate Change Response Fund, and an Adaptation and Resilience Investment Plan to accompany it.
The President called on international partners to fulfil their commitments to finance both, noting that mitigation and adaptation financing remains a challenge.
While acknowledging the positive steps taken with the establishment of the Green Climate Fund, including the Loss and Damage Fund, and other global mechanisms, President Ramaphosa emphasised a need for more innovative financing solutions that mobilise private capital and incentivise sustainable practices.
READ | Climate Loss and Damage Fund to be established for developing countries
“The National Treasury’s Climate Finance Strategy is pivotal in this regard, outlining how we can leverage public and private finance to achieve our climate goals.
“We must not underestimate the importance of our own domestic capital and financial markets to innovatively mobilise and deploy capital towards our just transition,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President announced that the Just Energy Transition Funding Platform will be launched in the next few months.
The funding platform will be an important precursor to a broader Just Transition Financing Mechanism, proposals for which are being developed by the Presidential Climate Commission.
“We call on South African business to invest in the projects needed for a successful just transition in this country. We need to use blended finance to unlock private sector flows,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:47
Pretoria, South Africa – 15 July 2024: JLR has joined forces with global tyre manufacturer Pirelli in a global automotive industry-first commitment to use FSC-certified natural rubber tyres across its range of modern luxury vehicles. The luxury car manufacturer will be the first to adopt FSC-certified tyres at scale, transitioning all tyres from Pirelli across …
Mchunu sets sights on stronger, trusted police force
By Sinovuyo Mfiki
South Africa's new Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has outlined a bold agenda aimed at improving the country's law enforcement agencies.
Mchunu addressed the media in Pretoria on Monday on the Ministry’s priorities, following the establishment of the Government of National Unity after the General Elections.
Vowing to tackle crime, restore public trust and improve the effectiveness of the police force, the Minister said he was honoured and humbled to have been given the “enormous responsibility” of ensuring that South Africans are safe and feel safer.
Mchunu said he would implement careful measures to reduce corruption within the ranks of the police and ensure strict faithfulness to ethical standards and accountability mechanisms.
“The crime levels in the country are on the increase and are intolerable. We need to act decisively and bring this under control.
“This scenario also requires that we think about what management system is needed overall within the police service, which will enable us to respond effectively to the serious challenge we face. It is our view and understanding that tough measures may need to be taken to reduce crime where necessary.”
He said central to the strategy is the urgent need to professionalise the SAPS and instil positive ethical values, patriotism and the understanding that the primary duty of a police officer is to always serve and protect the public.
“Uprooting corruption and removing corrupt police officers from SAPS will remain a top priority. Misconduct by SAPS members will not be tolerated and action will be taken.
“We want to change the negative perceptions of our police officers. People must respect police officers, have confidence in them and feel safe in their midst. Professionalism in the work of police is also part of police protection mechanism,” said the Minister.
Mchunu said in order to do their work police officers need to work in a conducive environment.
The department was committed to ensuring that police stations are well-resourced and have the necessary tools and vehicles to serve communities effectively.
“Police officer must attend regular refresher courses to stay operationally ready. We will also strengthen some existing units within the police force.”
Mchunu said there were plans to update the South African Police Service Act and finalise the National Policy on Policing.
The integration of technologies in police services, Mchunu said, is crucial to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness and overall capability of law enforcement.
“Advanced technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, surveillance systems, and digital communication tools enable police to better predict, prevent, and respond to criminal activities,” said the Minister.
He explained that these tools provide officers with real-time information, improve decision-making, and facilitate faster, more accurate investigations.
“Technology also enhances transparency and accountability and fosters greater public trust. We will benchmark against other successful law enforcement agencies worldwide and endeavour to bring SAPS on par with the best in terms of technology and operational efficiency.” – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 15:30
Government activities for the week 15 – 19 July 2024
On Monday, 15 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the opening session of the National Treasury Climate Resilience Symposium 2024.
The symposium is being hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of partner organisations.
On Monday, 15 July, the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, briefs media on the ministry’s priorities in the seventh administration at the GCIS head office in Pretoria.
On Tuesday, 16 July, the Climate Resilience Symposium 2024 – hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of organisations – continues.
On Tuesday, 16 July, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson will deliver the keynote address at the 2024 Infrastructure Africa Business Forum at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
On Wednesday, 17 July, the Climate Resilience Symposium 2024 – hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of organisations – concludes.
On Thursday, 18 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa will open Parliament in a joint sitting (official Opening of Parliament). 18 July also marks Nelson Mandela International Day in honour of South Africa’s first democratically elected President.
Matona
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 11:26
This Mandela Day, Urology Hospital (UH) in Pretoria will once again partner with African Synergy Health (ASH) for the ASH Mandela Week Surgical Marathon. From July 15-19, they’ll perform life saving surgeries using cutting-edge robotic surgery. Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed in South African men and the fifth leading cause of death globally with …
Gauteng, South Africa – TT Waterproofing, a well-established market leader in the installation of roofing and waterproofing systems, shares valuable insights on the importance of comprehensive waterproofing for homes and businesses. With over nine years of industry experience, TT Waterproofing has become synonymous with reliable roof repairs and waterproofing solutions across Gauteng, including Pretoria. Waterproofing: …
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, explores five tried-and-true methods for clearing a stuffy nose and breathing easier this winter. “According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, winter is a season often associated with a higher incidence of respiratory illnesses that can cause nasal congestion,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “A stuffy …
Robbie Gien, 36, from Fourways, Johannesburg, is set to make a profound impact with every step he takes. As a father to an amazing little boy, husband to a beautiful wife, a sales team leader at Pnet, an online recruitment platform, and an Ironman athlete since 2013 , Robbie is no stranger to pushing his …
Climate resilience tops agenda at symposium
The spotlight will be on climate change as climate experts, including academia and senior government officials, gather at the Climate Resilience Symposium next week.
National Treasury, in partnership with the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank, and a range of partner organisations, will host the three-day Climate Resilience Symposium 2024 in Pretoria from 15 - 17 July 2024.
The symposium will be held under the theme, 'Moving the needle on climate change and just transition: The role of the National Treasury'.
The gathering will bring together Ministers, Deputy Ministers, senior government officials, academia, the private sector and climate experts.
“The objectives of the symposium are to integrate climate goals into macro-fiscal and finance policy; improve government coordination by mainstreaming climate change considerations into the intergovernmental fiscal system; profile National Treasury’s contribution to climate action, and advance and promote policy, advocacy, green growth, and collaboration in addressing climate change challenges across sectors,” National Treasury said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 07/11/2024 - 09:46
Lesufi ‘fully accepts’ judgement in Life Esidimeni inquest
The Gauteng Provincial Government says it fully accepts the judgment in the Life Esidimeni inquest handed down by the Pretoria High Court on Wednesday.
The inquest, which was established in July 2021, sought to investigate the criminal liability for the deaths of 141 mental healthcare users from Life Esidimeni.
Pretoria High Court Judge Mmonoa Teffo has determined that former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and the then Mental Health Director, Dr Makgabo Manamela, can be held accountable for the deaths of some Life Esidimeni patients.
In 2016, the Gauteng Department of Health moved the deceased from Life Esidimeni – a long-term psychiatric care hospital, which provided highly specialised chronic care to mental healthcare users to NGOs, which Teffo described as “ill-equipped” and “inexperienced” to give proper and adequate care.
This conduct, the judge said, led to “regrettable and unfortunate deaths, some of which could have been avoided”.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said: “We are pleased this process that brought so much pain and suffering to those who lost their loved ones, as well as the survivors whose human rights were grossly violated by this tragedy is nearing its end.
“This judgement closes a painful chapter, not only for the affected families but for us as the Gauteng Provincial Government.”
The judgement follows an arbitration process led by retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke that was established in 2018 and culminated in an arbitration award for the victims of the tragedy.
Moseneke gave the provincial government a list of 134 people after he concluded that families should each receive payments of R1 million in constitutional damages from government.
According to the provincial government, all claimants were paid R159 460 000 within the time that was stipulated by Justice Moseneke in his report.
“The only payments that are still outstanding are for the survivors who were not part of the initial arbitration process.”
The provincial government said it was currently administering these claims.
However, the claimants will only receive 50% of the claims upon successful verification. The other half will be held in trust on behalf of the mental healthcare user, which aligns with the Mental Healthcare Act 17 of 2002.
“As the Gauteng Provincial Government, we are confident that the National Prosecuting Authority will take this judgement forward and we await the conclusion of this matter,” the Premier said.
Way forward
Lesufi added that following the Life Esidimeni tragedy, the provincial government has made concerted efforts to ensure that the rights of mental healthcare users are promoted and safeguarded.
“As part of ongoing measures to strengthen mental health care in Gauteng, the provincial government undertook to ensure that the five district Mental Health Review Boards (MHRB) are functional and effective.”
The MHRBs are made up of 27 people with diverse expertise which include legal practitioners, mental healthcare practitioners, and community members with a proven record of community development and involvement.
In response to the growing need for mental health services, the provincial government said it has prioritised the refurbishments and repurposing of some of its healthcare facilities to improve mental healthcare infrastructure and services across the province.
According to the provincial government, several facilities have since been refurbished and opened to ensure enough acute mental health beds in hospitals and to increase mental health resources, including specialised professionals and rehabilitation services.
These facilities include Bertha Gxowa, South Rand, Tshwane District, Tembisa, Edenvale, Dr George Mukhari and Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospitals.
The newly opened Kopanong Gateway Specialised Mental Health Day Clinic offers a basket of free services for mental health patients ranging from counselling, social work services, dual diagnosis services as well as psychotherapy for adults, children, and adolescents.
“The provincial government sympathises with the bereaved and affected families and understands that the Life Esidimeni inquest was incredibly important for families to find closure and for accountability,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 07/11/2024 - 09:48