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Pretoria teenager Pieter Coetzé will fight for South Africa’s first medal at the World Aquatics Championships in Doha on Tuesday after powering into the 100m backstroke final. The 19-year-old won his morning heat in a time of 53.32 seconds to progress to the evening semifinals as the fastest qualifier. He then won his semifinal in …
Johannesburg, South Africa – Loadit, a pioneering truck rental and moving service, is redefining the industry standards with its exceptional customer service, efficient booking process, and comprehensive coverage in major South African cities. Celebrated for its customer-centric approach, Loadit has consistently received high praise from its clientele, as reflected in its impressive 4.9-star rating from …
Spokeperson Hangwani Mulaudzi and former Head of Risk at the National Lotteries Commission Marubini Ramatsekisa are both named in a dossier handed to prosecutors
Motshekga calls on everyone to participate in the 2024 SGB Elections
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has called on eligible stakeholders, parents, teachers, non-teaching staff, learners in high schools, and community members to participate and have their say in the upcoming 2024 School Governing Body (SGB) Elections.
Motshekga was speaking during the launch of the 2024 School Governing Body (SGB) Elections Campaign in Pretoria on Monday.
The actual SGB elections will be held from 1 - 31 March 2024 in all ordinary public schools. By law, the department is required to conduct elections for SGBs every three years.
“As we launch this campaign, I call upon each of you, parents, teachers, learners, and community members to join us in this crucial endeavour.
“Engage with the process, educate yourselves and others and most importantly, exercise your right to vote. Your involvement is not just a contribution but a testament to your commitment to the future of our nation's children.
“My call to action today is simple yet powerful: get involved. Whether you choose to stand for election or cast your vote, your contribution holds immense significance. It will not only impact the lives of our children but also shape the future of our nation,” Motshekga said.
She said that research has consistently shown that schools with active SGBs excel across various metrics, including academic performance, learner wellbeing, and community engagement.
She said the correlation between engaged SGBs and school success is undeniable. Schools with high SGB participation report an average 20% higher pass rate than those with lower engagement.
Additionally, the Minister said that incidents of vandalism and truancy decrease significantly in schools with active governing bodies.
“These are not just numbers; they are compelling evidence of the power of active participation. Our vision is for every school to harness this potential, translating active governance into tangible outcomes for our children.
“Therefore, our campaign, ‘Empower, Engage, Educate’, aims to catalyse a shift. With a multifaceted strategy leveraging both digital and traditional media, we intend to reach every corner of our society. From rural townships to bustling urban centres, our message is clear: your voice shapes the future,” she said.
Sharing information
Motshekga told the media briefing that the campaign will provide comprehensive resources on the roles and significance of SGBs, the election process, and how every individual can contribute.
Workshops, informational pamphlets, and an interactive website will serve as conduits for this essential knowledge.
Motshekga said there will be a dialogue to foster understanding. The campaign will initiate conversations across communities, creating platforms for questions, discussions and sharing ideas.
The Minister said these dialogues will bridge gaps, dispel myths and build a shared vision for schools.
She said this is a moment that not only reflects the department’s commitment to democratic values but also underscores the collective responsibility towards the future of basic education in South Africa.
Building stronger schools
By law, School Governing Bodies are the backbone of school communities. They ensure schools are not merely institutions of learning but beacons of hope, character, and community spirit.
“Their impact is profound and far-reaching, with roles encompassing financial management, policy formulation, and staff appointment.
“In the coming months, we embark on a collective journey to shape the future of our education system, brick by democratic brick.
“As we approach these elections, we are reminded of the significance of active participation. The vibrancy of our democracy is mirrored in the engagement of our school communities,” Motshekga said.
The Minister further acknowledged the stark reality of past participation rates, which have not matched the department’s aspirations.
Despite the undeniable importance of SGBs, she said the turnout has lingered at around the 40% mark. “This is not just a missed opportunity; it's a call to action.”
The Minister emphasised that SGBs serve as a vital link, fostering understanding and collaboration between schools and the communities they serve.
“As we celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2023, weathering turbulent waters yet emerging with hope, their success speaks volumes.
“In KwaZulu-Natal, where we witnessed a remarkable improvement in results, the unwavering support of SGBs played a pivotal role. This is a testament to the immense power of active and engaged school communities,” the Minister said.
Motshekga emphasised that the upcoming elections carry immense weight because they represent not just an exercise in democracy but an opportunity for parents, educators, and community members to join hands and contribute to improving schools.
“With this responsibility comes a clarion call: it's time to raise our voices and shape the education we envision for our children. Transparency and inclusivity are our guiding principles to ensure every voice is heard.
“The Department of Basic Education stands firmly committed to conducting these elections with unwavering integrity,” she said.
Throughout this month, the Department of Basic Education will share detailed information on the electoral process, nomination procedures, and critical dates.
The department is committed to ensuring that these elections are a model of democracy and accountability. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 12:50
Dalan Holton, a 49-year-old director at Debella Finance from Morningside, Sandton, is embarking on an extraordinary journey as he approaches his 50th birthday on March 1, 2024. Unlike the typical ‘midlife crisis,’ Dalan jokes, which might lead one to indulge in luxury or travel, he has set his sights on a challenge that is as …
Government activities for the week 12 to 16 February 2024
On Monday, 12 February, the Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga will launch the 2024 SGB Elections Campaign in Pretoria.
On Monday, 12 February, Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille will address the Africa Air Expo at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, Western Cape.
Also, on Monday leading though till Wednesday (12-14 February), the Agricultural Research Council in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development will host their first-ever joint annual conference at the ARC-Vegetable, Industrial and Industrial Medicinal Plants.
From Sunday 11 February up until Sunday, 18 February, Sport, Arts and Culture as well as the South African Football Association will host the Football for Humanity international showpiece at the Athlone stadium.
On Tuesday, 13 February, the Department of Health will observe the National Epilepsy Week. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 13:00
The protest follows a summit hosted by Mining Affected Communities United in Action
Last weekend, 3 February, saw 312 athletes competing in 400 items in hot and humid conditions at the Westbourne Oval. The Track & Field season opened in September, so this was the sixth competitive League event of the 2023/2024 season but the second event this year. League 6 showcased a number of outstanding athletes who …
Pretoria, South Africa – In a digital age where online presence is paramount, understanding the intricate mechanisms of search engines has become more crucial than ever for business owners. Click Results, a leading digital marketing firm based in Pretoria, South Africa, unveils valuable insights into the functionality of search engines and the importance of Search …
Hearing by the Judicial Conduct Tribunal into possible gross misconduct by the judge continues
About 200 people attended a summit hosted by Mining Affected Communities United in Action in Pretoria
The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Pretoria commemorated the 76th Anniversary of the Independence of Sri Lanka with the members of the Sri Lankan community and other well-wishers at the High Commission premises on 04 February 2024. Approximately 200 Sri Lankans in South Africa, as well as in other accredited countries, including Botswana and Mozambique along with South African friends of Sri Lanka participated in the event.
According to the participants and Sri Lanka community members, this year marked the highest participation in the Independence Day celebrations organized by the High Commission in recent history. Additionally, the year 2024 is significant in bilateral relations as the two countries celebrate 30th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year.
The event commenced with the singing of the Sri Lankan National Anthem followed by the National Anthem of the Republic of South Africa. A two-minute silence was observed in respect of those who sacrificed their lives for the motherland. Keeping in line with the tradition, a traditional oil lamp was lit by the children and young Sri Lankans present at the event with other distinguished guests.
Multi-faith religious observances were conducted by Most Ven. Nikorn O-In from the Johannesburg Buddhist Temple, Guru Ratnasabapathy Vengatraman of the Adhi Lingeswarar Hindu Temple in Benoni, Sheikh Anver Jhetam, a member of Jamiatul Ulama, South Africa, and Pastor Jack Mmulutsi of the Christian Revival Church, Johannesburg invoking blessings on Sri Lanka.
Following the welcome address by the High Commission, the Independence Day messages from President Ranil Wickremesinghe and President of the Republic of South Africa Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa were read out by the Mission staff.
All attendees were served with traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and Ceylon Tea.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Sri Lanka.
The judge is before the Judicial Conduct Tribunal to answer charges of gross misconduct
Dirco dismisses Nigerian High Commission's 'warning' ahead of Afcon semi-final
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has assured that South Africa does not pose any danger to Nigerian citizens, as the two countries are set to face each other in the semi-final match of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) tonight.
This assurance follows a safety advisory issued by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria on Tuesday, for its citizens residing in South Africa.
“The attention of the Nigerian High Commission Pretoria has been drawn to potentially inflammatory online comments made by a section of South African citizens against Nigeria living in the host country, largely influenced by the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations Bafana Bafana [semi-final] on Wednesday,” their statement read.
The commission has advised citizens to be cautious of where they watch the match, particularly in public places, and to avoid loud, riotous or provocative celebrations if Nigerians win the match, both before and after the game.
However, the Dirco has since described the commission’s advisory as “unfortunate”.
“The advisory is regrettable because it seems to create alarm and unnecessary tension between the citizens of South Africa and Nigerians living in or visiting South Africa,” the department said.
“The South African national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, has played against their Nigerian counterparts, the Super Eagles, on many occasions, and there has been no history of soccer hooliganism among South Africans associated with the outcome of such encounters.”
The department has since called on the diplomatic representatives to approach the department to address any concerns about diplomatic matters.
“We are confident that the sports-loving nation of South Africa poses no threat to Nigerian citizens, and we do not agree with the apprehension expressed by the High Commission.”
Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana is said to be confident ahead of the Afcon semi-final clash against the Super Eagles.
“Yes, we know and understand who we are up against. We know the might of this team and that their players play all over Europe. We also know that last time in an Afcon what the result was, but this time it’s different. It’s different players, a different team and a different Afcon. Anything is possible,” the Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, was quoted saying on Tuesday.
The South African Football Association (Safa), also cited captain and goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, who was the man of the match in the quarter-final clash against Cape Verde.
Williams made history after saving four penalties out of the five penalties in a shootout – something that has never been achieved at the Africa Cup before.
“After seeing the players run for about 130 minutes non-stop, it was my turn to stand up and do my part. I’m happy it went our way but ultimately this is a team sport. I don’t like to take credit because they fought just as hard. So, reaching the semi-finals here means we did it together,” he said.
Kick off is at 19:00 this evening. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 09:14
The Basketball Africa League (BAL), FIBA Africa and Hennessy, the world-renowned cognac brand and the Official Spirit of the BAL, will host a networking event, “BAL IN” on Feb. 9 at the FIBA Regional Office in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire.
The “BAL IN” experience will be an opportunity for sports lovers, basketball fans and cognac enthusiasts to live an exciting experience from the two iconic brands. BAL and Hennessy share common values of bringing people together, creating unforgettable experiences and celebrating the creativity and culture on the continent. As part of the event, BAL, FIBA Africa and Hennessy will celebrate Africa's cultural resonance across basketball, fashion, music, art, and design through tasting, mixology and cultural experiences.
The “BAL IN” experience is part of the league's long-term strategy to connect and engage with fans across the continent and beyond including the African Diaspora. Previous networking events have been held in Accra, Ghana; Berlin, Germany; Lagos, Nigeria; Paris, France and Salt Lake City, U.S.
“We are super excited to see the momentum building across Africa and around the world, especially among the African Diaspora,” said BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall. “This “BAL IN” event in Abidjan celebrates African sports industry excellence, provides networking opportunities for industry stakeholders, in line with the BAL's commitment to being a catalyst for the growth of a robust African sports, entertainment and lifestyle ecosystem.”
“As the Official Spirit of the NBA and the BAL, Hennessy is looking forward to another exciting season, especially with the addition of South Africa to the host markets this year. We invite fans to enjoy both the games hosted across the continent and the cultural playground that's celebrated beyond the court,” said General Manager Southern Africa and Marketing Director Africa Middle East at Moët Hennessy David White.
The expanded fourth season of the BAL will tip off on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa. The 2024 BAL season will feature the top 12 club teams from 12 African countries playing a record 48 games in Pretoria; Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; and Kigali, Rwanda over four months, marking the first BAL games in South Africa and the first time the league will play games in four different countries. Fans can register their interest in tickets to games in all four markets at BAL.NBA.com.
During the 2024 BAL season, the 12 teams will be divided into three conferences of four teams each. Each conference will play a 12-game group phase during which each team will face the other three teams in its conference twice. The inaugural Kalahari Conference group phase will take place from Saturday, March 9 – Sunday, March 17 at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria. The Nile Conference group phase will take place from Friday, April 19 – Saturday, April 27 at Hassan Mostafa Indoor Sports Complex in Cairo. The Sahara Conference group phase will take place from Saturday, May 4 – Sunday, May 12 at the Dakar Arena in Dakar. The top two teams from each conference and the top two third-place teams from across the three conferences will travel to Kigali for four seeding games followed by an eight-game, single-elimination Playoffs and Finals from Friday, May 24 – Saturday, June 1 at BK Arena.
The 12 BAL teams, conferences, game schedule and additional information about the 2024 BAL season will be announced in the coming weeks.
BAL Season 4 announcement video (Credit: Basketball Africa League) (https://apo-opa.co/3SrLphb)
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).
Prof Tladi sworn in as SA's first permanent ICJ judge
Professor Dire Tladi has been sworn in as the first-ever South African judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The ICJ held a public sitting on Tuesday morning, where Tladi and three other Excellencies were officially sworn in after being elected by the United Nations General Assembly and Security Council on 9 November 2023.
The other new members of the court include Bogdan-Lucian Aurescu from Romania, Sarah Hull Cleveland from the United States and Juan Manuel Gómez Robledo Verduzco from Mexico
During the sitting, the four judges each solemnly declared Article 20 of the Statute of the Court.
The declaration, according to the ICJ, stipulates that members shall, before taking up their duties, make a solemn declaration in open court that they will exercise their powers impartially and conscientiously.
The new members’ nine-year terms of office will begin on the same day.
Last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa described Tladi’s election as an outstanding personal achievement that the nation shares with great pride.
“We appreciate the confidence expressed by the United Nations in Prof Tladi’s capabilities. He becomes the newest member of a fraternity of South Africans globally who are in positions of service to the international community and making important contributions to the better world we seek to build.
“We wish Prof Tladi well as he prepares to contribute to the Court and its jurisprudence from the Palace of Peace in The Hague, Netherlands,” the President said then.
The ICJ is the principal judicial organ of the UN and one of the six principal bodies of the intergovernmental organisation.
The court’s role is to settle, per international law, legal disputes submitted to it by states and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorised UN organs and specialised agencies.
South Africans have become familiar with the top UN court after the country approached it to garner not only a ceasefire of Israel’s military barrage of Palestine but also to ask the court to find the Israeli government guilty of committing acts of genocide.
The ICJ found that it was “plausible” that Israel committed acts which violated the Genocide Convention.
The court in The Hague ordered Israel to, amongst others, take all measures within its power “to prevent and punish the direct and public incitement to commit genocide” and to immediately ensure that Palestinians have access to basic services and humanitarian assistance.
The Professor is a leading international law scholar whose accomplishments span different areas of the field, including academic, government service, diplomatic and practice.
On his appointment as a judge of the ICJ, he was the University of Pretoria professor of international law and Future Africa's Research Chair in Global Equity in Africa.
Speaking to the university last year, he said he was experiencing a mix of different emotions.
“I am filled with mixed emotions – excitement, elation and a touch of nervousness. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude because so many people played a role in this journey.
“The entire experience has been humbling, especially navigating through the challenges of an intense campaign, and juggling various responsibilities over the past few months. The announcement and the tense process have undoubtedly taken a toll, but I'm absolutely ecstatic and profoundly humbled by the experience,” the Professor added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 02/06/2024 - 13:35
Pretoria, South Africa – 05 February 2024: Connected convenience is the hallmark of every trip in the Discovery Sport – the compact family SUV that offers the versatility to head out on family adventures at a moment’s notice. Our award-winning Pivi Pro1 infotainment has an elegant floating 11.4-inch touchscreen and Software Over The Air2 to …
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Government leaders take stock of sixth administration
With the term of the sixth administration coming to an end, government leaders are discussing the implementation and progress of the priorities that it set to achieve at the beginning of its term.
“This is the final Cabinet Lekgotla for the term of the sixth administration. It will look at the work done on the Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is a government programme that sets priorities that we had to implement in this administration,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday in Pretoria.
The MTSF 2019-2024 is both a five-year implementation plan and an integrated monitoring framework, which focuses on the seven priorities and related interventions of the sixth administration of government, and the integrated monitoring framework focuses on monitoring outcomes, indicators and targets towards the achievement of the priorities.
The priorities of the MTSF include building a capable, ethical and developmental state; economic transformation and job creation; education, skills and health and consolidating the social wage through reliable and quality basic services.
It further prioritises spatial integration, human settlements and local government, social cohesion and safe communities as well as a better Africa and world.
“We are also going to look at the progress that we have made in implementing the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP) and the progress we are making in preparing for the National Health Insurance (NHI).
“Given the lessons we have learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, we think it is a priority that it must be signed during this period so that the full implementation can be taken in the seventh administration. This is why we are looking at the progress of its implementation,” the Minister said.
Work that has been done to deal with load shedding will also be discussed.
“Due to the challenges in the freight and logistics, we are going to look at that in line with the work that we have done with the ERRP. We will also look at crime because we can’t rebuild the economy if we are not dealing with the crime,” the Minister said.
She said the meeting would assess the impact of crime in terms of the vandalism of critical infrastructure whether it be electricity or the freight and logistics sector and any other infrastructure.
Ntshavheni was addressing members of the media on the sidelines of the Cabinet Lekgotla, which has been convened by President Cyril Ramaphosa from 1-2 February 2024.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, Directors-General and the leadership of the South African Local Government Association are in attendance.
The outcome of the meeting will chart a way forward for the year to be announced by the President during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) taking place on Thursday, 8 February 2024, at 7pm.
“We will also discuss the safety of South Africans and critical to that is gender- based violence and femicide (GBVF). We will look at the progress we are making to address GBVF and whether we are succeeding with the whole of society approach.
“We are also looking at the progress that has been made in dealing with corruption in terms of putting together the Anti-Corruption Advisory Council (NACAC) and the work that is being done to support the establishment of the council.
“We are looking at the integrated work that is be done to address with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Fusion Centre,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 13:51
Nzimande pays tribute to Professor Mokgokong
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has hailed the late Professor Mochichi Samuel Mokgokong, as one of our country’s most decorated academics and scholars.
Nzimande joined the nation and the academic fraternity in mourning the passing of Mokgokong, who passed away last week following a battle with cancer.
Mokgokong was well known for heading the team responsible for separations of craniopagus conjoined twins and has trained and mentored more than 20 neurosurgeons.
Nzimande highlighted that Mokgokong has a long and distinguished academic career in the medical field, which has seen him form part of some of the most pioneering surgical teams.
Some of the positions Mokgokong held in his illustrious career include Professor Emeritus of the University of Pretoria, Head of Tembisa Hospital’s Adult Intensive Care and High Care Units; Professor, Chief Specialist, and Head of the Neurosurgery Department at the University of Pretoria’s Steve Biko Academic Hospital.
Paying tribute to the life of South Africa's first black neurosurgeon, Nzimande said, owing to his commitment to research excellence and outstanding academic leadership, Mokgokong was honoured with a number of national and international awards.
“As part of his commitment to transformation in the medical field, he also proudly assumed the role of an activist academic and never missed an opportunity to encourage young black people to enter the medical field.
“The passing of Professor Mokgokong constitutes an incalculable loss to our post school education and training sector, and I believe we have an obligation to uphold his legacy of research excellence and visionary leadership,” Nzimande said.
The Minister has, on behalf of the department conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Mokgokong’s family, friends, and colleagues. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 12:12
Judge says there are “reasonable grounds” to believe the property Arthur Mafokate bought was from the proceeds of “unlawful activities”
All systems go for second voter registration weekend
Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo says the Electoral Commission is ready to welcome eligible South Africans at the 23 303 registration stations across the country this weekend - to register or check their details ahead of the national elections.
This weekend will be the second Voter Registration Weekend after the weekend of 18 - 19 November 2023.
“The Electoral Commission will hold the second voter registration weekend on 3 and 4 February 2024 in preparation for the general elections of the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures,” Mamabolo said, addressing the media in Pretoria earlier today.
“We further urge eligible voters to visit the registration stations, to inspect, or update their registration details or to do so online.”
He urged all South Africans to make use of the coming weekend to register for the elections.
Registration weekends remain the most accessible modality of registration as affirmed by the yield from the first registration weekend.
Registration stations will be open from 08h00 and close on 17h00 on both days. Over 69 718 staff members have been recruited and trained for the voter registration weekend.
“The recruitment criteria for electoral staff was conceived in consultation with the national political liaison committee.
“The names of trained staff have also been shared with the municipal political liaison committees to facilitate objections against those staff members that are deemed unsuitable. Out of the appointed staff, 53 028 are female and 16 690 are male.
“In addition, 35 640 registration staff are under the age of 35, whilst 26 475 are between the ages 36 and 50. The balance of 7 603 are people who are 51 years old and above. Crucially, 50 213 of the total staff complement are unemployed persons,” Mamabolo said.
The commission’s collective goal, he said, is to ensure that every one of the eligible voters in South Africa is registered to vote in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
“Ahead of the second voter registration weekend, we remind voters of the general rule in elections. That is, a person votes at a voting station where they are registered.
“The only exception to the general rule is that a voter may vote outside of the voting district of registration only if they have first notified the commission by the date which will be regulated by the Election Timetable.
“The need for this prior notification is new and comes about as a result of the changes to the law. Details of the modalities of this notification will be outlined after the registration process,” he said.
Mamabolo explained that the success of the first Registration Weekend was, in the main, because of the efficiencies brought by the Voter Management Devices (VMD’s).
“The VMD is the mainstay technology for the delivery of the registration process. Once again, three business applications will be running on the VMDs during this weekend,” he said.
The international segment of the voters’ roll for out of country registrations stood at approximately 18 000 South Africans ahead of the registration weekend out of the country.
“Following the registration weekend for out of country citizens, this segment of the roll now stands at 29 318 voters. Out of country registrations can still continue via the online registration process that the Commission has developed and which is accessible through the Commission’s website,” Mamabolo said.
He said as of today, voters can also check their registration status and voting station details via the IEC's Whatsapp Chatbot on 0600 88 0000. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 01/31/2024 - 15:21