MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for Release

Release

Government moves to reclaim hijacked buildings

Location: News

Government moves to reclaim hijacked buildings

Government is working with provinces and metros to reclaim buildings that have been hijacked in the city centres and repurpose them for public use.

President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement when he was delivering his State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday evening.

To tackle inequality, he said there was a need to undo apartheid spatial planning, which has “scarred our cities and forced many people to live far from areas of work and opportunity”.

While acknowledging the millions of housing opportunities which have been delivered and have provided safety and dignity to the poor households since 1994, the President said the practice of building housing developments on the periphery of urban centres, has perpetuated inequality and urban sprawl.

Going forward, government is to build more housing in the city centres and closer to work and business opportunities.

The President said government was currently redesigning the housing subsidies and directing more funding towards programmes that enable people to buy or rent a home in an area of their choice.

Government will also release more underutilised state properties for affordable housing development.

“We are working with provinces and metros to reclaim buildings that have been hijacked in the city centres and repurpose them for public use. We will provide 300 000 serviced stands to qualifying beneficiaries to enable housing development in well-planned, connected communities along key development corridor.

“We will clear the backlog of title deeds for subsidised housing, turning homes into household assets. We will review land use, building and other regulations to enable low-cost property development, including backyard housing,” the President said.

This, he said, represents a fundamental rethink of how the state delivers housing at scale while turning cities into engines of growth and opportunity. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 02/06/2025 - 22:49

46 views
Read moreGovernment moves to reclaim hijacked buildings

President to deliver first SONA of the seventh administration 

Location: News

President to deliver first SONA of the seventh administration 

In just a few hours, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA) which will provide a country roadmap charting the way forward for the country in what one could call a mixed bag of domestic and global circumstances.

Thursday night will mark the first SONA to be delivered under the seventh administration’s Government of National Unity (GNU) following the outcomes of the historic 29 May 2024 elections.

And while the faces of government Ministers has changed with every administration, the SONA, held every year since the dawn of democratic South Africa in 1994, continues to hold strong and is a reflection of democracy in action, no matter who is in the driver’s seat of the sitting government of the day.

The State of the Nation Address (SONA) is an important fixture in the nation’s journey forward and provides the President with an opportunity to hold perhaps the year’s “biggest family meeting,” outlining the key plans and programmes of the year ahead. The address also affords the President the chance to look into the rearview mirror to assess the journey traversed to date.

As the President fine-tunes his notes before delivering the speech in an environment that changes by the second, government is cognisant that in every family unit, every member has a role to play in ensuring and preserving the family name and that it has to do so by ensuring the provision of services and responding to challenges facing the South African family.

This as government continues to respond to the challenges of poverty, inequality, unemployment and illegal mining among others.
“As much as we have made progress, we have to do much more to overcome the challenges that confront our nation. We need to work with urgency and purpose to grow an inclusive economy and create jobs,” the President said in his New Year’s Eve message to the nation in December 2024.

In that address, he called on the nation to look at the year 2025 with hope.

“As a people, our unity, determination and resilience has seen us through hard times. Just as this has been a year of great change, we look to the next year with great hope,” he said at the time.

And while our South African family is by no means perfect, there are valid reasons not to be glum about the future.

G20

At tomorrow night’s joint sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament, the President is expected to speak on the country’s hosting of the Group of 20 (G20) Summit in November, making the country the first do so on the African continent. This as the nation assumed the Presidency of the grouping on 1 December 2024 under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”.

Having taken over the baton from Brazil, South Africa's G20 Presidency is the fourth consecutive emerging market Presidency and follows the admission of the African Union (AU) as the second permanent African member. 

The G20 was established to tackle pressing global economic and financial issues. Together, G20 members account for around 85% of global GDP and 75% of international trade. The hosting of the Summit is expected to help accelerate the performance of the economy.

The economy

President Ramaphosa is likely to also reflect on the performance of the economy in an environment where the rising cost of living has many on edge. However, the prospects of South Africa’s purse strings are predicted to improve with the country in 2024 having achieved its first primary budget surplus in 15 years.

A recent economic and financial assessment by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) showed that the country’s economic growth prospects are poised to recover in 2025 following a lacklustre economic performance for the past two years.

Last month, the fund published the findings of its Article IV Consultation with South Africa, which was held in November 2024. 
According to the IMF, the real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) output growth is expected to accelerate from an estimated 0.8 % in 2024 to 1.5 % in 2025 driven by improved electricity generation, monetary policy easing, and a return of investor and consumer confidence post the elections.

The IMF acknowledged progress in banking-resolution and safety-net reforms and praised macro-prudential measures to bolster capital buffers. However, it also raised concerns on the rising public debt and the challenges South Africa faces to meet climate goals.

The ongoing electricity and logistics reforms aimed at alleviating critical supply constraints were also welcomed. National Treasury noted that the fund’s concerns are aligned with government’s response to addressing immediate and long-term economic challenges.

“The National Treasury is committed to implementing reforms that will enhance inclusive economic growth, achieve a sustainable public debt level, further repair and strengthen network industries, and strengthen state capacity to support economic activity.”
In its 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) in October, Treasury estimated economic growth to increase from 1.1 % in 2024 to 1.7% in 2025.

It attributed the gains in the economy to household consumption gradually increasing, supported by rising purchasing power, employment recovery and wealth gains.

The current focus of South Africa’s reform agenda includes the stabilisation of the electricity grid, enhancing the efficacy of freight and ports operations, implementing e-Visas, as well as prioritising the advancement of targeted industries to enhance the business climate and promoting equitable growth. 

Legislation

In the past year, government has passed laws that aim to improve lives as well as respond to pressing challenges.

In January this year, the President signed into law the Expropriation Bill, which sets out how organs of State may expropriate land in the public interest for varied reasons.  
The new legislation repeals the pre-democratic Expropriation Act of 1975, aligns expropriation processes with the Constitution and marks the culmination of a five-year process of public consultation and Parliamentary deliberation. 

“The Bill assented to by President Ramaphosa outlines how expropriation can be done and on what basis. This law will assist all organs of State - local, provincial and national authorities - to expropriate land in the public interest for varied reasons,” the Presidency said. 

Section 25 of the Constitution recognises expropriation as an essential mechanism for the state to acquire someone’s property for a public purpose or in the public interest, subject to just and equitable compensation being paid.

The law has drawn criticism from the United States of America with South Africa saying it looks “forward to engaging” with US President Donald Trump’s administration on bilateral relations and other issues.

The Presidency said the legislation is not a confiscation instrument.

“The recently adopted Expropriation Act is not a confiscation instrument, but a constitutionally mandated legal process that ensures public access to land in an equitable and just manner as guided by the constitution. 
“South Africa, like the United States of America and other countries, has always had expropriation laws that balance the need for public usage of land and the protection of rights of property owners."

Among other laws passed is the Employment Equity Amendment Act, which is aimed at reducing the regulatory burden for small employers to allow them to focus on job creation, which came into effect on 1 January 2025.  

President Ramaphosa signed last year, the proclamation notice giving effect to the start date of implementation of the Employment Equity (EE) Amendment Act, No. 4 of 2022. 

In terms of the notice gazetted on 28 November 2024, small businesses that employ less than 50 employees are no longer bound to comply with Chapter III of the Employment Equity Act, 1998 (EEA) - for example in relation to the submission of their EE reports starting from the 2025 EE Reporting period. 

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth said the regulatory flexibility will enable small businesses to now focus on growing their businesses and create jobs.

In addition, in December, the President announced his intention to sign a Presidential Proclamation that will bring the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act into operation, immediately. 

The BELA Bill was passed by the 6th democratic Parliament on 26 October 2023 after which the first citizen assented to the Bill on 13 September 2024.

President Ramaphosa said the BELA Act is vital to the transformation of the country’s education system and is an important part of ongoing efforts to build an education system that is more effective and more equitable in line with the precepts of the Constitution.

The Act amends sections of the South African Schools Act of 1996 (SASA) and the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 (EEA) to account for developments in the education landscape since the enactment of the original legislation.

Community safety 

In a move to ensure the safety of citizens, the South African Police Service (SAPS) trained and deployed over 20 000 new constables in various units across the country in the past three years.

In addition, operations like Operation Shanela continues to make strides since its inception in May 2023. Shanela consists of regular stop and searches, roadblocks, high visibility patrols and the tracing of wanted suspects.
Operation Vala Umgodi which is aimed at combating illegal mining also continues to make strides.

At the release of the Quarterly Crime Statistics in November 2024, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu announced that the SAPS had recorded a downward trend in some categories of crime, including murder, robbery and carjacking.

From 1 July to 30 September 2024, the 17 community-reported serious crimes showed an overall decline of 5.1%. Specifically, contact crime decreased by 3%, property-related crime saw a reduction of 9.9%, and other serious crime decreased by 3.4%. 

“Focusing on contact crime, the statistics indicate that murder decreased by 5.8%, sexual offenses by 2.5%, and robbery with aggravating circumstances by 8.8%. Additionally, rape decreased by 3.1%, while robbery at residential premises and non-residential premises decreased by 1.3% and 21.1%, respectively,” he said at the time.

Load shedding 

While the country suffered a bout of Stage 3 load shedding recently, November 2024 marked the longest stretch of no-load shedding in five years.

Eskom marked the longest stretch of uninterrupted power supply in five years, with load shedding suspended for more than 240 consecutive days at the time which was followed by 300 days of no-load shedding on 21 January 2025.

The power utility’s performance has been on a steady upward trajectory since the implementation of the Energy Action Plan introduced by President Ramaphosa in July 2022, as well as the implementation of the power utility’s own Generation Recovery Plan.

ICJ case

South Africa in 2024 continued its work on the application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in Gaza (South Africa v. Israel) matter.

This as it said that it had no regrets about becoming the first country to file a lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to end its “deadly and relentless genocidal bombardment” of Gaza.  

In October 2024, it formally filed its Memorial to the International Court of Justice (ICJ)  marking a significant step in the ongoing legal action, which aims to hold Israel accountable under international law.

The action taken by South Africa since December 2023, culminating in the filing of the Memorial, has generated overwhelming national and international interest. 

In his Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) in July last year, the President appealed to the larger South African family to behave as weaver birds.

“We would like all of us as South Africans to behave like ‘weaver birds’. Weavers are among the most gregarious birds in that they build complex structures together and cooperate. 

"Despite all the challenges, despite our differences, despite all the headwinds, as South Africans we are called upon to remain firmly committed to pursue the path of cooperation, growth and inclusion,” he said at the time.

As the larger South African family, let us gather around our television and radio sets to hear what the President has to say.
The SONA will get underway at 7pm on Thursday, 6 February 2025. -SAnews.gov.za 
 

Neo
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 09:15

44 views
Read morePresident to deliver first SONA of the seventh administration 

SONA 2025: Working together to accelerate development

Location: News

SONA 2025: Working together to accelerate development

By Michael Currin

South Africa’s time has arrived! That’s the sentiment that reverberated in Davos during the World Economic Forum (WEF) as our nation shared with global leaders the many advances we have had over the last year.

President Cyril Ramaphosa who led South Africa’s delegation to the forum showcased our country’s investment potential and set the stage for critical discussions at the G20 Summit in November.

South Africa used the occasion to propel its G20 Presidency priorities into the international spotlight, advocating for a more inclusive and sustainable approach to global challenges. We also focused on the vital need for global collaboration to tackle economic recovery and startling disparities between rich and poor nations.

As South Africans we cannot but gleam with pride as we continue to punch above our weight in the league of nations and stun the world as we had done in 1994 through a reconciliation process and peaceful transition when many naysayers had counted us out.

We believe that our nation is ideal to advance global cooperation as we have succeeded in uniting ten political parties to form a Government of National Unity which brought stability and inclusive governance to our nation.

Over the course of our G20 Presidency, our country will foster collaboration among G20 members and wider society to address pressing global issues and find sustainable solutions that prioritise the wellbeing of all people. Our approach has therefore inspired our G20 Presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”.

As we work together with G20 members and global organisations, we will seek innovative solutions to global challenges, such as poverty and unemployment, advocating for investment in the global South, and ensuring that no one is left behind. 
On the home front, the unity government has committed to driving inclusive economic growth and job creation, reducing poverty, tackling the high cost of living as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental state.

On Thursday the 6th of February 2025, South Africans can look forward to hearing from His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa how we as a nation can harness that indominable national spirit of ours as the President outlines the government’s vision and plans for the year ahead.  This will be during the first State of the Nation Address, (SoNA) of the 7th democratic administration.  

SoNA 2025 is more than just a speech, it serves as a rallying call for our nation to work together and draws us in a common front to address our country’s challenges. It is an invitation for all South Africans to be part of shaping the future of our nation.  

The State of the Nation follows the Opening of Parliament in July last year where the President detailed the key priorities of the 7th Administration. The 2025 SoNA will advance our national priorities by expanding on key programmes such as the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the Energy Action Plan and Infrastructure Investment Plan. These programmes are central to the country’s efforts to rebuild the economy and create a more sustainable and inclusive future.

Furthermore, this year’s SoNA is particularly significant as it coincides with the conclusion of our year-long commemoration of 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy, which has allowed us to reflect on how far we have come in building a society that works for all citizens.

The SoNA is an integral part of our participatory democracy and ensures that the work of government is transparent and can be held accountable by active citizens who are the bedrock of a robust democracy.

As the President addresses the nation on 6 February at 19:00, we call on all South Africans to tune in via television, radio, and across government’s various social media platforms. This is an opportunity for all citizens to join this national milestone and familiarise themselves with the contents of the speech.

By engaging with the speech, we can partner with government to accelerate our nation’s development. Moreover, as citizens we have a duty to scrutinise the work of our elected representatives and to hold them accountable.

In the days that follow the SoNA, Members of Parliament, who represent the diverse voices of South Africans, will actively engage key elements of the speech and offer their own perspectives. This debate is an essential part of our democratic process, ensuring that the voice of the people, through their elected representatives in Parliament are heard. It is a reminder that democracy is a collective effort.

South Africans are encouraged to save the date of 6 February 2025 and be part of this important national event. Let’s all be part of the solution and work together to build a stronger and better South Africa.

*Michael Currin is the Deputy Director-General of Intergovernmental Coordination and Stakeholder Management at GCIS.

Janine
Mon, 02/03/2025 - 11:24

28 views
Read moreSONA 2025: Working together to accelerate development

Support being given to families of 13 fallen soldiers in Eastern DRC

Location: News

Support being given to families of 13 fallen soldiers in Eastern DRC

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sorrow and condolences, following the recent escalation of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which resulted in the loss of 13 South African soldiers. 

“On behalf of the government and the people of our country, I express our sincerest condolences to their families, their loved ones and colleagues. We bow our heads in honour of their heroic and gallant fight for peace. We honour and mourn them,” President Ramaphosa said on Wednesday.

The fighting in the eastern DRC intensified due to escalations by the rebel group M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) militia engaging the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC), leading to direct attacks on peacekeepers from the SADC (Southern African Development Community) Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC). 

The SAMIDRC is a regional peacekeeping initiative launched on December 15, 2023, to assist the DRC government in restoring peace and security in the eastern regions of the country. This deployment was approved during an Extraordinary SADC Summit held in Windhoek, Namibia, on May 8, 2023, as a response to escalating conflicts and instability caused by the resurgence of armed groups in the area. 

According to a press release issued by SADC in January last year, SAMIDRC comprises military contingents from Malawi, South Africa, and Tanzania, working in collaboration with the Congolese Army, FARDC, to combat and eradicate armed groups operating in eastern DRC.

President Ramaphosa assured that all necessary support is being provided to the families of both the deceased and injured soldiers. The repatriation process for the remains of the fallen soldiers is currently underway. 

The attacks on peacekeepers also resulted in the deaths of SAMIDRC members from other troop-contributing countries, namely, Malawi and Tanzania, as well as members of the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) brigade. 

“We honour all the lives that were lost and pass our condolences to their families, governments and citizens. The situation in Goma and Sake, where our troops and their counterparts are stationed, remains very tense, volatile and unpredictable,” the President said. 

The President said that the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, alongside the Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), General Rudzani Maphwanya, and SAMIDRC Force Commander, Major General Monwabisi Dyakopu, are working to ensure that the SAMIDRC forces remain well equipped and sufficiently supported during this critical mission.

Despite this devastating loss, the SANDF has reiterated its unwavering commitment to fulfilling its peacekeeping mandate under MONUSCO and SAMIDRC. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 14:31

352 views
Read moreSupport being given to families of 13 fallen soldiers in Eastern DRC

’27 for Freedom’ run to honour Madiba

Location: News

'27 for Freedom' run to honour Madiba

The spirit of former President Nelson Mandela will come alive at the historic Drakenstein Correctional Centre on Saturday, 8 February, as the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) hosts the 27 for Freedom Race.

Drakenstein, formerly known as Victor Verster Prison, is where the world-renowned former Statesman took his first steps to freedom after 27 years of incarceration (having served 18 of those years on Robben Island). His release from prison after 27 years became an iconic moment etched in the hearts of all South Africans and the world.

8 February 2025 marks the 35th anniversary of Madiba's release from Victor Verster Prison. Drakenstein Correctional Services is hosting the 13th 27 for Freedom race to commemorate the historic event. Drakenstein Correctional Centre is situated outside Paarl on the R301 in the Western Cape. 

National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Thobakgale, said the race is a reminder of the painful history that South Africa has had to overcome.

“The 27 for Freedom race is more than just a sporting event, but a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom, and a call to embody the values of unity and perseverance that Madiba stood for. 

“I am deeply honoured to participate in this race, which connects us to our history and inspires future generations to continue building a better South Africa,” Thobakgale said on Tuesday.

The DCS said the 27 for Freedom race “offers something for everyone”, with participants able to choose from the:

  • 27km race for seasoned runners;
  • 10km race, and
  • 5km fun run/walk for families, friends, and individuals of all abilities.

“The race commemorates Madiba’s legacy and sacrifices, symbolised through the 27 kilometre route, representing his 27 years behind bars. 

“It is a race that not only pays tribute to his extraordinary journey but also promotes unity, fitness and community engagement,” the department said.

Register for the race on https://www.topevents.co.za/event/27-for-freedom-2025/.

The deadline for registrations is today, 29 January. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 09:22

129 views
Read more’27 for Freedom’ run to honour Madiba

Matric results queries should be directed to SACAI, says Umalusi

Location: News

Matric results queries should be directed to SACAI, says Umalusi

Umalusi has advised learners and parents to direct their queries regarding the assessment outcomes of the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exam to the South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI).

These queries include concerns relating to the costs of and timeliness for viewing, re-marking or re-checking of examination scripts, re-writing of examinations and other NSC exam-related processes.

Umalusi is the Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training in South Africa. It is responsible for ensuring that educational institutions, qualifications, and assessment processes within its scope meet acceptable quality standards.

SACAI is a private assessment body that operates under its own policies, which have built-in mechanisms for complaints to be lodged whenever a learner or parent is dissatisfied with assessment outcomes or procedural aspects of the outcomes.  

Following the approval for the release of results, Umalusi has been receiving a number of queries from learners and parents regarding the assessment outcomes of the 2024 SACAI NSC examinations. 

The queries are mainly about the discrepancies between the final marks and the marks achieved by the learners during the year.  

“The approval decision was arrived at after careful consideration of the evidence presented at the time. Such evidence was gathered by various role players at different stages of Umalusi’s quality assurance cycle,” Umalusi said on Monday. 

Umalusi has reiterated that the 2024 NSC exam, administered by the SACAI, was subjected to the following quality assurance processes:  

•    External moderation of question papers and site-based assessments or school based assessment (SBA) to ensure the maintenance of standards of assessment.
•    Audit of the system to conduct, administer and manage the examinations to determine the readiness of the whole system.
•    Monitoring of the writing of the examinations across sampled examination centres to determine the credibility of the examinations. 
•    Participation in marking guidelines standardisation meetings in selected subjects to ensure that the marking process is accurate and reliable.
•    Verification of quality of marking in sampled subjects to ensure accuracy and reliability.
•    Standardisation of examination marks to ensure comparability and consistency in learner performance across years.

“The abovementioned quality assurance processes were applied consistently across all the 24 subjects linked to the NSC examination administered and managed by the SACAI,” Umalusi said.

The principles are available on the website of Umalusi, as is the case with the other Umalusi quality assurance processes that are used in conjunction with standardisation principles.

For detailed information about the process of standardisation of SBA and external examination marks, the public can refer to the Umalusi presentation:
https://www.umalusi.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Standardisation-ofResults_Explained.pdf.

 “Since the NSC is assessed by three assessment bodies, namely the SACAI, IEB and Department of Basic Education (DBE), learners and parents are advised to make an informed decision in terms of which assessment body to register with for the NSC examinations.

“Concerning accreditation status of the SACAI, this body was granted full accreditation status by Umalusi with effect from 1 October 2022 to assess the General Education and Training Certificate: Adult Basic Education and Training (GETC: ABET) and NSC examinations. 

“The rationale behind accreditation of private education and training institutions and private assessment bodies is to ensure that they have the capacity to deliver and assess qualifications registered on the GFETQSF and are doing so to the expected standards and quality,” Umalusi said. - SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Mon, 01/27/2025 - 11:05

230 views
Read moreMatric results queries should be directed to SACAI, says Umalusi

Government activities for the week 27-31 January 2025

Location: News

Government activities for the week 27-31 January 2025

On Monday, 27 January, the South African Police Service (SAPS) remembers the sacrifices that men and women in blue have made and continue to make as they provide safety for all who live in South Africa.  The event to mark National Police Day, will take place at Kings Park Athletics Stadium, Durban.

On Tuesday, 28 January, Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), will release the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data.

On Wednesday, 29 January, no confirmed event.

On Thursday, 30 January, Stats SA will release Producer Price Index (PPI), December 2024 data.

Also on Thursday, Premier Alan Winde and Western Cape Education MEC, David Maynier will host the Western Cape National Senior Certificate 2024 Awards Ceremony at Leeuwenholf at the Premier’s residence.

Friday, 31 January, no confirmed event.  

 

 

Neo
Mon, 01/27/2025 - 11:25

91 views
Read moreGovernment activities for the week 27-31 January 2025

CPI increases in December

Location: News

CPI increases in December

Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) has recorded an increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), with data showing that inflation increased in December to 3%, from 2.9% in November 2024.

“At the end of each year, Statistics South Africa calculates the average inflation rate for the year. The average inflation for 2024 was 4.4%, down from the average of 6% in 2023,” Stats SA Chief Director, Patrick Kelly, said on Wednesday.

Inflation for food and non-alcoholic beverages ticked up to 2.5% from 2.3% in November.

Annual price increases for bread and cereal products was steady at 3.7%. Although prices dropped by 0.2% between November and December, a number of week based products showed monthly declines, including brown bread down 0.6%, macaroni 0.7% lower, instant noodles with a negative 2.2%, and cake flour with a 1.1% decrease.

The price index for meat softened by 0.4% in the 12 months to December, representing the lowest annual rate since May 2019 (-0.9%). Products that registered the largest annual declines included sausages (down 3.3%), pork (down 2.2%) and whole chicken (down 1.7%). Several products were more expensive, however, including beef extract (up 5.1%), bacon (up 4.8%) and ham (up 4.2%).

Hot beverages remains in the food and non-alcohol beverages category with the highest annual increase at 13.5%, up from November’s increase of 13.1%.

Instant coffee was 16.1% more expensive in December 2024 compared to December 2023.

“Housing rentals are measured every quarter. The annual rate for actual rentals was 2.8% in the fourth quarter of last year, down from 3.3% in the third quarter.

“Owners’ equivalent rent inflation decreased to 2.4% from 2.9% over the same period. These declines pulled an overall rate for housing and utilities category down to 4.4% from 4.7%,” Kelly said.

Vehicle inflation dropped steeply during 2024 after starting the year at 7.2% in January.

Used vehicles are on average cheaper than they were a year ago, recording an annual decline of 0.6% in December.

Fuel prices increased by 1.1% between November and December. However, fuel prices are 10.2% lower than they were in December 2023. 

“Inflation for restaurants and hotels dropped to 4.2% in December, from 5.9% in November. This is largely a result of hotel room rates dropping by 4.2% between November and December, pulling the annual change for hotels down to 1.9% in December compared to 7.6% in November,” Kelly said.

The CPI release contains results of the monthly Survey of Consumer (Retail) Prices. The purpose of the survey is to collect and provide information regarding changes in the overall level of prices of all goods and services bought by the average household. - SAnews.gov.za       

 

 

 

nosihle
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 11:46

45 views
Read moreCPI increases in December

Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

Location: News

Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

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

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

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

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

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

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

Concern over pedestrian fatalities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Interventions 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

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

29 views
Read moreRoad crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

Government-Business Partnership reaffirms commitment to economic growth

Location: News

Government-Business Partnership reaffirms commitment to economic growth

The Government-Business Partnership has set an ambitious agenda for 2025, reaffirming its commitment to driving reforms, economic growth, and job creation. 

On Thursday, President Cyril Ramaphosa met with ministers and senior business leaders to solidify the partnership’s pledge to significantly grow South Africa's economy.

For 2025, the focus is on accelerating crucial reforms, operational improvements, and key interventions in energy, transport and logistics, crime and corruption, and youth employment. 

Building on the achievements of Phase 1 of the partnership, including the significant reduction in load shedding, the partners highlighted other milestones such as the promulgation of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act (ERA) and the release of the Transnet Network Statement in December, as critical steps in driving economic transformation.

The successful full implementation of these interventions, alongside ongoing reforms through Operation Vulindlela, has the potential to lift Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth above 3%, which is vital to addressing unemployment. 

South Africa needs to attract the substantial investment needed to help drive more robust and inclusive economic growth. However, the partners acknowledged the need for accelerated efforts to deliver on their ambitious plans.

The partnership is underpinned by principles of exceptional governance, clear role delineation between government and business, and a results-driven approach. 

As the host of the G20 summit, and the B20, South Africa aims to showcase this partnership as a model for successful public-private collaboration. It serves as a case study for leveraging business expertise and resources to advance government policy in areas requiring transformative reforms to boost economic growth.

Looking ahead, the partnership aims to craft a more optimistic narrative for "SA Inc," attract substantial investments, and drive inclusive economic growth and job creation. 

The partners emphasised the importance of seizing this moment to achieve meaningful progress and deliver tangible outcomes for the nation.

“As we begin what promises to be a momentous year, there is much progress to build on. We know that to achieve a goal of 3% economic growth will require an extraordinary effort, not just from this partnership but from all stakeholders and all South Africans. 

“This means we have to remain focused and purpose-driven and accelerate implementation. Together we are moving ever closer to the promise of a thriving and inclusive economy that meets the needs of all our people,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 01/17/2025 - 09:35

51 views
Read moreGovernment-Business Partnership reaffirms commitment to economic growth

Department monitors Vaal Dam levels

Location: News

Department monitors Vaal Dam levels

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is closely monitoring the Vaal Dam after the dam’s water levels drastically increased from last week’s 24.3% to 46.2% this week.

According to the department’s real time data, the water levels have again significantly increased overnight to 50.53%.

Departmental spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa, said the dam has, for the past few months, been on a downward spiral with the department making plans to release water from the Sterkfontein Dam into the Vaal Dam, to augment its levels when it reached 18% in volume.

However, Mavasa said this will no longer be necessary, as the dam is rapidly rising. This is due to this week’s heavy rainfall experienced in Gauteng, and other provinces, including North West, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal.
She said the department is now clear of the risk of the dam dropping below its minimum operating level of 18%.

“The dam had experienced continuous decline over the past few months due to elevated temperatures which have led to increased evaporation losses, and the low inflows owing into the dam, due to lack of rainfall in the Vaal catchment.

“The current dam level is now plotting above 50% and there is a good inflow because of recent rainfall in the catchment. There is therefore no more a need for water release from Sterkfontein Dam to support Vaal Dam,” Mavasa said in a statement on Wednesday.

Mavasa said the rising of the dam levels has also boosted the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS) that provides water to Gauteng and key industries within the province that has shot up from 71.4% to 79.4% this week.

“Recent rainfall has significantly improved surface water storage levels in the country’s dams with 79.8% this week, a huge increase as compared to last week’s 74.5%. Although the heavy and disruptive rainfall has resulted in localised flooding in those provinces, it has also boosted their Water Supply Systems significantly,” Mavasa explained.

The Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces have also experienced the highest upsurge with 10.2%, respectively.

The dam levels in Mpumalanga have increased from 82.9% to 93.1% this week, while KwaZulu-Natal increased from 81.0% to 91.2%.

Limpopo has also increased from 73.2% to 82.6% this week, while North West rose from last week’s 64.7% to 72.5%, with Free State seeing a considerable increase from last week’s 68.5% to 72.6% this week.

Rainfall in parts of the provinces has exceeded 150 millimetres (mm), while parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu Natal received more than 200 mm.

“There is an expectation of isolated to scattered rainfall over central and eastern areas of the country, particularly in [the] Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces this week, as a result, surface water storage in these areas is expected to improve further next week.

“However, the Department of Water and Sanitation would like to caution the residents in those provinces to be careful during the heavy rains, and urge residents to avoid water bodies, particularly when the rain can be disruptive, “ Mavasa said.

She also urged the public to stay away from rivers, lakes and dams, especially in the low-lying areas.

“Pedestrians should avoid crossing bridges, and motorists should also refrain from driving through flooded areas, even though the water seems to be shallow. Water can be deadly during the floods and should not at all be underestimated. Let us all keep safe and stay indoors, if possible.”

While the surface water storage capacity has improved in the majority of the country’s dams in most provinces, the department reiterated its call on citizens to continue to use water sparingly. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 10:04

26 views
Read moreDepartment monitors Vaal Dam levels

Top matriculant Rayyan Ebrahim humbled by his achievement

Location: News

Top matriculant Rayyan Ebrahim humbled by his achievement

Top academic achiever in the country, 19-year-old Rayyan Ebrahim, from Pinelands High School in the Western Cape, has expressed overwhelming pride and gratitude for being able to bag that honour.  

Brimming with excitement, Ebrahim was announced as the overall top achiever by Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, during the official release of the NSC results on Monday evening.

Ebrahim's stellar academic performance includes nine distinctions and an impressive aggregate of 97.57%. He achieved 99% in Further Studies Mathematics (Standard), 100% in Physical Science, 97% in Mathematics, Computer Applications Technology (CAT), and Afrikaans, as well as 98% in Accounting.

Pinelands High School celebrated Ebrahim’s accomplishments in a Facebook post, highlighting that he placed in the Top 1% of candidates for Further Studies Mathematics (FSM) Standard (Calculus and Algebra) in South Africa which is “a phenomenal achievement!” 

The school said Further Studies Mathematics (FSM) is a rigorous academic subject administered by the IEB as part of the new IEB International Secondary Certificate and is certified separately from the NSC qualification.

He also obtained 95% A* in Further Studies Mathematics (Extended), Further Studies, 86% A in Mathematics – Matrices and Graph Theory and 99% A* in Further Studies: Mathematics Standard (Calculus & Algebra). 

Speaking to SAnews, the top student described the moment his name was announced as surreal.

He said that when his name was announced he felt like he just didn't register what was happening, however he focused on going up to the stage in disbelief.  

“I just felt so overwhelmed, and I was really in disbelief regarding the announcement of being the top achiever in the country. But yeah, I am just so humbled by the achievement, and so grateful to be recognised for my hard work,” he said. 

Reflecting on his matric journey, Ebrahim admitted it was a challenging year, marked by high expectations and moments of self-doubt. 

“My matric year was quite a tumultuous one. It was overwhelming at times and I tended to put a lot of pressure on myself to do well, and so I just had to constantly affirm myself that, you know, my best was good enough.

“I constantly just did my best and relied a lot on the support from my family and my friends who always wished me well and affirmed that I could do well,” he said. 

Ebrahim explained that his study routine involved waking up early in the mornings to study, which is when he was the most productive. He also made use of online resources, like study guides, YouTube videos, for those concepts that he was struggling to understand. 

“I also used to tutor my friends as well, in Maths during holidays. And we'd work through past papers together, and we would just brainstorm ideas and try to teach other new ways of approaching the problem,” he said. 

Looking ahead, Ebrahim plans to study Data Science at the University of Cape Town. He is drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of the field, which combines mathematics, programming, and statistics to extract insights from data.

He said that he chose the course because of his love for Maths and the fact that it is relevant to the needs of the country. 

“I'm so excited about getting into a dynamic career field that is so relevant to the needs of South Africa. My love for Mathematics and its relevance to the country’s future inspired my choice,” he explained. 

Advising the matric class of 2025, the student emphasised consistent effort and a balanced life for success.

“Matric is a very challenging year. It's very long and busy, but if you just work consistently throughout the year, and you stay on top of your work, and by the time you reach your final exam, you will be more than well prepared. 

“I think it's important to live a balanced life while you're studying. So, there is always time to make for your family, or exercising and enjoy your matric year, while also getting the marks that you want,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Wed, 01/15/2025 - 15:24

70 views
Read moreTop matriculant Rayyan Ebrahim humbled by his achievement

Matric results day brings joy and celebration across South Africa

Location: News

Matric results day brings joy and celebration across South Africa

There was a hive of activity at schools across the country this morning as matriculants eagerly returned to collect their examination results. 

The air was filled with excitement, nervous anticipation and bursts of joy, as learners celebrated the culmination of 12 years of hard work.

Many schools held special celebrations to honor the Class of 2024, applauding their resilience and dedication. Teachers and principals were on hand to congratulate the learners, and many students took the opportunity to express their heartfelt gratitude to their educators for their unwavering support and guidance.

One standout achiever in the 2024 matric cohort is South African teenage sprinting sensation, Bayanda Walaza. The Olympic silver medalist capped off an extraordinary 2024 by crossing the matric finish line with flying colors. 

Walaza achieved a Bachelor pass with exemption and secured a distinction, marking yet another milestone in a year that also saw him clinch an Olympic silver medal and the title of Junior World Champion.

Reflecting on his achievement, Walaza admitted to feeling a mix of nerves and excitement as he opened his results. 

“It was scary to open the envelope, but I’m really impressed with how I did,” he said.

He said the results have inspired him to push himself to be better both on and off the track.

Walaza, who plans to study Logistics, has shown that balancing academics and sports at the highest level is possible with determination and hard work. 

His story is a shining example of the potential within South Africa’s youth and a source of inspiration for many.

Across the nation, the Class of 2024 is celebrating excellence and new beginnings. From heartfelt reunions with teachers to sharing dreams of the future with family and friends, the day marks a significant milestone in the lives of South Africa’s young achievers.

The Class of 2024 achieved an unprecedented achievement that bears testimony to learners’ personal commitment and advances in the basic education sector.

The national pass rate for the National Senior Certificate increased from 82.9% in 2023 to 87.3% last year, which is the highest ever in the country’s history. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 01/14/2025 - 11:48

88 views
Read moreMatric results day brings joy and celebration across South Africa

Umalusi approves release of Matric 2024 exam results

Location: News

Umalusi approves release of Matric 2024 exam results

South Africa’s national education quality assurance body, Umalusi, has approved the release of the November 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.

The national results will be released later today.

“The approval statements bring together decisions taken after careful consideration of available evidence by various role players at different stages of Umalusi’s quality assurance cycle. 

“EXCO’s approval for the release of candidates’ results is confirmation that the assessment leading to certification in schools, adult education centres and technical and vocational education and training colleges was of the required standard across all qualifications for all examinations conducted in this period under review,” Umalusi Council chairperson, Yunus Ballim, said on Monday.

He explained that a critical step of quality assurance preceding approval is the “standardisation of the examination results by the Assessment Standards Committee (ASC) of Umalusi Council”.

“During its standardisation meetings, the ASC conducted careful analysis of the results for each of the over 500 subjects, spread across four assessment bodies and qualifications, to arrive at standardisation decisions. 

“The process is detailed and rigorous and is guided by standardisation principles, which are supported by numerical evidence and narrative reports,” the chairperson said.

Ballim noted that no irregularities had been reported that could have blighted the integrity of the examinations.

“Umalusi is extremely pleased that there were no detected cases of paper leakages, or other irregularities that could have compromised the overall credibility and integrity of the examinations.

“We are very grateful to all examining bodies and related role players for tightening up the entire value chain, including the work done by the State Security Agency in relation to the places where question papers were printed, packaged and stored,” he said.

The chairperson recognised and praised the achievements of the Class of 2024 and encouraged those who did not pass.

“Umalusi congratulates the Class of 2024, who have succeeded in the examinations. Words of appreciation are also due to their teachers, parents, guardians and all those who have supported the learners throughout their journey, including the maintenance and cleaning staff at our schools and colleges, the taxi and other public and private transport drivers who took care in bringing our learners to school, and the community members who show concern for the learning of our children. 

“To those learners who have not succeeded, please do not give up. Work harder and you will do better in this year’s examinations. 

"For guidance in terms of what to look for in choosing an institution (school or private college) to register with to improve your results, you are advised to visit the website of Umalusi. That will ensure that you do not fall prey to bogus institutions,” Ballim said.

He reiterated the body’s commitment to South Africa’s education.

“Nobody doubts what we do in the service of every single young person in this country who chooses to walk the path of building their lives through education. 

“Nobody is ever hesitant about the fact that the best service we can do to each of those young people is to give them a certificate that has credibility,” Ballim said. 

Marking of the NSC examinations commenced on 27 November 2024, with the entire process involving over 50 000 markers. Statistics ahead of the exams showed that over 727 000 full-time candidates and some 155 215 part-time candidates were registered for last year’s NSC examinations. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 01/13/2025 - 13:35

65 views
Read moreUmalusi approves release of Matric 2024 exam results

Well wishes for Matric Class of 2024

Location: News

Well wishes for Matric Class of 2024

The Western Cape Education Department has wished matrics well ahead of the Class of 2024 matric results announcement.

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube and Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule will announce the results for the Matric Class of 2024 on Monday.

With the wait almost over for the matric Class of 2024, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has reminded learners that there are other options available for candidates that do not achieve their desired results.

“While our matrics await their individual results, we urge them to remember that there are options for those candidates that did not achieve their desired results. We encourage all learners who did not pass their exams not to give up and to continue doing whatever they can to complete Grade 12.  They can apply for a re-mark or re-check if they do not feel their results reflect their performance, or write the exams in June,” it said in a statement on Sunday.

More information on these options is available on the WCED website: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/national-senior-certificate-nsc-exams

There are also measures in place to receive counselling for matrics who are disappointed with their results, either by approaching their school, which will put them in touch with the relevant officials in the district offices, or by phoning the Safe Schools Hotline on 0800 45 46 47.

“We wish all of our matrics the best of luck for the release of the results,” said the provincial department.

The WCED said the national and provincial pass rates for the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams will be announced at Monday’s ceremony while also adding that the national results event, which will be held in Gauteng, will also recognise individual candidates who have achieved outstanding results at the national level.

“We hope to improve our overall pass rate of 81.5% achieved in 2023 and our bachelors pass rate of 42.2% in 2023, and in both cases, we also hope to improve the number of candidates who achieved these results.  In the 2023 matric exams, the WCED achieved the top Mathematics pass rate of 75.4% and the top Physical Science pass rate of 82.2%. Again, we would like to see improved results in these areas but will also focus on the quality of passes for these subjects.”

The department added that individual candidate results for Western Cape learners will be released at schools and on the WCED website on Tuesday, 14 January 2025, at 10 am.

Second Chance Matric Programme  

Meanwhile, registration for the 2025 Second Chance Matric Programme  (SCMP) opened in October 2024 and will close on 7 February 2025.

The Department of Basic Education’s SCMP is a matric rewrite programme that was established in 2016 for learners who would like to improve their results or eventually complete their matric qualification on a part-time basis.

READ | Second Chance Matric Programme:  Grab the chance to pass matric
   
The aim of the programme is to provide support to learners who have not been able to meet the requirements of the National Senior Certificate or the extended Senior Certificate. -SAnews.gov.za 
                                                                                               

Neo
Sun, 01/12/2025 - 13:24

343 views
Read moreWell wishes for Matric Class of 2024

Condolences for family of Kwaito legend, Doc Shebeleza

Location: News

Condolences for family of Kwaito legend, Doc Shebeleza

Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, has expressed “deep sadness” at the passing of Kwaito legend and pioneer Victor ‘Doc Shebeleza’ Bogopane.

The beloved musician passed away at the age of 51 on Thursday.

“Gauteng is deeply saddened by the passing of Doc Shebeleza, especially as his death follows closely after that of fellow artist, Winnie Khumalo. Shebeleza’s influence on the Kwaito genre was profound and will continue to inspire both emerging and seasoned artists.

“We will also remember him for his charitable work in supporting and assisting artists through his organization, AMAHA. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Bogopane family, friends, and all those who enjoyed his music. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Chiloane said.

Bogopane rose to fame in the 1990s following the release of his debut album “S’kumfete” which included hit songs including Ebumnandini. 

He was also part of the Kwaito group, Amaskumfete. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 09:31

4 views
Read moreCondolences for family of Kwaito legend, Doc Shebeleza

Water and Sanitation updates on progress to deliver water to Hammanskraal residents

Location: News

Water and Sanitation updates on progress to deliver water to Hammanskraal residents

The Department of Water and Sanitation, the Gauteng Provincial Government, the City of Tshwane and Magalies Water are continuing to work together to address the water situation in Hammanskraal. 

The department said this in a joint statement to update the public on progress to date to deliver water to the residents of Hammanskraal. 

“The progress being made is a testament to the importance of effective cooperation between various spheres of government, working together to resolve service delivery challenges,” the department said.

In October 2024, Magalies Water, in collaboration with the City of Tshwane, successfully completed the first phase of the water treatment project, which comprises an advanced facility equipped with four package plants. This was a directive by the Minister of Water and Sanitation to ensure the supply of clean water to the Hammanskraal community. 

“Thus far, significant efforts have been made in consistent pursuit to deliver potable water, including the flushing of the reticulation system, optimisation of the entire system and monitoring of the water quality. The main aim is to ensure that the water is compliant with the SANS [South African National Standards] 241 specifications,” the department said. 

Phase one 

The first phase of the project has been completed, meaning that at least 12.5 megalitres per day (ML/d) of treated water will be supplied to various regions in Hammanskraal. 

These regions are situated within wards 49, 73, 74, and 75, specifically Mandela Village, Marokolong, Ramotse, Kekana Gardens (also referred to as Steve Bikoville) respectively, along with Babelegi Industrial. 

“It is essential that we carefully explore balancing the need for uninterrupted water supply and system optimisation with the quest to fully restore the system and its integrity,” the department said.

Teams from Magalies Water and the City of Tshwane recently pursued the inspection and purging of the reticulation system, which was previously supplied by the Temba Water Works, using water sourced from the new Klipdrift Package Plant, with the aim of ensuring that the system is fully rehabilitated and disinfected. 

This was followed by frequent monitoring of water quality in the reticulation network and the results show that there is significant improvement in the water quality. 

In recognition of the diligent and thorough efforts made by all parties involved, the department said residents need to be aware of the significant progress that has been achieved since last week, following the initial release of water from the Klipdrift Package Plant. 

The following milestones have been reached: 
•    The Klipdrift Package Plant continues to supply the City of Tshwane with projected volumes of approximately 12.5 ML/day. 
•    The water provided by the Klipdrift Package Plant meets the minimum standard requirements for drinking water in South Africa, as specified in SANS 241: 2015, as verified by a laboratory accredited by ISO/IEC 17025. 
•    The Babelegi Reservoir, which services the areas mentioned above, has consistently received and distributed water that complies with SANS 241:2015 at all relevant times. 

From 23 December 2024 to date, the water in all the affected areas has been in full compliance with four critical indices outlined in SANS 241:2015, i.e. Acute Health I & II, Chronic Health, and Aesthetic. Currently, a limited number of areas are receiving focused attention due to operational challenges associated with turbidity (a measure of how cloudy or hazy a fluid is due to the presence of particles that are usually too small to see with the naked eye). 

Based on the turbidity challenges, the department said Magalies Water and the City of Tshwane will continue to flush the system and monitor the water quality to clear the turbidity in the reticulation network. 

This is aimed at ensuring that the water quality is compliant with SANS 241 specifications. 

The department said a formal notification will be issued by the City of Tshwane in the near future after operational compliance targets have been achieved. 

“Once the water supplied has been eliminated of turbidity, the City of Tshwane will issue a formal notification to the community that the water is safe for human consumption,” the department said. 

The department further reminded all residents that South Africa is a water-scarce country.

“Let us use this precious resource sparingly and effectively implement water conservation initiatives. Each drop counts,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 01/03/2025 - 10:54

79 views
Read moreWater and Sanitation updates on progress to deliver water to Hammanskraal residents

President Ramaphosa signs National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill into law

Location: News

President Ramaphosa signs National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill into law

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill, which provides for nuclear safety oversight, ranging from the decontamination of defence facilities, to airline pilot safety.

The National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill marks a significant step in enhancing nuclear safety and aligning South Africa with global regulatory standards. 

The Amendment Bill amends the National Nuclear Regulator Act of 1999 to align it with current international regulatory best practices as determined by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

“This alignment is necessary because South Africa is one of the founding members of the IAEA and is a signatory to various international conventions governing nuclear safety, as promulgated by the IAEA.

“The law gives the National Nuclear Regulator additional functions and provides for the decontamination, decommissioning and closing of national defence force facilities, equipment, machinery and scrap for civilian use,” the Presidency said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Presidency said the Amendment Bill inserts new definitions, amends certain definitions, and removes obsolete definitions, in order to align with IAEA international best practices.

“The law now empowers the Regulator to exercise regulatory oversight to provide nuclear safety assurance, that property of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), designated for release for civilian use, will not cause radiation harm. The Bill also empowers the Regulator to exercise regulatory oversight over occupational exposure of aircrew to cosmic radiation flying below 49 000 feet.

“The new law provides for the control and management of the affairs of the Regulator, including the term of office of the board and the establishment of board committees, and expands the scope of activities which cannot be undertaken without obtaining authorisation from the Regulator,” the Presidency said. 

The amended law also excludes the application of the Defence Act of 2002 – which deals with permits for and inspection of - naval vessels of a foreign state that are visiting South Africa, in view of the challenges of foreign forces disclosing details of naval vessels to host countries.

The signing of the National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill means stronger protections for ordinary South Africans against the risks associated with nuclear materials and activities. 

In simple terms, the National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill means:

  • Safer Defence Facilities: Old military equipment or sites that might have been exposed to nuclear materials will now be thoroughly cleaned and checked before being reused or repurposed for civilian use. This ensures they are safe and will not pose any radiation risks.
  • Protection for Airline Crews: Airline pilots and cabin crew flying at high altitudes are exposed to cosmic radiation. The new law ensures this exposure is monitored and regulated to keep them safe.
  • Stronger Oversight: The National Nuclear Regulator now has clearer rules and more power to ensure all activities involving nuclear materials are strictly controlled, protecting people and the environment from potential harm.
  • Global Standards: The updated law brings South Africa in line with international nuclear safety best practices, ensuring the country meets the highest safety standards. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 12/19/2024 - 12:16

87 views
Read morePresident Ramaphosa signs National Nuclear Regulator Amendment Bill into law

DPWI releases 24 State-owned properties for requests for proposals

Location: News

DPWI releases 24 State-owned properties for requests for proposals

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) has released 24 state-owned properties located across South Africa for requests for proposals from public and private entities. 

The requests for proposals follow a historic memorandum of understanding (MoU) which was signed by the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, KwaZulu-Natal MEC Martin Meyer and eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba to use public assets for the public good. 

The release of the 24 properties for requests for proposal mark a shift for the department where the state previously retained high-value properties despite the properties serving no purpose.

A month after the signing of the MoU to use public assets for public good, the DPWI this week released underutilised state-owned properties located nationwide for requests for proposals. 

In a statement on Wednesday, the department said that this marks phase one of the programme. 

Members of the public and private entities now have until the 13th of March 2025 to make proposals on how these properties can be utilised to ensure that they contribute to the public good, help ignite job creation and add value to their communities. 

After the 13 March, the requests for proposals will be evaluated to consider which are feasible before moving ahead with the process which may include long-term leases, public-private partnerships or selling the assets. 

“This marks a major milestone for the Department in the 7th Administration where we will make good on our promise to invite private and public role-players on this scale to bring us proposals on how these properties can be utilised towards truly benefitting the people of South Africa, either through repurposing or redevelopment,” Minister Macpherson said.

He added that where feasible, the State may partner with the private sector to ensure that properties contribute to economic growth and job creation. 

“We believe these properties will attract significant investment and jobs through their redevelopment.

“We are hoping to use these properties as an example of what can be achieved with underutilised state-owned properties country-wide, and we will soon be signing similar memorandums of understanding with other metropolitan municipalities in Gauteng and the Western Cape to expand the process. 

“This process signals a shift from the department that previously hung onto properties despite serving no purpose. With this programme, the era of state-owned buildings standing empty, attracting crime to communities and chasing away investment is ending,” he explained.

In this round, 24 properties were released for request for proposal located nationwide, with additional properties to be considered for release for request for proposal pending the success of this round. 

The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and the provincial DPWI are following similar processes with the underutilised properties they own.

“I would like to applaud the department public officials under the leadership of the head of the Property Management Trading Entity, Mr Siza Sibande, whose team have worked tirelessly over the past few weeks to help make our vision of using public assets for the public good. 

“By working together with the Municipality and the Provincial Government, we are charting a new course for how state-owned properties can be utilised to serve the people of South Africa,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 12/18/2024 - 13:08

56 views
Read moreDPWI releases 24 State-owned properties for requests for proposals