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KZN communities raise concerns at Presidential Imbizo

Location: News

KZN communities raise concerns at Presidential Imbizo

Crime, access to water and jobs have been raised as bugbears for communities in KwaZulu-Natal, the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo heard on Friday.

Umlazi resident, Sizakele Mpanza, raised concern about the high crime rate in the area, appealing to the President to intervene.

“We are concerned about what is happening. We are living in fear… we can’t even send our children to the shops because we are afraid they will be robbed by these criminals,” Mpanza said.

Mpanza appealed for more police visibility in their community, as well as a satellite police station.

Mziwendoda Sikhakhane from Richards Bay told SAnews that if given a chance to speak to the President, he will ask the President to create more job opportunities, especially for young people.

“Our youth are roaming the streets doing nothing and yet they have qualifications. I am appealing to our government to create more job opportunities,” Sikhakhane said.

Sikhakhane also raised the provision of water as an important factor for communities.

“We are struggling in our community; we don’t have water. We struggle to get water, sometimes we go for days without water,” he said.

Sikhakhane and Mpanza are among the many community members attending the imbizo, which is led by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Umnini Sportsfield in Umgababa.

Cabinet adopted the DDM in August 2019. The DDM is an integrated planning model for cooperative governance, which seeks to be an integrated, district-based, service delivery approach aimed at fast-tracking service delivery. It also seeks to ensure that municipalities are adequately supported and resourced to carry out their mandate.

Friday’s imbizo is the second DDM Presidential Imbizo under the Government of National Unity (GNU). The occasion provides the President, Ministers and KwaZulu-Natal provincial government officials an opportunity to listen to the concerns of communities and respond to them.

Lindiwe Dlamini from Umlazi, a nearby location, raised concern about the slow pace of service delivery.

“We have been waiting for too long. We kept on enquiring from the municipality but we are not getting answers. I am glad the President is here. We hope we are going to get answers today,” Dlamini said.

President Ramaphosa kicked-off the imbizo by visiting the N2 bridge, which partially collapsed earlier this week due to heavy rains.

Upon his arrival, the President was briefed about the damage by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and the South African National Roads Agency SOC Ltd (SANRAL) officials, who said the bridge will be fixed and operational by next month.

After being briefed, President Ramaphosa and his entourage proceeded to Umnini Sportsfield, where communities were given a chance to express their concerns.

The DDM Presidential Imbizo is an important public participation platform that ensures the voices and perspectives of communities are heard to advance a participatory democracy.

The imbizo continues . – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 14:41

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SA’s cruise season officially underway

Location: News

SA's cruise season officially underway

The docking of the World Odyssey at the Port of Cape Town signifies the beginning of South Africa’s cruise season, which will see the docking and sailing of 268 passenger liners at the commercial seaports operated by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA). 

The vessel arrived on 22 October 2024 at the port renowned for being a popular stopover for cruise liners and was recently voted as Africa’s Leading Cruise Port in the 31st Annual World Travel Awards.

Sailing under the flag of the Bahamas, the World Odyssey cruise liner brought approximately 538 international tourists onboard, paving the way for a projected 130 000 tourists anticipated to visit Cape Town during this cruise season.

The 268 scheduled passenger liners, represents an increase of 29% from 207 call-ins in the previous year. 

These vessels will pull along at seven South African commercial seaports, with Cape Town set to welcome 88 call-ins, 47 for Durban, 43 for Gqeberha, 27 for Mossel Bay, five for Saldanha, 14 each for Richards Bay and East London.

“The upsurge in the anticipated vessel call-ins this season supports the strategic positioning of South Africa’s ports as key drivers of economic growth and gateways for international trade. 

“The cruise liner segment is one of the fastest-growing contributors to the country's GDP through tourism revenue. As TNPA, we look forward to collaborating with cruise tourism stakeholders to support the growth of the economy. 

“Building on the success of the previous cruise season, TNPA continues to provide reliable marine services as well as creating berth capacity to enable an efficient cruise vessel service,” said Advocate Phyllis Difeto, the TNPA Acting Chief Executive.

TNPA anticipates that more vessels will be confirmed as the cruise season progresses.

TNPA is responsible for the safe, effective, and efficient economic functioning of the national port system, which it manages in a landlord capacity.

It provides port infrastructure and marine services at the eight commercial seaports in South Africa – Richards Bay, Durban, Saldanha, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mossel Bay and Ngqura.

It also operates within a legislative and regulatory environment and is governed by the National Ports Act (Act No. 12 of 2005). – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 12:49

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Government invests billions in road infrastructure projects in KZN

Location: News

Government invests billions in road infrastructure projects in KZN

With an investment of billlions of rands into the N2 and N3 road infrastructure projects in KwaZulu-Natal, the province is witnessing the biggest road infrastructure upgrade campaign that has been undertaken by government in several decades.

This investment is expected to play a key role in unlocking economic growth and has to date provided training for 1 000 young people, including civil engineers, quantity surveyors, chartered accountants and artisans.

“Once completed, we will have covered 135 kilometers, including the east, west and north and south areas. The total value of the project will be in the region of about R50 billion.

“Easing traffic congestion, making these roads safer both for passengers and freight is a major objective of the project. At the moment, these areas have been plagued by congestion.

“Seventy percent of the freight that moves on land moves through this N2 and N3 corridor to the ports of Durban and Richards Bay,” Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said on Thursday.

As part of the Transport Month programme, Creecy assessed the progress on the projects, starting by vising the Key Ridge project in Peacevale, before making her way to the EB Cloete project upgrades and the N2 KwaMashu to Umdloti River Bridge.

The visit signaled the South African government’s commitment to fast-track the delivery of critical road infrastructure, which is key to unlocking economic growth and the potential of the country. 

“The first objective is to widen the existing roads. On the N3, we want to increase the lanes to four or five lanes. We also want to increase the number of lanes on the interchanges.

“This particular project is extremely interesting because it is about efficiency and road safety. Once it has been completed, there will be a new roadway that connects the N3 from one high level piece of ground to another high-level piece of ground.

“This will eliminate the sharp descent areas and the very sharp curves. That will have an enormous impact on road safety. It will also cut down on travel time and make it much more efficient,” the Minister said.

This work will promote the work of small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) and the work of young people, whether they are in the artisan class or whether they are university graduates.

“They have an opportunity to undertake onsite training so that they can be registered as professionals or as artisans in their particular category of work.

“One of the major problems that we face in this country, in terms of economic development and growth from a construction point of view, is that it is difficult to for small construction companies to grow and attain the necessary experience so they can move up the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) registration ladder,” Creecy said.

Contractors, who wish to work in the public sector, must register with the CIDB. The Register of Contractors (RoC) supports clients in infrastructure procurement, and categorises and grades contractors from 1-9, according to financial and works capability.

“Thirty percent of the spend of this huge project is on subcontractors. The total value of this particular package of work is about R8 billion. The intention is to make sure that by the time a company is finished their particular package of work, they are able to upgrade their CIBD grading and in the future, be able to undertake a higher-level category of work and work of greater value.

“With this project, we have trained 1 000 young people to date, including civil engineers, quantity surveyors, chartered accountants and artisans. Once they have completed their training, they will be able to register as professionals,” Creecy said.

Throughout the history of South Africa, State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) have played an important role in giving practical training to graduates of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and universities.

“In... this project, we are spending R340 million on the training of young people. The intention is that overtime, there will be 2 000 young people that will receive their formal technical training on all these construction sites,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 10/11/2024 - 10:22

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Transnet works to curb shipping delays

Location: News

Transnet works to curb shipping delays

The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has enhanced its ability to curb shipping and cargo-handling delays caused by long waves that impact vessels berthed at its ports, thanks to the delivery of six more hydraulic shore tension units destined for the ports of Cape Town and Ngqura.

From the 52 units procured by TNPA in September 2023, this batch brings the total number of mooring units delivered to 12 and adds to the eight that were installed in the Cape Town and Ngqura ports prior to this acquisition. 

In a statement on Tuesday, Transnet said the timely delivery solidifies the execution of the Transnet Recovery Plan, which aims to improve operational efficiencies and increase the value of service to customers.

Shipping and cargo handling operations at the Cape Town and Ngqura ports are often impacted by strong winds reaching 35 to 50 knots and high sea swells exceeding 3.5 meters. 

Such inclement weather conditions cause operational and safety disruptions leading to delays in vessel movements. 

A hydraulic tension mooring unit is a system placed on the quayside to ensure the safety of docked vessels by mitigating the severity of long-wave effects on vessels. The benefits include minimised downtime and safety incidents during operations.

“The introduction of the shore tension units at the Port of Cape Town has significantly improved our vessel operations,” said National Operations Manager at CMA CGM South Africa, Leon Reddy, commenting on the delivery as one of the shipping lines that are benefiting from the installed shore tensions.   

“With the ability to keep our vessels stable and secure alongside the berth, we have seen a notable reduction in vessel movement and ranging.

“This has resulted in increased container productivity and reduced port stay times, leading to improved overall efficiency and reduced costs. We support TNPA's initiative to invest in additional shore tension units and look forward to continued cooperation to enhance port operations," he said.

TNPA has procured 52 shore tension units with an allocation of 16 units for the Port of Cape Town with six delivered, 14 for the Port of Durban, eight for the Port of Port Elizabeth, six for the Port of Ngqura with all six delivered, four for the Port of Saldanha and four for the Port of Richards Bay. 

The phased delivery of the rest of the units will be completed by early 2025.

TNPA is responsible for the safe, effective, and efficient economic functioning of the national port system, which it manages in a landlord capacity. 

It provides port infrastructure and marine services at the eight commercial seaports in South Africa – Richards Bay, Durban, Saldanha, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mossel Bay and Ngqura. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 09/17/2024 - 10:53

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UIF announces extended operating hours

Location: News

UIF announces extended operating hours

The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has announced that selected service points will be open on Saturdays to render services to clients and employers during the month of September.

“A decision to extend operating hours at UIF service points and to ramp up capacity was taken in anticipation of increased demand for real-time services, after the Pretoria High Court at the end of August 2024 issued an interim interdict preventing a service provider from implementing a new contract for support and maintenance services to the uFiling platform,” the Department of Employment and Labour said in a statement. 

uFiling is an online platform used by clients and employers to apply for UIF benefits or to register companies with the UIF, declare employees and pay over contributions to the Fund.

The platform is not connected to the main UIF system used to adjudicate and process claims. 

“Due to the uFiling platform not having any support or maintenance at this time, its services was suspended. The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has since the suspension of uFiling processed more than 181 000 claims at service points around the country, totalling a pay out of R419 607 185,” the department said. 

Extended operating hours will be rendered from 07:30 until 16:00 at UIF service points within labour centres during September month as follows:
•    In Gqeberha, East London and Qonce in the Eastern Cape province.
•    At the Pietermaritzburg and Richards Bay labour centres in KwaZulu-Natal.
•    At the Emalahleni, Secunda, Middleburg, Malelane and Mbombela labour centres in Mpumalanga province.
•    At Mahikeng, Potchefstroom, Lichtenburg, Klerksdorp, Vryburg, Christiana, Brits, Taung and Rustenburg labour centre in the North West province.
•    Cape Town, Paarl, Mitchells Plain and Bellville in the Western Cape.

Registration of employers

New employer registrations can be done through BizPortal, available on https://www.bizportal.gov.za/services.aspx.

The department has urged its clients to note that BizPortal is only for employer registration and will not be able to register employees. Employee registration can be undertaken at a nearby labour centre.

Registration can also be done by downloading UI.8 and UI.19 forms from www.labour.gov.za and submitting the completed forms to e-mail address newui8registrations@labour.gov.za.

Declaration of employees

Employers with electronic payroll systems may declare their employees by sending live payroll files to e-mail address Declarations@labour.gov.za or by visiting a nearby labour centre for services. 

In case of a manual declarations an employer can download a UI.19 form from www.labour.gov.za and submit a completed form via email to uif.declarations@labour.gov.za.

Regarding contributions, the department said an employer pays contributions to the UIF before the 7th day of each month. Where the 7th day is not a “business day” such as a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, payments must be made on or before the last business day. 

“UIF contributions are made up of 2% of an employee’s salary. 1% is deducted from the salary of an employee and 1% contributed by the employer.

“Employers who are registered for tax purposes and/or the Skills Development Levy (SDL), must pay their contributions directly to the South African Revenue Services (SARS),” the department said. 

Employers can also pay contributions using bank details provided on the Department of Employment and Labour website www.labour.gov.za and use their UIF reference number as the reference for payment. 

“Through queue management, monitoring of operations and staff repurposing the UIF has been able to adequately handle claim volumes around the country. The Fund is confident that by extending working hours it will be able to maintain the status quo whilst developing alternative online solutions for clients and employers,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 09/11/2024 - 09:51

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Work underway to prevent truck congestion in Richards Bay

Location: News

Work underway to prevent truck congestion in Richards Bay

A team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate will work with municipalities and stakeholders, including Transnet, to prevent truck congestion from the N2 highway leading to the Port of Richards Bay.

This was among the commitments made during a meeting held by the KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements Departments.

Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, recently met with the management and all categories of staff from both departments working in King Cetshwayo, Zululand and UMkhanyakude Districts.

The meeting aimed to ensure that the two departments work collectively to accelerate the construction of roads and human settlements for the benefit of communities.

In a statement issued after the meeting, Duma said the stakeholders have decided to act decisively as the issue of truck congestion is resurfacing. Other stakeholders include the Road Freight Association and Zululand Chamber of Business.

“In addition, we commit to work with Transnet and Richards Bay Bulk Terminal to ensure safe and effective movement of coal destined for exports. Our roads have been damaged and created challenges such as truck related accidents that continue to claim innocent lives.

“There is a special team of traffic officers, uTalagu, that has been assigned to monitor the movements of trucks. Addressing these challenges means that as government we must invest in the development of infrastructure to accommodate the movement of goods and people,” Duma explained.

A need for all stakeholders to work hard to improve the railway networks and tap into aviation and maritime sectors to facilitate the movement of goods, was also emphasised.

He noted that the province is not only a construction site but strategically located along the longest coastline in Africa.

“This means that our economy is driven largely through the transport and logistics sectors based on the two major ports housed in the province, namely the Port of Richards Bay and the Port of Durban.

“Both ports are economically strategic not only to the province of KwaZulu-Natal, but also to the national economy of South Africa since they are linked to the economic heartland of South Africa, Gauteng, via road and rail networks.”

The MEC said the Port of Durban is also a transit point for cross border container traffic for neighbouring countries - a gateway to Southern Africa.

“The Ports of Richards Bay and Durban are important contributors to international trade and a significant enabler for South Africa’s and the province’s economic development. We are working with national government to ensure the expansion of road networks - the N2 and N3, along with our ports,” Duma said.

Apart from speeding up construction of houses for communities, the MEC acknowledged that there will be a growing demand for human settlements and pressure on road networks.

He added that with Richards Bay Industrial Economic Zone being a haven for foreign direct investment and a site for energy infrastructure, the province must be ready to be the host of the 3 000 MW gas-to-power plant to be constructed by power utility  Eskom. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 11:28

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Tugboats position KZN as preferred logistics and transport hub

Location: News

Tugboats position KZN as preferred logistics and transport hub

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli says the introduction of tugboats is not only a boost for the provincial port, but a significant advancement for the province’s economy, particularly within the logistics and maritime sectors.

Ntuli was speaking at the recent christening and naming ceremony of five new tugboats at the Port of Durban, hosted by the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) Eastern Region.

The ceremony marked a major milestone in the TNPA Marine Fleet Renewal Programme, a key component of Transnet’s broader Recovery Plan aimed at enhancing shipping efficiencies across South African ports.

The five newly acquired tugboats are set to be injected into the port’s operations, reinforcing the Marine Fleet Renewal Programme’s objectives of increasing marine craft availability and ensuring smoother, more efficient port operations.

This strategic initiative aligns with Transnet’s mission to revitalise its infrastructure and strengthen the country’s logistics network.

Ntuli congratulated the TNPA on this critical acquisition, emphasising the importance of modernising port infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the maritime industry.

“The introduction of the tugboats is not only a boost for the port, but a significant advancement for the province’s economy, particularly within the logistics and maritime sectors. This initiative positions KwaZulu-Natal as the preferred logistics and transport hub in South Africa.

“Strategic investments, such as the R1 billion allocated to enhancing the Durban Port, are vital to driving economic growth and creating much-needed employment opportunities in our province," Ntuli said.

Ntuli said both the Durban and Richards Bay ports are primed to become preferred gateways for cargo exports, bolstering KwaZulu-Natal’s economic competitiveness, and supporting South Africa’s global trade ambitions.

Journey toward economic recovery on course

Transnet Board Chairperson Andile Sangqu underscored the importance of the TNPA Marine Fleet Renewal Programme, noting that Transnet’s journey towards economic recovery is firmly on course.

With the advancements in operations and strategic initiatives, particularly through the Marine Fleet Renewal Programme, Sangqu said Transnet is witnessing significant progress in restoring and enhancing the efficiency of South Africa’s port infrastructure.

He said the successful implementation of these initiatives reflects Transnet’s commitment to fulfilling the objectives of the Transnet Recovery Plan.

“This plan is crucial to maintaining South Africa’s competitive edge in the global maritime industry and ensuring the country’s ports operate at world-class standards. The christening of these five tugboats marks a new chapter for the Port of Durban and sets the foundation for further advancements in the province’s maritime capabilities.

“With KwaZulu-Natal’s strategic location and ongoing investments in port infrastructure, the province is well-positioned to become a leader in logistics and transportation, driving economic growth and fostering international trade,” Sangqu said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Mon, 08/19/2024 - 10:50

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Experts urged to add their voice on water and climate issues

Location: News

Experts urged to add their voice on water and climate issues

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has implored academia and global experts in research and science to prioritise major water, environment and climate change issues facing the entire global community.

Mahlobo made the call at the International Conference on Water and Environmental Sustainability, currently underway in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

The two-day conference which began on Monday, is organised by the University of Zululand in collaboration with the Changán University in China.

The conference presents a distinguished forum for global experts, including researchers, scientists, academics, industry representatives and students to engage in scholarly debate and knowledge exchange.

It is also used to address the ongoing water issues in South Africa, serving as a global platform for experts to discuss and find solutions for pressing challenges related to water scarcity, quality, and management in South Africa.

Addressing delegates on Monday, Mahlobo said the issues of environment and climate change have not been given the priority they deserve.

Mahlobo highlighted challenges, including population growth and migration, which have negatively impacted water availability to the people around the world, and the environment.

He said many countries have not properly planned for population growth and migration which have an impact on the sustainability of water and the environment.

“I therefore urge you that, in your discussions, you must come up with resolutions on how we deal with these issues especially around the finite resource of water. We call on you as the experts in your respective fields to raise your voices with information and knowledge to those in authority,” Mahlobo said.

University of Zululand Vice-Chancellor, Professor Xoliswa Mtose, noted that the conference is held at a time when the world is grappling with a myriad of interconnected issues elaborated in the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

She said this has generated a lot of research and debate among the academia to galvanise national and global development on issues of water and environment.

“The collaboration between the University of Zululand and Changán University in China is on knowledge sharing aimed at addressing the challenges of developments in the water and sustainability as depicted in the Sustainable Development Goals framework.

“Therefore, the research papers to be delivered here today will reflect on the national, continental and global footprint as far as water and environmental issues are concerned,” Mtose said.

The scholars and academics at the conference indicated that the outcomes of the conference will not only influence the global versatile issues of water and environmental sustainability, but also enable them to enhance collaborations and knowledge sharing. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 12:22

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KZN North Coast shows off great conditions for the Engen Ballito Downwind title

Location: MyPR

With a selection of the province’s top competitive paddlers taking to the Indian Ocean on Sunday, 7 July, the 2024 Engen Ballito Downwind was always going to be a hotly contested tournament. But in the end, it was East London brothers, Matthew and Joshua Fenn, who took top honours in the doubles surfski race from …

Read moreKZN North Coast shows off great conditions for the Engen Ballito Downwind title

EnerGeo Alliance Champions Gas as South Africa’s Transition Fuel of Choice

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

In its latest natural gas policy brief, global trade association EnerGeo Alliance has positioned natural gas as the premier transition fuel for South Africa, citing its reduced carbon emissions, scalability and cost competitiveness. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org)– as the voice of the African energy sector – supports these data-driven findings and calls for greater foreign investment in Africa's natural gas prospects.

South Africa's power supply remains in urgent need of diversification away from aging coal- and diesel-powered plants. While the country is looking to renewables to diversify its power mix and alleviate load shedding, the brief identifies natural gas as the ideal transition fuel to achieving a low-carbon future and meeting the demands of South Africa's rapidly growing population and economy. According to the report, countries that use gas as a source for power generation have seen their electricity supply grow approximately three times faster in the past decade than those without gas. The Chamber has long advocated for the exploration and development of Africa's natural gas resources – of which the continent holds over 620 trillion cubic feet – and commends EnerGeo Alliance for championing its expanded role in the energy mix.

With member companies spanning more than 50 countries, EnerGeo Alliance brings together the global geoscience industry to discover, develop and deliver alternative energy and low-carbon energy solutions that meet growing energy demand. Natural gas emits 50-60% less carbon dioxide, rendering it a relatively clean energy source able to meet power demand reliably and at scale. Gas also serves as a critical feedstock for the production of fertilizers and petrochemicals, as well as a source of process heat in energy-intensive industries, creating the potential to decarbonize heavy industry. According to the World Economic Forum, a tripling of sub-Saharan Africa's power consumption using natural gas would only correspond to a one percent increase in global carbon emissions.

Natural gas also represents the most cost-effective pathway to energy security for South Africa and the continent at-large. It can provide both base load and backup power – whereas solar and wind power present intermittency problems – and is more cost-competitive as a base load supply than nuclear. According to the policy brief, large-scale discoveries like Brulpadda-Luiperd, the offshore Orange Basin and shale reserve prospects in the Karoo Basin suggest that South Africa could not only meet its power demand through domestic gas resources, but also stimulate broader economic development through regional gas exports.

EnerGeo Alliance highlights South Africa's promising reserves in Mossel Bay and the Orange River Basin, as well as shale gas in the Karoo Basin, for further upstream investment. Through advanced seismic survey, upstream geoscience and data generation activities play a key role in identifying potential gas reserves, de-risking exploration and reducing the environmental footprint associated with gas exploration and extraction. Major investment is also needed across South Africa's midstream and downstream sectors, including regional transmission pipelines, gas storage facilities and gas-to-liquids, regasification and LNG plants. While the construction of gas-fired power plants is already underway at Coega, Richards Bay and Saldanha Bay, new projects are needed to boost South Africa's gas availability and reliability.

“The AEC supports the EnerGeo Alliance in positioning gas as critical to South Africa's energy independence and low-carbon future. The science confirms this, and the bottom line confirms this. More capital must flow to African upstream and integrated gas projects, and we must support the geoscience community so that natural gas exploration is no longer seen as a risk, but as a given,” says NJ Ayuk, AEC Executive Chairman. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Community and conservation initiatives take centre stage at Ballito Pro

Location: MyPR

The 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill celebrates the ocean through surfing, seaside activities, and a dedicated conservation and community empowerment programme. As the Ballito Pro festival gets underway in KwaDukuza from 25 June to 8 July 2024, there are many ways for visitors to get involved and support these positive initiatives. “The reality is …

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Reload Logistics Unveils New Brand Identity and Major Expansions

Location: Business
Reload Logistics

Reload Logistics (www.ReloadLogistics.com/), a leading provider of end-to-end supply chain solutions, proudly unveils its new brand identity to better align with its innovative, modern approach to logistics. Founded in 2007, Reload has been strategically amassing assets across major routes and ports in Sub-Saharan Africa to provide clients with the most flexible and accessible solutions in the market.

The new brand embodies Reload's commitment to constant innovation, ensuring clients receive the most efficient and forward-thinking solutions for their cargo. This fresh visual identity reflects the company's ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the supply chain sector.

Reload Logistics is rapidly accelerating its growth with an already vast asset portfolio, including warehouses, trucks, and rail capabilities across all major routes and ports in Sub-Saharan Africa, providing end-to-end services to global clients. In addition to the rebranding, several key developments will enhance Reload's capabilities and service offerings:

Expansion of RGT Warehouse in Zambia: The RGT facility in Zambia has expanded to a total storage capacity of 80,000 sqm, with 60,000 sqm of covered storage and a 20,000 sqm secure bonded yard. This expansion provides Reload Logistics' clients with more efficient cargo handling and ample space for diverse commodities.

Sulphur Bulk Terminal in Richards Bay: Reload has invested in a 50,000 sqm Sulphur Bulk Terminal in Richards Bay, South Africa. This strategic addition complements the company's extensive portfolio, which includes a fleet of over 1,000 trucks, 200 wagons, and more than 1 million sqm of warehousing space across 13 countries.

Acquisition of Five Locomotives: To enhance service capabilities, Reload Logistics has acquired five diesel-electric mainline freight and passenger locomotives. These locomotives enable the company to handle larger cargo volumes, ensure timely deliveries, and offer greater routing flexibility while reducing its carbon footprint with energy-efficient technology.

"We are excited to unveil our new brand identity," said Roger Graham, Chief Marketing Officer of Reload Logistics. "This new look represents our growth and innovation. Our expansions and acquisitions underscore our commitment to providing top-tier service enabled by our forward-thinking solutions designed for our clients."

Visit our new website at www.ReloadLogistics.com to explore the refreshed brand and discover how Reload Logistics can provide tailored solutions for your logistics needs.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Reload Logistics.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Roger Graham 
Chief Marketing Officer
Email: brand@reloadlogistics.com

About Reload Logistics:
Reload Logistics is one of Africa's leading providers of end-to-end supply chain solutions for metals, minerals, soft commodities, and project cargo. With over 1,000 trucks, rail wagons, and more than 1 million sqm of storage, Reload Logistics operates in more than 13 countries, providing seamless freight solutions across Africa, Asia, and Europe. Fueled by cutting-edge technology, Reload Logistics ensures real-time updates for clients in challenging supply chain environments, reaffirming its position as an industry innovator.

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Looking past the elections: A more courageous role for big business in delivering the promises of the Constitution

Location: MyPR

Professor Brian Ganson is Head of the Centre on Conflict & Collaboration at Stellenbosch Business School, a hub for research and reflection on the private sector, conflict, and human security. We already know that whatever new governments emerge at local, provincial, and national levels due to voting on 29 May, they will face overwhelming challenges …

Read moreLooking past the elections: A more courageous role for big business in delivering the promises of the Constitution

M&A Activity in South Africa expected to remain muted in 2024 amidst global economic headwinds and regulatory uncertainty

Location: MyPR

Chris Green, Managing Partner, Hogan Lovells SA M&A activity in South Africa declined sharply in 2023 relative to the two preceding years, in line with global trends. The factors driving this included, amongst others, global economic headwinds particularly high inflation and high interest rates, the well-documented geopolitical uncertainty in Europe and the Middle East, ongoing …

Read moreM&A Activity in South Africa expected to remain muted in 2024 amidst global economic headwinds and regulatory uncertainty

uMhlathuze Municipality called to improve security measures

Location: News

uMhlathuze Municipality called to improve security measures

KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, has advised the uMhlathuze Local Municipality Executive Council to implement stringent measures to improve security and control firearm access within the municipality's premises.

The MEC’s call follows an incident where two bodyguards responsible for the Mayor and City Manager of uMhlathuze Municipality in Richards Bay died during a shooting at the municipal office two weeks ago.

According to reports, the shooting took place at the municipal office, where the two bodyguards were scheduled to attend a meeting in the office of Deputy City Manager for Community Services, Mathews Oliphant.

Sithole-Moloi convened a meeting with uMhlathuze Municipality’s Executive Council on Tuesday to discuss the recent developments. 

During the meeting, uMhlathuze Municipality Mayor, Xolani Ngwezi, and his team provided the MEC with updates on security measures and other necessary steps that have been taken to ensure officials’ safety, and the public within the municipality’s premises.

Sithole-Moloi described the incident as unprecedented and condemned it in the strongest possible terms.

Sithole-Moloi also raised concerns about the state of security within the council and advised the council to implement stringent security measures.

"As the KZN CoGTA, we would like to assure the residents of uMhlathuze Municipality that we are investigating the matter, and stringent measures will be implemented to ensure the safety of councillors, staff, and the community," Sithole-Moloi said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Wed, 04/10/2024 - 12:53

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South African Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Prioritize Gas, Renewable Energy to Drive Efficiency

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

South African Special Economic Zones (SEZ) are turning to natural gas and renewable energy to secure energy supply while improving operational efficiency. During a panel discussion at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium of South Africa (SIDSSA) in Cape Town on Tuesday, representatives from various SEZs across the country underscored the role gas and renewables have already begun to play.

Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit https://SIDSSA.org.za/.

With South Africa currently faced with an energy crisis, ensuring stability of supply has become a rising challenge for businesses across the country. SEZs are not exempt in this regard. According to Bheka Zulu, CEO, Tshwane Automotive SEZ, “This has led us to find innovative solutions…we are currently building a gas plant project – and solar. We still need to find more energy. Partnerships are key, because stakeholders can help us achieve this.”

Similarly, the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) SEZ is also developing gas and renewable energy projects to enhance energy security while reducing reliance on the national electrical grid. Simthembile Mapu, Executive Manager: Business Development and Support at the RBIDZ SEZ, said “We have a gas to power plant and are also constructing a pipeline. We also have a wind farm.”

While renewables stand to support operational efficiency, baseload power provided by South Africa's state utility Eskom remains imperative.

“We are talking about an intervention in renewable energy. Renewable energy is less about the base load. We can never downplay the role Eskom plays to make sure the baseload is taken care of. The issue of the lack of power is a major [challenge]. We need to sort out the issue of power supply in our country to support SEZ,” stated Themba Koza, Acting CEO, COEGA.

Strategically designated areas for targeted economic activities, South Africa's SEZs are to accelerate industrialization in the country. Stieneke Jensma, COO: Industrial Zones Program, Industrial Development Corporation, explained that “Our mandate is to accelerate the development of SEZ. We started a program focusing on energy security, specifically regarding SEZ. The idea is to collaborate and to ensure that what we are delivering promotes industrialization.”  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About SIDSSA 2024:
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.

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KZN continues quest to remain most favoured investment destination

Location: News

KZN continues quest to remain most favoured investment destination

While unemployment figures may cause despair, KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, says the rate of investment into the province is a sign that tomorrow will be better than today.

“As KwaZulu-Natal, we faced an uphill battle in ensuring that investor confidence is unwavering, despite challenges with load shedding, the civil unrest, ageing utilities' infrastructure, some of which could not withstand the recent floods. Yet we remain determined to continue in our quest to ensure that investors know that KwaZulu-Natal is and remains the most favoured investment destination in Southern Africa,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier made the remarks when delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the Oval Cricket Stadium in Pietermaritzburg on Wednesday.

Dube-Ncube said during the South African Investment Conference (SAIC) held last year, where President Ramaphosa’s target was exceeded by some R306 billion, KwaZulu-Natal’s share included 55 companies in the province, which invested over R300 billion.

Dube-Ncube said some of the investments are located in the province's Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Richards Bay and Dube Trade Port, and around the province. 

“Targeted business expansion and retention support activities amounted to over R23 billion, resulting in 37 201 jobs being created. Added to this are investments attracted by Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN) over the last two decades, amounting to over R60 billion and creating over 95 000 jobs,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said KwaZulu-Natal is committed to the establishment of new leather and textile Special Economic Zones in the Newcastle and Ladysmith corridor, which are estimated at R600 million. 

She said the two new SEZs will add to the two provincial SEZs of Dube Trade Port and Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ), and will create 4 500 employment opportunities.

According to the Premier, 35 Black Industrialists have been supported by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and for grant funding, and they will create approximately 4 000 jobs. She said the target is to support 10 new Black Industrialists in the coming financial year.

“KwaZulu-Natal has 35 small scale fisheries cooperatives comprising 1 000 small scale fishers registered by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. Government has rolled out training to capacitate these fishers in the variety of Ocean Economy and Maritime technical skills,” the Premier said.

Dube-Ncube also highlighted some government-led projects to create jobs, including the Port of Durban's R1.34 billion investment programme aimed at upgrading port facilities to mainly increase port capacity. This created 1 328 jobs.

The Passenger Rail Agency South Africa (PRASA) has also spent over R900 million in KwaZulu­-Natal through its capital programme on investment and infrastructure works. 

“This includes projects on rolling stock upgrades, including the Bridge City Development with a new rail network, new access gates and CCTV cameras and stations, and the Dalbridge turnaround facility and general infrastructure station improvement. These were never there prior to this government.

“In 2023, the R2 billion Dr Pixley ka lsaka Seme Regional Hospital was officially opened with 500 beds and a full package of regional services provided. This hospital has changed lives, especially in the Phoenix, lnanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu (PINK) area, and created 5 312 jobs during construction,” Dube-Ncube highlighted.

The Premier acknowledged that government alone cannot address the enormous developmental challenges faced by the province. 

“In order to accelerate development, we have partnered with the private sector to stimulate our economy. The public and private projects, worth over R129 billion, have created over 339 000 jobs,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 02/29/2024 - 10:05

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KZN, Transnet Pipelines meet to discuss areas of support

Location: News

KZN, Transnet Pipelines meet to discuss areas of support

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is committed to supporting the Transnet Pipelines (TPL) in implementing interventions to address the challenges faced by the organisation.

KZN Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, made the commitment during a meeting held with Transnet Pipelines Acting Chief Executive, Sibongiseni Khathi.

The focus of the meeting was to provide the Premier with a comprehensive understanding of TPL's operations, emphasising the strategic significance of the fuel pipeline in safeguarding energy supply.

TPL, an operating division of Transnet SOC Ltd, owns, manages and controls South Africa's network of 3 114 kilometres of high-pressure petroleum and gas pipeline network in South Africa. 
 
The meeting also familiarised the Premier with the upcoming capital projects scheduled for commencement in KwaZulu-Natal, specifically the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Richards Bay and TM1 Accumulator Tanks in Island View. 

The two projects are poised to make a substantial economic impact in the province.
 
During the engagement, held on Friday, Khathi presented the challenges related to fuel theft from the organisation’s pipelines and encroachments along the pipeline servitude. 

Khathi also underscored the importance of securing necessary licenses and approvals, including Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) timeously for the upcoming projects. 

“Building strong relationships with the KZN government is fundamental to our commitment to sustainable development and community engagement. The discussions were insightful, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for collaborative efforts to growing the economy of the region.

“TPL remains dedicated to fostering strong partnerships with key stakeholders, and the engagement with Dube-Ncube marks a significant step towards mutual understanding and cooperation,” Khathi said.
 
The Premier said the collaborative spirit demonstrated during the meeting signifies a shared commitment to the success of TPL's operations and the realisation of the upcoming capital projects.
 
“We have a vested interest in the resolution of these challenges because we appreciate that the province’s economic performance which translates to job creation and addressing unemployment, is determined by how well strategic entities like TPL operate,” Dube Ncube said.

The meeting formed part of several engagements undertaken by the Premier with various stakeholders in different sectors, ahead of the State of the Province Address (SOPA) to take place on 28 February 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 02/26/2024 - 09:52

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‘The conclude of load shedding is indeed in sight’ – Ramakgopa

Location: News

'The end of load shedding is indeed in sight' - Ramakgopa

Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says despite “obstacles, uncertainties and temporary setbacks”, the end of load shedding is in sight.

He was addressing the State of the Nation Address (SONA) debate held at the Cape Town City Hall on Tuesday.

“[The] path to achieving a stable and sustainable energy landscape has been fraught with obstacles, uncertainties, and temporary setbacks and yet, with each passing day, we continue to register progress as we chart the path to energy security.

“The end of load shedding is indeed in sight; the future is bright,” he said.

Eskom power stations

The Minister explained the steps government, in cooperation with Eskom, has taken to urgently address the energy challenge in the country including returning units to service on time or earlier and bolstering new generation capacity.

“Units 1 to 3 of Kusile [Power Station], which had been out of service since October of 2022, were successfully returned ahead of schedule. As planned, Unit 5 was synchronised to the grid in December 2023, contributing 800MW. The four Kusile Units collectively injected 3200MW of capacity into the grid.

“Medupi [Power Station] Unit 4 will return to service this year in September, a year ahead of schedule. Kusile Unit 6 will be synchronised in late November 2024. These units will add 1600MW to the grid. In addition, Unit 2 of Koeberg [Power Station] will return to service in September 2024, giving us 980MW following a planned outage. These interventions will collectively add 2580MW to the grid in 2024. The end of load shedding is indeed within sight,” he said.

Added to this, Eskom’s rigorous maintenance plan for power stations has been implemented, which Ramokgopa said is expected to ensure that “going into the winter of 2024, the fleet’s reliability will have been significantly strengthened”.

“This also means that heading into the winter peak demand period, we can claw back up to 2 000MW by tapering planned maintenance and strengthening available capacity.

“From March of 2024, we will begin reducing planned maintenance from the current 6 000MW to 5 000MW in April 2024 and to around 3 500MW in May 2024, a threshold that will be sustained during the winter demand period,” he said.

New generation capacity

Ramokgopa revealed that to further bolster future energy security, Eskom is in the process of appointing a team which is expected to “undertake a procurement process for partners to develop the Richards Bay Closed Cycle Gas Turbine”.

This is a plan to yield a further 3 000MW for the grid.

Furthermore, the procurement of nuclear energy is also on the table.

“Gas will increasingly feature prominently in our short- to medium-term base load requirements. Eskom is working on converting Gourikwa and Ankerlig [power stations] to gas from diesel on the Open Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) technology. This initiative is anticipated to yield an additional 2 000MW, with a further 1 000MW expected from the conversion to Closed Cycle Gas Turbines (CCGT).

“[Government] will commence the procurement process of an additional 2 500MW of new nuclear capacity this year on an affordable scale and pace basis, as well as 1 500MW of pump storage facility at Tubatse in Limpopo,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:42

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Transnet steps up efforts to curb shipping delays

Location: News

Transnet steps up efforts to curb shipping delays

The first batch of four hydraulic mooring units procured by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to improve operations and reduce shipping delays at ports have been delivered and operationalised at the Ports of Cape Town and Ngqura.

The batch is part of the 52 units procured by the authority.

TNPA General Manager for Infrastructure, Thecla Mneney, said: “This marks the first of a series of major port equipment deliveries at our commercial seaports this year. We continue to make progress in fast-tracking the implementation of key investments in port infrastructure to improve operational efficiencies and provide quality service to the maritime industry”.

The TNPA also explained the uses of the units.

“A hydraulic tension mooring unit is a system that is placed on the quayside to ensure the safety of vessels alongside and mitigate the severity of long-wave effects on vessels. The units assist with stabilising vessels alongside during strong winds, adverse weather conditions and high swells. The benefits also include minimized down-time and safety during operations.

“The new mooring units increases TNPA’s capacity to prevent excessive surge motions of vessels alongside, bringing the total number of units to six at the Port of Cape Town and four at the Port of Ngqura.

“TNPA has procured 52 shore tension units with an allocation of 16 units for the Port of Cape Town, 14 for the Port of Durban, eight for the Port of Port Elizabeth, six for the Port of Ngqura, four for the Port of Saldanha and four for the Port of Richards Bay. The phased delivery of the rest of the units will be completed by early 2025,” TNPA said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 11:30

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Da Prince Musik and Mduduzi Prince Released A Modern EP “Sebenza”

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Mduduzi Prince Magagula is an artist from Richards Bay, born in 1993 In The Province Of KwaZulu Natal In Pongola. He is an artist, producer and songwriter, and under the name ‘Da Prince Musik’ And Mduduzi Prince he has delivered an impressive catalog of work. With his vision and creative skill, Mduduzi Prince is an …

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