SA News

15 July 2024

New Police Minister outlines priorities

Location: News

New Police Minister outlines priorities

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says the seventh administration will act decisively to bring the high level of crime in the country, under control.

“It is our view and understanding that tough measures may need to be taken to reduce crime where necessary,” Mchunu said, addressing the media in Pretoria on Monday on the Ministry’s priorities, following the establishment of the Government of National Unity after the General Elections.

“We are honoured and humbled to have been given the enormous responsibility of ensuring that South Africans are safe and feel safer.

“We have spent the first week in office meeting with the executive management, provincial commissioners and divisional heads of the South African Police Service. We have done this to ensure that we have a broad understanding of the portfolio, including the challenges and opportunities, so that we can map out the priorities and urgent tasks at hand,” said the Minister.

He said he had benefited from briefings from the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) and the Civilian Secretariat for the Police Service as well as various organisations and institutions within the security arena.

“The crime levels in the country are on the increase and are intolerable. We need to act decisively and bring this under control.

“The levels and type of crime differ from one province to the other. We need to take this into account as we implement the integrated National Crime Prevention Strategy,” said the Minister.

Currently, the leading crimes in the country are contact crimes such as murders and rape, as well as hijackings and kidnappings for ransom payments.

“The killing of women and children also continues to be cause for serious concern and warrants intensive action from law enforcement. Our mission is clear - our country must be safe for all citizens. People all over South Africa must be able to move around at any time without fear of marauding criminals.

“Gang violence is also on the rise, noticeably in the Western Cape. The situation must be brought under control so that children in the Cape Flats, Khayelitsha (Site C), parts of Nelson Mandela Bay and parts of Gauteng can be able to play in the streets without fear of being hit by stray bullets,” he said.

Mchunu said as the police, they take the issue of “construction mafias” in the country very seriously.

“This trend is associated with destructive activities which disrupt construction and infrastructure development which our country urgently requires.

“Genuine quests for economic transformation can be handled through the correct channels and by using existing policy prescripts, without resorting to hijacking construction sites and using extortion to source business. This matter will continue to receive priority attention,” the Minister said.

Police will prioritise the amendments to the South African Police Service Act as it is outdated, still making incorrect references to the 1993 Interim Constitution.

“It needs to be in line with modern day crime fighting and prevention demands. We will also finalise the National Policy on Policing. It must take into account provincial needs and priorities,” Mchunu said.

He said there was an urgent need to professionalise the SAPS and instill positive ethical values, patriotism and the understanding that the primary duty of a police officer is to always serve and protect the public.

“Uprooting corruption and removing corrupt police officers from SAPS will remain a top priority. Misconduct by SAPS members will not be tolerated and action will be taken.

“We want to change the negative perceptions of our police officers. People must respect police officers; have confidence in them and feel safe in their midst. Professionalism in the work of police is also part of the police protection mechanism.

“Our police officers need to work in a conducive environment. We are committed to ensuring that our police stations are well-resourced. We have to provide the necessary tools and vehicles to serve our communities effectively,” he said.

According to Mchunu, over the past two years, over 20 000 new police officers have been trained.

“We will strive to continue bolstering capacity and to enhance police training. A police officer must attend regular refresher courses to stay operationally ready. We will also strengthen some existing units within the police force,” he said.

With regard to the use of technology in the police service, Mchunu said the integration of technology in police services is crucial for enhancing the efficiency, effectiveness and overall capability of law enforcement.

“We will prioritise the roll out of new technologies to detect and deter crimes. Advanced technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, surveillance systems, and digital communication tools enable police to better predict, prevent, and respond to criminal activities.

“These tools provide officers with real-time information, improve decision-making, and facilitate faster, more accurate investigations. Technology also enhances transparency and accountability and fosters greater public trust.

“We will benchmark against other successful law enforcement agencies worldwide and endeavour to bring SAPS on par with the best in terms of technology and operational efficiency,” Mchunu said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:06

614 views

15 July 2024

Motorist faces charges of bribery

Location: News

Motorist faces charges of bribery

A motorist arrested by the National Traffic Anti-Corruption Unit (NTACU) for attempted bribery is expected to appear in court today on charges of corruption.

The suspect was arrested during a multidisciplinary operation on Saturday in Brooklyn.

The motorist, who is allegedly an illegal immigrant, offered a police officer a bribe of R300 in an effort to avoid detention. The officer refused the bribe and immediately alerted NTACU, who swiftly arrested the suspect.

“The suspect was stopped at a roadblock in the Brooklyn district, conducted jointly by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the National Traffic Police (NTP) and Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP). Upon inspection, the motorist was found without a valid passport and other necessary documents,” the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said in a statement.

Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspected acts of fraud, corruption or malfeasance to ntacu@rtmc.co.za or via WhatsApp at 083 293 7989. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:15

442 views

15 July 2024

South Africa will decarbonise at a pace affordable to the economy

Location: News

South Africa will decarbonise at a pace affordable to the economy

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated that South Africa will decarbonise at a pace and scale that is affordable to the economy and society.

“If we act too fast, we risk damaging huge sections of our economy before we have built alternative energy and industrial capabilities. At the same time, not acting now risks our economic stability,” President Ramaphosa said on Monday.

The President was speaking at the Climate Resilience Symposium, which is underway at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) International Convention Centre, in Pretoria.

READ | Climate resilience tops agenda at symposium

Held under the theme, 'Moving the needle on climate change and just transition: The role of the National Treasury', the three-day symposium, taking place from 15 - 17 July 2024, aims to integrate climate goals into macro-fiscal and finance policy.

It also aims to improve government coordination by mainstreaming climate change considerations into the intergovernmental fiscal system, amongst others.

In his address, President Ramaphosa stressed the importance of strengthening systems for adaptation and mitigation, building resilience in communities, and accelerating the decarbonisation efforts and the pace of the just energy transition.

“The reality we must confront is that the carbon-intensity of our economy is unsustainable and for decades our reliance on coal was a competitive advantage because it allowed us to produce electricity cheaply, but the world has changed and this dependency has come to pose significant risks,” President Ramaphosa said.

WATCH |

As the world moves towards greener economies, the country’s trading partners, the President said, will take measures to ensure that their own climate actions do not undermine their economies.

He said instruments like the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which has the potential to cause great damage to developing economies, signal the inevitability of carbon pricing in global trade systems.

He said the country’s emissions-intensive energy system is likely to increasingly undermine its competitiveness in global markets.

Safeguarding the nation

President Ramaphosa called on South Africa to embrace a managed transition to a low-carbon economy, not only to safeguard its people and environment, but to ensure the country’s economic resilience and growth.

He warned that the country is facing a climate emergency, and indecision and slow action are not an option.

“We must act decisively and swiftly to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure a just transition for all South Africans. We must pursue a green industrial agenda that will create jobs and grow the economy.

“Investments in green infrastructure, renewable energy and climate adaptation measures can be costly, requiring careful financial planning and prioritisation. That is why we have prioritised inclusive growth,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President said government is hard at work implementing the urgent reforms needed to lift growth and pursuing a fiscal strategy that protects the sustainability of public finances.

He noted that Operation Vulindlela has been an extremely successful partnership between National Treasury, the Presidency and a wide range of government departments.

“It has enabled significant reforms in areas like energy, water, telecommunications, and transport, making our economy more competitive and increasing our productive capacity.

“Our strategy involves preparing ourselves to withstand the economic risks posed by climate change while taking full advantage of the opportunities of the energy transition. This is no easy balance,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:18

588 views

15 July 2024

South Africa aims for zero emissions by 2050

Location: News

South Africa aims for zero emissions by 2050

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa aims to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Speaking at the Climate Resilience Symposium underway at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) International Convention Centre in Pretoria, President Ramaphosa said the revised Nationally Determined Contribution balances the country’s developmental needs and economic realities.

“It takes into account the feasibility of undertaking a climate response through a set of just transition pathways. Importantly, it notes carbon tax as a vital component of our mitigation strategy to lower greenhouse gas emissions,” President Ramaphosa said.

By internalising the cost of carbon emissions, the President said the carbon tax incentivises companies to reduce their carbon footprint and invest in cleaner technologies, and also generates revenue for climate initiatives.

The President said these funds can be reinvested in renewable energy projects, energy efficiency programmes and social support mechanisms.

Government has launched a number of other initiatives to meet the country’s emissions targets, and these include the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, which has been successful, attracting over R209 billion in investment and adding much-needed capacity to the electricity grid.

President Ramaphosa said the Integrated Resource Plan, which outlines the country’s energy mix, is in the process of being updated.

The plan sets out a viable energy mix over the medium- and long-term to achieve the decarbonisation objectives.

WATCH | Climate Resilience Symposium

Just transition

The President said the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan sets out a quantified investment plan of some $98 billion, noting this will drive huge investments in the electricity grid, green hydrogen, electric vehicles, economic diversification, and skills development, amongst others.

“We continue to explore opportunities to meet our emissions reduction targets in minerals extraction, in green hydrogen production, in new power infrastructure, in electric vehicle manufacturing, and economic infrastructure upgrades.

“It is crucial that the transition to a low-carbon economy is just and inclusive and that no worker or community is left behind. The growth of clean tech, renewable energy, battery storage, green hydrogen and minerals for the future low-carbon economy must result in opportunities for affected sectors, employees, and communities,” the President said.

READ | Cabinet approves Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan

The President also noted that government is investing in retraining programmes, creating new job opportunities in renewable energy, and supporting small enterprises in affected areas.

The President further underscored a need for substantial investments to build sustainable infrastructure, develop green technologies and support social programmes.

Moreover, he noted the substantial gap between available disaster funds and the cost of disaster response.

“Even as we have taken proactive measures like setting up a Climate Change Response Fund, we need to think seriously about the urgent financial and policy measures needed to address these shocks, and how to strengthen the National Treasury’s disaster financing response,” the President said.

He said the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is already working with the Presidential Climate Commission on recommendations for the Climate Change Response Fund, and an Adaptation and Resilience Investment Plan to accompany it.

The President called on international partners to fulfil their commitments to finance both, noting that mitigation and adaptation financing remains a challenge.

While acknowledging the positive steps taken with the establishment of the Green Climate Fund, including the Loss and Damage Fund, and other global mechanisms, President Ramaphosa emphasised a need for more innovative financing solutions that mobilise private capital and incentivise sustainable practices.

READ | Climate Loss and Damage Fund to be established for developing countries

“The National Treasury’s Climate Finance Strategy is pivotal in this regard, outlining how we can leverage public and private finance to achieve our climate goals.

“We must not underestimate the importance of our own domestic capital and financial markets to innovatively mobilise and deploy capital towards our just transition,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President announced that the Just Energy Transition Funding Platform will be launched in the next few months.

The funding platform will be an important precursor to a broader Just Transition Financing Mechanism, proposals for which are being developed by the Presidential Climate Commission.

“We call on South African business to invest in the projects needed for a successful just transition in this country. We need to use blended finance to unlock private sector flows,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:47

594 views

15 July 2024

Transport department, taxi industry to work together this term, says Creecy

Location: News

Transport department, taxi industry to work together this term, says Creecy

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has committed to working with the taxi industry to ensure that the industry fulfils its role in the transport ecosystem with greater safety.

“Taxis are part of community life, and as per the National Household Travel Survey, now carry eighty 3% of those who use public transport.

“During this term, I pledge to work with the industry to ensure it takes its place in a safer, greener transport ecosystem. We will work together to decrease levels of conflict and violence, which pose a significant risk to the sector and to commuters,” the Minister said when tabling the Budget Vote of the department at Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Transport in Cape Town on Monday.

Creecy said the department will, in the short-term, continue to assist the industry to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Taxi Relief Fund, created by the department to mitigate the negative financial effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the taxi industry, has been extended in the past year to provide further support to the industry.

“The Taxi Recapitalisation Strategy continues to deal with the scrapping of unroadworthy vehicles, but also aims to regularise and professionalise the industry by improving safety and incorporating the industry in transport planning processes,” she said.

Climate resilience

The Minister said as the department continues to “stabilise and optimise our existing transport sector”, new risks and opportunities continue to arise.

“Climate change, as we have seen over the last couple of years, poses a significant risk to our built infrastructure in general and our transport infrastructure in particular. Building the climate resilience of our ports, road and rail networks is both a necessity and a new opportunity for investment, growth, economic inclusion and job creation.

“Contributing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in all modes of transport will become a necessity once the new Climate Bill is signed into law. Our transport sector is responsible for approximately one tenth of our country’s CO2 emissions, and we will have to do our bit to achieve the NDP target of net-zero by 2050,” she said.

In this regard, the Minister said, implementing the department’s Green Transport Strategy “will be a priority” in this term.

“In this next decade, transport will also be revolutionised by an acceleration of digital technology. New technologies and new global imperatives will fundamentally alter the skills requirements of those employed in the transport sector, as well as open up new value chains for new forms of economic access, ownership and employment.

“Such innovations include operational automation and real-time tracking of shipments to assist in port management, digital signalling to modernise the management of our railway systems, the use of artificial intelligence in traffic management, and the introduction of self-driven vehicles and drones for delivery.

“The department’s Green Transport Strategy includes investing in green energy infrastructure; promoting the uptake of alternative fuels such as biogas and green hydrogen; extending the rail network to provide alternative public transport, and developing ‘green procurement guidelines’, which will promote low-carbon technologies,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 14:20

302 views

15 July 2024

Government committed to resolving challenges in transport industry

Location: News

Government committed to resolving challenges in transport industry

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy says although the transport sector faces challenges, the department remains committed to fulfil its mandate to the people of South Africa.

“Given the current status of the transport sector, my first task in this 7th Administration is to stabilise the transport system in our country and make our department fit to fulfil its policy-making and regulatory role,” the Minister said when tabling the department’s Budget Vote at Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Transport on Monday.

Challenges in the department

Creecy said the department has become “disconnected” from its vision to lead the development of efficient and integrated transport systems.

“[Today], we would all agree that an efficient and functioning transport sector that moves people and goods safely, speedily and affordably across the length and breadth of our country is the key to a successful economy.

“In recent times, there has been a disconnect between this vision and the realities of our transport system and our national Transport Department. Our sector is not operating as either an effective economic facilitator or as a much-needed social service,” she said.

Furthermore, she noted that the department has faced myriad challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic that affected the freight system, with long delays in the “movement of key bulk minerals, containers and vehicles”.

“Dysfunctional port terminals resulted in long waiting times for ships wishing to berth, as well as congestion at strategic border crossings and key national highway corridors. Our freight rail system was characterised by maintenance backlogs, cable theft, and skills shortages.

“Our road systems deteriorated throughout the country and many provinces failed to execute maintenance and new build programmes, resulting in unspent funds being returned to National Treasury,” she said.

Creecy said the establishment of the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC) was a response to meet the scale of the crisis is critical.

“The NLCC has three distinct objectives: improving operational performance of industry supply chains, including freight rail and ports; implementing reforms to modernise the freight transport system for efficiency and competitiveness, and necessary regulatory change or exemptions to enable efficient procurement and adequate funding for network maintenance,” she said.

Turning to the work of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), the Minister said despite facing challenges of infrastructure damage and cable theft, the agency continues to reopen passenger rail lines, with 28 of 40 priority lines being fully operational.

“As of March this year, 256 stations are fully functional in cities across the country.

“Continuous work is being done to rehabilitate and open more strategic commuter corridors. This will ensure that the public can rely on safe, secure, punctual, and affordable public rail services that will not hinder their participation in the economy,” she said.

Stabilising the department

Creecy told the committee that a key priority for this financial year is stabilising and improving “governance of the department and its entities”, with critical vacancies to be assessed and filled.

“The efficacy of the department’s entities in fulfilling their stated mandates will also be assessed, and reforms such as addressing adverse audit findings and the timeous payment of outstanding invoices will be implemented.

“Immediate attention will be given to the critical issue of underspending by both departmental entities and Provincial Departments on finances allocated for road maintenance and road construction. In a country where citizens must daily navigate the hazards of potholes, it is unconscionable that we are returning money to National Treasury,” she insisted. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 14:22

279 views

15 July 2024

Hero’s welcome for SA’s tennis star

Location: News

Hero's welcome for SA's tennis star

A hero's welcome awaited South African wheelchair tennis champion Kgothatso Montjane as she beamingly made her arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, on Monday morning.

Excitement, loud cheers, the flashing lights of cameras and hearty clapping was the order of the winter morning as the sportswoman emerged into the terminal, after her splendid showing at Wimbledon over the weekend.

Montjane and her Japanese partner Yui Kamiji bagged their third Grand Slam title together on Sunday.

The number one seeds defeated Dutch duo, Diede De Groot and Jiske Griffioen 6-4, 6-4, to secure the Wimbledon Ladies' Wheelchair Doubles title in London, United Kingdom.

READ | President Ramaphosa congratulates tennis star Kgothatso Montjane

She told journalists that her victory has not sunk in yet, especially after the duo was named silver finalists last year.

“I’m still digesting it - but I’m sure it will sink in. This is just a great feeling,” she told journalists as she beamed from ear to ear.

According to the newly crowned champion, the matches are gruelling and require professionalism to play at this level.

“We try to fight as a team. We wanted to win this one considering our performance last year. After that match last year, we felt we needed to give it our best. We felt we lacked strategy. So, you can imagine how badly we wanted it.

“That’s why we needed to put our differences aside and put our heads together and fight together as a team.”

Montjane had her left leg amputated at age 12 due to a congenital disorder.

She described yesterday’s win as a confidence booster as she prepares for the Paralympic Games in August in Paris.

“I feel like I really needed this. I’ve been having ups and downs throughout the year and my ranking going through ups and downs, and not being sure where I am.

“This one really gives me a great feeling that I can go to the Games to deliver,” she said.

Montjane, who first picked up the racket at the age of 19, thanked her team for motivating her.

“I’m having so many blows and they’re the ones who try to keep me motivated so that I keep my head down and continue to work hard. I keep saying I’m winning the wrong Slam but it’s still a great achievement. The plan is still to win the Singles title.”

The 38-year-old believes that she is closer to winning the singles and that all she needs to do is to put her head down and keep working hard towards her goal.

In 2018, the athlete became the first black South African woman to compete at Wimbledon, and she reached the championships' singles and doubles finals for the first time.

“To the young ones, they must keep believing and working hard. Their dreams are valid and they must believe in the world of possibility. Their turn will come,” Montjane said.

Limpopo's MEC for Sport, Arts, and Culture, Jerry Maseko, was also present at the airport to welcome Montjane.

The MEC told SAnews that he and the provincial leadership were excited and proud of the athlete.

“The Premier and I were both excited. She directed me to come receive this jewel, this diamond from Limpopo, from a rural township of Seshego.”

READ | Tennis superstar Kgothatso Montjane inspires hope

Maseko took the time to express gratitude to the star for her dedication and the consistency she demonstrated from the grassroots to the professional level.

He also paid tribute to Montjane’s many sponsors and said he was rallying the private sector to construct a tennis court that will be named after the champ.

“It’s important to us to honour the living legend. We shouldn’t honour people when they have passed on. We must appreciate them while they’re still alive.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 14:44

246 views

15 July 2024

Mchunu sets sights on stronger, trusted police force

Location: News

Mchunu sets sights on stronger, trusted police force

By Sinovuyo Mfiki

South Africa's new Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has outlined a bold agenda aimed at improving the country's law enforcement agencies.

Mchunu addressed the media in Pretoria on Monday on the Ministry’s priorities, following the establishment of the Government of National Unity after the General Elections.

Vowing to tackle crime, restore public trust and improve the effectiveness of the police force, the Minister said he was honoured and humbled to have been given the “enormous responsibility” of ensuring that South Africans are safe and feel safer.

Mchunu said he would implement careful measures to reduce corruption within the ranks of the police and ensure strict faithfulness to ethical standards and accountability mechanisms.

“The crime levels in the country are on the increase and are intolerable. We need to act decisively and bring this under control.

“This scenario also requires that we think about what management system is needed overall within the police service, which will enable us to respond effectively to the serious challenge we face. It is our view and understanding that tough measures may need to be taken to reduce crime where necessary.”

He said central to the strategy is the urgent need to professionalise the SAPS and instil positive ethical values, patriotism and the understanding that the primary duty of a police officer is to always serve and protect the public.

“Uprooting corruption and removing corrupt police officers from SAPS will remain a top priority. Misconduct by SAPS members will not be tolerated and action will be taken.

“We want to change the negative perceptions of our police officers. People must respect police officers, have confidence in them and feel safe in their midst. Professionalism in the work of police is also part of police protection mechanism,” said the Minister.

Mchunu said in order to do their work police officers need to work in a conducive environment.

The department was committed to ensuring that police stations are well-resourced and have the necessary tools and vehicles to serve communities effectively.

“Police officer must attend regular refresher courses to stay operationally ready. We will also strengthen some existing units within the police force.”

Mchunu said there were plans to update the South African Police Service Act and finalise the National Policy on Policing.

The integration of technologies in police services, Mchunu said, is crucial to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness and overall capability of law enforcement.

“Advanced technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, surveillance systems, and digital communication tools enable police to better predict, prevent, and respond to criminal activities,” said the Minister.

He explained that these tools provide officers with real-time information, improve decision-making, and facilitate faster, more accurate investigations.

“Technology also enhances transparency and accountability and fosters greater public trust. We will benchmark against other successful law enforcement agencies worldwide and endeavour to bring SAPS on par with the best in terms of technology and operational efficiency.” – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 15:30

158 views

15 July 2024

A busy week ahead in Parliament

Location: News

A busy week ahead in Parliament

Parliament is expected to be abuzz with activity this week as the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) draws closer and Budget Vote Speeches and Parliamentary Committee meetings continue.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the OPA on Thursday during a joint sitting of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

“According to the new Joint Rules of Parliament, the OPA is now distinct from the State of the Nation Address (SONA). The SONA is held annually in February to outline the government's plans and priorities for the year and report on the state of the nation.

“The OPA, on the other hand, occurs once every five years, after elections, to announce the new administration's plans and to mark the beginning of the new five-year parliamentary term.

“The OPA coincides with Nelson Mandela International Day - an annual global celebration on 18 July to honour the life and legacy of former President Nelson Mandela by emulating his exemplary and selfless service to humanity,” Parliament said in a statement.

Following that address, the two Houses are expected to hold a joint sitting on Friday to debate the OPA.

However, preceding both the address and subsequent debate will be a media briefing by Parliament’s Presiding Officers, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly Thoko Didiza and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane.

Parliament’s other business

According to the statement, tomorrow (Tuesday) the NCOP’s programming committee will meet to “consider the draft parliamentary programme, reports and bills before the House”.

That meeting will commence at 9.15am.

“Meanwhile, the NCOP will have plenary sittings on Tuesday and Wednesday for four policy debates on Budget Votes and to consider legislation before the House, motions and various committee reports.

“The hybrid plenary on Tuesday will hold debates on Budget Vote 3 (Cooperative Governance) and Budget Vote 41 (Water and Sanitation). On Wednesday, the House will have policy debates on Budget Vote 5 (Home Affairs) and Budget Vote 18 (Health),” the statement said.

Parliamentary committees are also expected to meet this week.

“With the parliamentary committee structures now established and chairpersons elected, the committees of the two Houses have scheduled 13 committee meetings for this week. These committees will get briefings from ministers and consider and adopt the draft reports on the Budget Votes.

“The Standing Committee on Appropriations will have virtual public hearings on the Appropriations Bill on Friday,” the statement concluded.

The list of committee meetings are available at www.parliament.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:48

151 views

15 July 2024

SARS to provide update of Tax Season 2024

Location: News

SARS to provide update of Tax Season 2024

Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Edward Kieswetter, is expected to hold a media briefing to provide an update on the Tax Filing Season 2024.

The briefing is expected to be held on Tuesday, 16 July.

“Today marks the continuation of the Tax Filing Season 2024 for provisional and non-provisional taxpayers, who were not selected for Auto Assessments (AA), which commenced on 1 July 2024.

“The AA accommodated approximately 4.8 million taxpayers this year, compared to about 3.8 million taxpayers last year. SARS has also increased the number of digital platforms available to taxpayers to interact with SARS to facilitate a smooth and seamless filing season,” SARS said in a statement.

SARS said it has made progress thus far.

“The Commissioner has expressed his enthusiasm at it being the fourth year of SARS’s commitment to its five-year strategic plan, initiated in 2020, and is proud to acknowledge the progress the organisation has made thus far.

“Part of SARS’s strategic plan is to cultivate a culture of voluntary tax compliance, underpinned by nine strategic objectives that guides the work we do,” SARS said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 13:03

143 views

15 July 2024

Government activities for the week 15 – 19 July 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 15 – 19 July 2024

On Monday, 15 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the opening session of the National Treasury Climate Resilience Symposium 2024.

The symposium is being hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of partner organisations.

On Monday, 15 July, the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, briefs media on the ministry’s priorities in the seventh administration at the GCIS head office in Pretoria.

On Tuesday, 16 July, the Climate Resilience Symposium 2024 – hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of organisations – continues.

On Tuesday, 16 July, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson will deliver the keynote address at the 2024 Infrastructure Africa Business Forum at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

On Wednesday, 17 July, the Climate Resilience Symposium 2024 – hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of organisations – concludes.

On Thursday, 18 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa will open Parliament in a joint sitting (official Opening of Parliament). 18 July also marks Nelson Mandela International Day in honour of South Africa’s first democratically elected President.

Matona
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 11:26

170 views

15 July 2024

Tennis superstar Kgothatso Montjane inspires hope

Location: News

Tennis superstar Kgothatso Montjane inspires hope

Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, has extended her congratulations to Kgothatso Montjane and her playing partner, Yui Kamiji from Japan, on their remarkable victory at the Wimbledon Ladies' Wheelchair Doubles in London.

The dynamic duo triumphed over the formidable Dutch pair, Diede De Groot and Aniek van Koot, with a decisive 6-4, 6-4 win. This outstanding achievement marks Montjane's third overall doubles Grand Slam title and her first Wimbledon title.

READ | President Ramaphosa congratulates tennis star Kgothatso Montjane

“At 36 years old, Montjane is a true daughter of the soil, hailing from Seshego, on the outskirts of Polokwane,” said Ramathuba.

Montjane is currently ranked Number 1 in South Africa in the women's disabled division, and has earned numerous accolades both locally and internationally, solidifying her status as an inspiring sports icon.

"We extend our congratulations and overwhelming joy on your remarkable achievement of winning the Ladies' Doubles Wheelchair Wimbledon title. Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have paid off, showcasing your exceptional talent and skill.

“You have made us all proud. We hope this achievement will inspire other young girls, especially from our rural areas, to believe that the sky is the limit.

“Montjane's success serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that with determination and resilience, anything is possible," said Ramathuba. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 11:10

117 views

14 July 2024

President Ramaphosa wishes former US President Trump a speedy recovery

Location: News

President Ramaphosa wishes former US President Trump a speedy recovery

President Cyril Ramaphosa has denounced the alleged assassination attempt on former United States President Donald Trump.

Trump, who is running for re-election as President, was injured in the ear while he was delivering a speech during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday.

At least one person has died and two others were injured during the shooting.

The alleged shooter – who fired multiple shots towards the stage – was killed by US Secret Service personnel.

“The attempted assassination of former President Donald J. Trump is a stark reminder of the dangers of political extremism and intolerance. Political violence is the antithesis of democracy. I wish former President Trump a speedy recovery.

“We unequivocally denounce this political violence and earnestly hope that the citizens and leaders of America will have the fortitude and sagacity to reject violence and seek peaceful solutions,” President Ramaphosa said on social media platform, X. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 07/14/2024 - 13:41

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14 July 2024

Government continues to assist those affected by Western Cape floods

Location: News

Government continues to assist those affected by Western Cape floods

Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, says government has been hard at work to relocate the families affected by the devastating floods in the Western Cape this week.

Thousands of people in the province have been rendered homeless after flooding destroyed their homes.

“We’ve been able to relocate families into a building that, as government, we have leased for 30 days while we are finding a solution in terms of the informal settlement because they have submerged, whether the rain will come down and we move them back or we have to find an alternative land where we relocate them,” she said.

The Minister added, however, that finding suitable land was proving elusive.

“The challenge in the City of Cape Town is land availability and the requirements we have to follow in terms of our processes of approvals for land use.

“So currently those that were affected in terms of their buildings, formal structures, the assessment has been done by the [National Home Builders Registration Council]. We have received the first report. We are hoping that by Monday, we would have that intervention as fixing those houses by our service providers that we have been able to appoint.

“The materials for the informal settlements are starting to be delivered,” Kubayi said.

Meanwhile, the Western Cape provincial government said it has given the green light for some households in Newton in the Drakenstein Municipality to return home.

This after 900 households in the area were evacuated when it was established that a dam wall in the area was at risk of failure due to the severe flooding.

“Working in consultation with the Department of Water and Sanitation and a dam engineering specialist, Drakenstein Municipality’s Engineering Services Department performed another onsite inspection this morning of the farm dam above Newton and confirmed that the risk of dam wall failure has been mitigated.

“This decision was taken in light of the fact that the water level of 150 000-cubic-meter dam in the Bo-Dal area dropped slightly since last night, as well as the lighter rainfall predicted for today.

“According to the authorities, the dam should be able to handle the flow of water that is expected to reach it today.

“The municipality will keep on monitoring the dam closely and notify residents immediately should the situation change,” the Western Cape government said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 07/14/2024 - 13:54

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14 July 2024

Small Business Development Department ‘up to the task’

Location: News

Small Business Development Department 'up to the task'

Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams says the department she leads is “up to the task” of unlocking the potential of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) in the country.

The Minister said this when she delivered the department’s Budget Vote in Cape Town on Friday.

“One of the main contributing factors to the low [economic] growth is that too many of our citizens are unable to participate in productive economic activities.

“So in addition to championing reforms that will address energy supply constraints, logistics and crime - which are the focus of Operation Vulindlela - we must also direct our energies to reforms that unlock the potential of SMMEs and the cooperative sector.

“This must be the core priority of the seventh administration, and one for which we bear responsibility as the Department of Small Business Development portfolio. [We] want to assure all members and society that even though we are young and still developing, we are up to the tasks that lie before us,” she said.

The department has been allocated a budget of some R2.437 billion.

Priority areas for market access

The Minister said the department is focussing on five areas related to market access and localisation, which have proven to be barriers for SMMEs.

“Firstly, we will support 200 SMMEs through our Small Business Exporter’s Development Programme to participate in ten trade events in the 2024/25 financial year. In this regard, R20 million has been allocated to exploit our AFCFTA, BRICS partnerships and various global trade agreements.

“Second, we will enhance our Market Linkage Programme to ensure placement of SMME products in strategic warehouses of wholesalers and the shelves of retailers. Through our partnership with Proudly SA, we are developing an e-commerce platform that is likely to go live in the second of this financial year.

“Third, we are working with the public sector in order to exploit opportunities which will be presented by the Public Procurement Bill (once signed into law). We are working with corporates through Community of Practice to influence Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programmes and procurement of products from small enterprises and cooperatives,” she said.

Furthermore, there are plans to “actively building supplier capacity to meet and sustain the market requirements”.

“Here we provide quality improvement, product testing and certification, as well as productivity improvement through the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda).

“Through the Small Enterprise Manufacturing Support Programme (SEMP) at the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa) we have allocated an amount of R266.8 million which deepens the black industrialist programme and ensure more participation of small enterprise in the manufacturing sector.

“Fifth, priority is also given to new growth drivers with low barriers to entry. In this financial year (2024/25), we will focus on the energy sector and tech industry – while also implementing our Cannabis Support Programme that will look both at the industrial hemp value chain as well as how to mainstream small indigenous cannabis growers for lucrative markets,” Ndabeni-Abrahams said.

Financing small businesses and cooperatives

The Minister highlighted that financing “remains one of the key constraints for small businesses and cooperatives”.

In this regard, the department has developed an SMME and Co-operatives Funding Policy to expand access to financing and early stage investment.

“This policy will be a game changer as it also proposes an establishment Fund of Funds, which we are currently designing. The fund will de-risk and leverage investment from the private sector and institutional investors for start-ups amongst other things. We will also prioritise the development of a Startup Policy and legislation as required. This will be done in collaboration with relevant departments.

“We will also continue to build on the work we have already undertaken in the previous administration to invest more in under-served SMMEs and co-operatives.

“In this regard, Sefa disbursed R2 billion funding facilities against a target of R2.18 billion to 80 040 SMMEs and co-operatives which led to 98 378 jobs,” Ndabeni-Abrahams said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 07/14/2024 - 14:32

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14 July 2024

Nuclear power build will be at a scale “we can afford” – Minister Ramokgopa

Location: News

Nuclear power build will be at a scale "we can afford" - Minister Ramokgopa

Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says South Africa will seek to build a nuclear plant for electricity generation at “a scale and speed that we can afford”.

The Minister was speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Cabinet Lekgotla held in Tshwane at the weekend.

President Cyril Ramaphosa lead the first Lekgotla of the Government of National Unity (GNU), which set out the programme of action government will undertake during the seventh administration.

“In the long term, we need to ensure that we anchor the baseload and nuclear is an important part of that intervention. We are working on the framework for procurement because we don’t want to discredit the process through a procurement process that is not transparent.

“We will do it at the scale and speed that we can afford as a country,” he said.

Turning to issues of electricity affordability, the Minister raised his concern that poorer communities are battling to keep up with increasing costs.

“The poor and those that are located in the townships are finding it exceptionally difficult to afford the increases in electricity. The pricing and the tariff is prohibitive and a lot of our people across the length and breadth of the country are not in a position to afford electricity.

“Those are challenges on the distribution side…and we know that over a period of time municipalities have underinvested in the maintenance, replenishment and protection of the distribution grid and of course we are paying the price now,” he said.

Also speaking to media at the lekgotla, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau assured South Africans that affirmative action policies like Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment will not be scrapped during the seventh administration.

“These are foundational principles to the establishment of the Government of National Unity. Included in there are priorities in relation to social justice, equity and redress. Therefore, these are parties that have come together on the basis of collectively addressing transformation because we have committed to redress in the foundational principles.

“The question is what do we do going forward? Of course, we need to look at the next wave of [BBBEE]…where there are lessons to be learnt, we take those lessons into account and where there are greater opportunities to be introduced we need to be able to introduce those.

“We have placed this firmly on the agenda of the programmes that would be driven by this administration and that is why we always say we are focussing on industrialisation, but we are equally focussing on transformation,” he said.

The Minister emphasised that the economic growth and development of South Africa is a key priority.

A key priority for the seventh administration will be to “leverage off the back of Operation Vulindela as a key programme”.

“This would be a focus on network industries amongst others…looking at energy, looking at logistics in particular, the digital economy and other areas. The fact that we’ve made significant progress in that regard enables us to use that as a springboard to grow the economy focussed on industrialisation and re-industrialisation.

“But also, a deliberate and conscious focus on transformation because of course, this will enable us to broaden the base of entrepreneurs in the country [and] to broaden the base of participants in the economy of this country and enable us to grow the jobs that this country so much needs,” Tau said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 07/14/2024 - 13:52

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13 July 2024

First GNU Cabinet Lekgotla kicks off in Tshwane

Location: News

First GNU Cabinet Lekgotla kicks off in Tshwane

President Cyril Ramaphosa is leading the first Cabinet Lekgotla of the Government of National Unity (GNU) at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Tshwane this weekend.

The lekgotla is expected to set out the programme of action government will undertake during the seventh administration.

Attending the lekgotla are, among others, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Ministers and provincial Premiers.

Speaking to media on the sidelines of the all-important meeting, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the programme of action is guided by the priorities set out in the GNU’s Statement of Intent.

“That will allow us to then go back and consolidate what you know as the Medium Term Strategic Framework. Now we are calling it the Medium Term Development Plan.

“The set of actions are being guided by the priorities agreed by the parties to the GNU. In those nine priorities there is going to be a number of presentations that will say how we agree on this. And we are guided, as another filter, by the National Development Plan (NDP),” she said.

The priorities, in short, include:
•    Economic growth, job creation and transformation
•    Creating a more just society
•    Stabilising local government,
•    Investing in people through education, skills development and healthcare
•    Building state capacity
•    Strengthening law enforcement agencies
•    Strengthening the effectiveness of Parliament
•    Strengthening social cohesion, nation-building and democratic participation, and undertaking common programmes against racism, sexism, tribalism and other forms of intolerance
•    Foreign policy based on human rights, constitutionalism, the national interest, solidarity and peaceful resolution of conflicts

“[Some of the priorities] focus on economic growth, inclusive growth and job creation. We are looking at what we should do to unlock the economy to grow so that it can create jobs for the people of South Africa.

“We are focusing on what are the areas of reforms that will unlock the economy, the issues around water, electricity and energy. We’re dealing with the issues around job creation, what the economic growth trajectory look like.

“To do that we need a partnership with business. We need also a capable, ethical and developmental state to have that capacity,” she said.

The Minister explained that the lekgotla will further be guided by “evidence-based planning and action”.

“The Statistician General [Risenga Maluleke] is going to present in terms of the indicators that we are looking at and what that means in terms of the government programme.

“We’ve tabled the budget of Statistics SA to say we are starting to work on the indicators of how … to support the implementation of the District Development Model to be evidence based…and to strengthen our research capabilities to make sure that we move with speed to achieve the goals of the NDP,” she said.

Ntshavheni clarified that following the lekgotla, Cabinet – which includes Ministers and the President – will adopt the programme of action.

“It has to be adopted by Cabinet. Cabinet is the governing authority of South Africa so it will adopt it and [then] clusters will go and work on their priorities and initiatives. From there departments go and work.

“The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, during that period, will continue to work and make sure that there’s alignment across [departments] and everyone knows what they want to do.

“We are going to implement government priorities collectively because there’s no ‘DA minister’, there’s no ‘ANC minister’, there is only a ‘minister of government’.

“We are consolidating so that we have a single view and a single programme of action that is agreed to by all and that cascades to provinces,” she said.

President Ramaphosa will communicate the outcomes of the lekgotla during the opening of Parliament on 18 July. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sat, 07/13/2024 - 13:07

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13 July 2024

DIRCO faces critical staffing shortage due to budget cuts

Location: News

DIRCO faces critical staffing shortage due to budget cuts

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola says his department, which is facing a critical staff shortage, must do more with less due to resource constraints.

A critical challenge faced by the department, Lamola explained, is managing exchange rate volatility, which affects 60% of expenditures allocated to missions abroad.

The Minister was speaking during his Budget Vote Speech for the 2024/25 financial year, where he announced that the department had been allocated R6.57 billion, which dropped by 5% compared to the previous year.

“Strategic cost management in this area is essential to safeguarding our financial stability. Equally vital is addressing employee compensation, where the current ceiling set by the National Treasury requires careful consideration to maintain workforce morale and operational efficiency.”

According to the Minister, the department could only fill critical vacancies identified at the head office to remain within the baseline for employee compensation, which resulted in a “very high vacancy rate”.

He said that this hurts the department’s operations and service delivery.

“However, several line function posts were filled at the Assistant Director, Deputy Director and Director levels, mainly through internal promotions to address the lack of upward mobility,” he added.

The Minister also announced that the department cannot fill all the critical vacancies with the available funds, and operations continue to be negatively affected.

“The June 2024 mission posts placement process was also deferred due to the shortfall in the compensation of employees’ budget. Additional funding is thus required to cover the shortfall and fill other critical vacancies at the head office and missions abroad.”

This financial year, he stated that the department will improve its information and technology and property infrastructure portfolio to optimise resources.

“This strategic initiative aims to release more lease funds and redirect them towards operational needs. While these budget adjustments pose challenges, they also present opportunities for efficiency gains and prioritisation of essential expenditures.”

He informed Parliament that the department will soon be advertising a cadet programme and a youth development initiative, which he deems crucial to the national youth development imperative and the department’s future capacity requirements.

The department is also finalising its organisational structure review process to streamline the business units and processes and optimise scarce resources to leverage global economic opportunities in advancing the country’s national interest, he added.

“Our commitment to delivering quality services and fostering economic growth remains unwavering. This budget signifies our determination to balance fiscal prudence with the imperative to support our citizens and invest in our nation’s future.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 11:11

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12 July 2024

Government intervenes to assist families amid Cape Town heavy rains

Location: News

Government intervenes to assist families amid Cape Town heavy rains

At least 500 households, whose homes were destroyed by heavy rains in Cape Town, are being temporarily relocated to safer accommodations, as gale-force winds and heavy rains persist.

This comes after Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, visited the affected areas on Thursday.

Kubayi and Deputy Minister Tandi Mahambehlala led a Human Settlements delegation to assess progress of interventions for families in desperate need of shelter in the unrelenting cold and wet weather.

The Ministerial delegation visited various disaster-stricken areas in Khayelitsha, including Nkandla, Zami Mpilo, Kuyasa and Victoria Mxenge in the Western Cape.

Scores of people have been left temporarily homeless due to water-logged homes across the province as wet weather and flooding continues.

Kubayi said the department’s immediate intervention is to relocate families to be accommodated at the Western Cape School of Governance, where the department will enter into a lease agreement of 30 days.

Kubayi said the department must identify land in two weeks, adding that she has spoken to all the affected families, and they have agreed to move.

“Our concern is mainly that with a level 8 warning, it means the rain will continue and we do not want these communities to continue in this dire state where their shelters are submerged under water.

“We are moving them to a safe place at least for 30 days while we look at alternative land parcels where they can be permanently relocated to build a new life away from flood plains,” Kubayi said.

The Minister noted that the relocation for the community is not only in one ward but will expand to more areas currently in danger or Category C informal settlements [immediate relocation].

The Minister said the City of Town alone has over 800 informal settlements in danger zones, emphasising a need for a more proactive approach when dealing with disasters.

“We need to put preventative measures in place, and this work is ongoing. Moreover, I have instructed MECs in all nine provinces to also identify more of these Category-C informal settlements so that work can continue to mitigate imminent disasters,” Kubayi said.

As part of disaster intervention and mitigation measures, the department also provides the Informal Settlement Upgrading grant to provinces and municipalities. This entails the upgrading of informal settlements in-situ (developing the area where an informal settlement is located) by providing bulk infrastructure like storm water drainage to avert flooding.

Kubayi also underscored the need to put in place bulk infrastructure to mitigate against a situation where people are locked in water, noting that some areas they visited have no proper stormwater drainage system to absorb water during heavy rains.

The Minister also emphasised that the response to disasters requires all the affected government departments play their part in ensuring that the victims are attended to.

“This is because beyond the provision of shelter for the victims, there are other needs such as transport, protection of property (which in some cases gets stolen), food and other necessities,” she said.

Kubayi further acknowledged efforts by NGOs, including the Gift of the Givers, who continuously work with government during emergencies.

She assured that the teams will continue with work onsite throughout the weekend, assessing the structural integrity of damaged formal structures.

“The team from Human Settlements Emergency Housing, which includes the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC), has been on the ground since the disaster to provide the necessary support to those who have lost their informal structures in Monwabisi, New Monwabisi Park, and Kuyasa informal settlements, as well as to assess the damage caused to permanent structures,” Kubayi said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 11:36

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12 July 2024

Retrenchments in the platinum sector a cause for concern

Location: News

Retrenchments in the platinum sector a cause for concern

Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe says he is concerned about the recent retrenchments in the platinum sector.

“Whilst the mining sector employs 489 000 mineworkers, we have noted with concern the recent retrenchments specifically in the platinum sector. In response to these job losses, we have pulled our social partners together and are in discussions to craft an approach to minimise them,” Mantashe said, delivering the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy’s Budget Vote in Cape Town.

He said significant progress has been made by the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM) and National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC) who have formed partnerships with industry players to improve the state of infrastructure to support mining.

“The department is currently drafting amendments to the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Amendment Act (MPRDA) aimed at ensuring that areas that have been identified as weak and those that have been challenged legally are strengthened against international best practice.

“The amendments will also review the licensing regime to reduce red tape and improve the business environment for investors while keeping in sync with South Africa’s social and economic fabric,” Mantashe said.

He said the amendments are a continuation of the regulatory and policy adjustments initiated during the sixth administration.

“Given South Africa’s endowment with considerable mineral reserves of strategic significance to the global economies, we are convinced that increased exploration will enable the country to meaningfully benefit from its global advantage.

“To enable this the department, guided by the country’s exploration strategy, has in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) established an exploration fund to support emerging and junior miners,” Mantashe said.

Government intends to intensify engagements with several fund managers and the investor community to secure additional financing to sustain the fund into the future.

The department has allocated R72 million to fund artisanal and small-scale miners, including women and youth-owned companies.

Mantashe said the health and safety of mine workers remains at the centre of government’s work.“Owing to our strategic partnership with our social partners we have improved our performance towards the zero harm goal,” he said.

The Minister said this is demonstrable in the decline in mine fatalities, injuries and occupational diseases as evidenced by the 49 fatalities being the lowest on record in 2022.

“Although we had set our sights on beating this record in 2023, the regrettable disaster at the Impala Rustenburg that killed 13 mineworkers and many other fatal incidences contributed to the regression resulting in 53 fatalities reported in 2023.

“We have also noted with great concern the emerging trend of fatalities related to motor accidents and disasters involving illegal miners.

“To this end, the department has entered into an agreement with the industry on the development of minimum standards and guidelines to mitigate against road fatalities, while intensifying the fight against illegal mining,” the Minister said.

In the 2024/25 financial year, the department has been allocated at least R8.84 billion, of which R6.4 billion is earmarked for transfers to public entities, municipalities, and other institutions or implementing agents. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 12:19

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12 July 2024

Water and Sanitation allocated over R130 000 billion budget

Location: News

Water and Sanitation allocated over R130 000 billion budget

The Department of Water and Sanitation has been allocated an amount of R134.909 billion over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF).

Presenting the department’s Budget Vote in Parliament on Friday, Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Mojodima, said the budget includes allocations of R42.604 billion, R46.362 billion and R45.941 billion in the 2024/25, 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years respectively.

The department’s budget consists of two components, including the main account and water trading entity.

“On the main account, the department has been allocated R72.989 billion over the MTEF. This consists of allocations of R24.074 billion, R25.159 billion and R23.754 billion in 2024/25, 2025/26 and 2026/27 respectively.

“Included in the main account budget are conditional infrastructure grants for municipal water services totalling R36.305 billion over the MTEF. This includes R20.130 billion for the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant and R16.175 billion for the Water Services Infrastructure Grant,” Majodima explained.

She noted that the water trading entity is mostly funded through revenue collection from the sale of water, but also receives some transfers from the fiscus for infrastructure projects.

The water trading entity has been allocated R61.920 billion over the MTEF, including R18.530 billion, R21.202 billion and R22.187 billion in 2024/25, 2025/26 and 2026/27 respectively.

The department, said the Minister, will make every effort to ensure that the resources are deployed as efficiently as possible “to ensure that service delivery reaches our communities”.

The department will also continue to clear all the department’s historic incidents of unauthorised, irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure in collaboration with National Treasury and the law enforcement agencies.

The Minister committed the department to a zero tolerance to corruption and ensuring the promotion of good governance.

“In recent years, the department has successfully reduced its under-expenditure against its budget – in 2021/22 there was R2.5 billion under-expenditure (which equals to 14.3% of the budget), in 2022/23 there was R860 million under-expenditure (5% of the budget), and in 2023/24 there was R44 million under-expenditure (0.2% of the budget).

“It is our intention to eradicate under-expenditure altogether and achieve 100% expenditure of our budget in the current financial year. This will be done by making our infrastructure procurement processes more efficient and effective and by improving our management of allocations to projects during the financial year,” Majodima said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 14:10

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12 July 2024

Incentives for municipalities owing water bills

Location: News

Incentives for municipalities owing water bills

In a bid to address the water debt owed by municipalities, the Department of Water and Sanitation, including water boards, have strengthened and standardised debt collection processes and put in place incentives for municipalities to pay their water board bills.

Presenting the Water and Sanitation Budget Vote on Friday, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina said the municipal debts to the water boards increased to R21.3 billion by May 2024, posing a major risk to the financial sustainability of the whole water sector.

Majodina said this debt has forced the department to close down the Sedibeng Water Board in 2022 and transfer its functions, including assets and liabilities, to the Vaal Central and Magalies Water Boards.

“The debts owed by municipalities to Sedibeng Water had resulted in it no longer being able to service its own debts and to meet its operational expenditure requirements. However, the transfer of Sedibeng’s operations to the Vaal Central and Magalies Water Boards did not solve the underlying debt problem and the municipal debt continues to grow,” Majodina said.

While non-payment by municipalities poses a threat to the financial sustainability of all the water boards, Majodima said the department is particularly concerned about Magalies Water and Vaal Central Water, which are experiencing an increasing cash flow challenges due to non-payment.

“One of our immediate priorities will therefore be to work with our colleagues in Cabinet, particularly the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, to find a sustainable solution to this problem,” Majodina said.

While acknowledging that not all municipalities are falling behind on their payments, Majodima warned that non-payment by a few municipalities which are served by a particular water board can result in severe financial difficulties for that water board.

During the 2023/24 financial year, the National Government allocated R61.7 billion of water and sanitation-related grants to municipalities to enable the municipalities to address water and sanitation infrastructure backlogs and provide free basic water to the indigent.

Apart from these grants, the water services sector must be self-financing through revenues from the sale of water.

Available infrastructure for other economic activities

To ensure the department’s assets contribute towards the objectives of the Government of National Unity, Majodina said the department would be availing its infrastructure for other economic activities, including promoting tourism and recreation, and reducing the risk of load shedding through the use of dams for generation of hydropower.

The Minister noted that during the last financial year, the department issued an expression of interest to obtain access rights to state dams for tourism and recreation activities, with the aim of promoting economic development, particularly of communities adjacent to dams.

She said the expressions of interest received will be processed during the current financial year.

“In consultation with the Ministry of Energy and Electricity, the department has also issued requests for applications for interested parties to apply for water use authorisations to generate hydropower using water courses and the water resource infrastructure owned by the department.

“This process received interest from over 200 applicants, for generation of 2 845 Megawatts of electricity from the water courses. To date, the department has issued 40 authorisations for floating solar panels, and the remaining applications will be processed in the current financial year,” Majodina said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 14:37

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12 July 2024

Jump on the democracy bus

Location: News

Jump on the democracy bus

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in partnership with the South African National Roads Agency, has launched the Democracy Bus, which will travel the country to drum up citizens’ participation in celebration of the 30 years of democracy.

“[The] bus will travel to different parts of our amazing country from the nation’s towering cities to deep rural communities. Government calls on all South Africans to get on the bus so that they can see and experience the changes we have gone through as we relive the many pivotal moments in our democratic journey," Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni announced during the delivery of the Budget Vote of the GCIS to the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies on Friday.

“The bus is also expected to stop at the GCIS Thusong Service Centres which are earmarked as key activation sites. It will also stop at venues for community meetings, izimbizo and national events as well as dams, police stations, schools, clinics and hospitals built over the years as we celebrate our 30 years of democracy,” she said.

Spot the Bus

The Minister said citizens will be able to participate in a “spot the bus” campaign.

“As the bus travels on our roads, across all our provinces to 30 locations in various parts of our country, citizens will have the opportunity to be part of the spot the bus campaign. Citizens can keep a look out for information on the bus journey through a digital map that will be published on various social media platforms.

“This is the way GCIS is bringing South Africans to acknowledge the work that has been done over the last 30 years but also acknowledging the challenges that still lie ahead which government, through its new programmes of the seventh administration…will address the challenges that remain,” Ntshavheni said.

Crime

The Minister also said the GCIS was implementing a campaign that will seek to encourage communities and stakeholders to participate in the fight against crime.

She said the department has set the fight against crime as one of its communication priorities for this financial year.

“GCIS is implementing a crime management campaign which will target the areas of organised and violent crime, illegal mining, cable theft and vandalism of essential infrastructure along with the scourge of violence against women, children and vulnerable members of society.

“To strengthen stakeholder participation, the GCIS has established a directorate of stakeholder management and special projects to marshal all stakeholders in a common front against social ills. We have learnt during COVID-19 that the coordination of the work is more impactful in our communication space,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 14:44

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