SA News

29 May 2024

Commission for Gender Equality to observe general elections

Location: News

Commission for Gender Equality to observe general elections

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) says it will observe the National and Provincial Elections on Wednesday to ensure equal treatment and the protection of people’s gender rights at polling stations.

Chairperson of the Commission for Gender Equality, Advocate Nthabiseng Sepanya–Mogale, said the commission has been accredited by the Electoral Commission (IEC) to observe the elections throughout the country.

Sepaya-Mogale noted that in line with the provisions of section 187 of the Constitution as well as the CGE Act of 1996, the CGE has the responsibility to monitor and assess the actions of state and non-governmental institutions as part of its obligation to promote, protect and advance gender equality in South Africa.

Section 187 (2) of the South African Constitution grants the CGE the power, as regulated by national legislation, necessary to perform its functions, including the power to monitor, investigate, research, educate, lobby, advise and report on issues concerning gender equality.

“Considering this constitutional obligation, during its election observation, the CGE will employ a gendered analytical framework to determine the extent to which the elections are free and fair from any form of gender discrimination. A team of Commissioners and staff will be observing the elections in various polling stations in all the provinces.

“The team, as part of their role would want to ascertain if the elections are free, fair and transparent, especially free gender discrimination. In this regard a particular attention will be given to pregnant women, persons with disabilities, the aged and those with little babies,” Sepaya-Mogale said.

Wishing all electorates and candidates well, the chairperson said she trusts that South Africans will co-operate with CGE election observers “as we help deepen and strengthen democracy as per our constitutional mandate”. - SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 15:05

412 views

28 May 2024

Pretoria elderly man happy to cast his special vote on the last day

Location: News

Pretoria elderly man happy to cast his special vote on the last day

Caiphus Rampe, a pensioner from Orchards ext 21 in Arcasia, Pretoria North, was excited after casting his vote this afternoon, which is the last day for special votes.

Rampe is one of those who applied for a special vote. Special votes took place on Monday and continue today for qualifying voters.

For Rampe, casting his vote means a lot, including preparing a better life for all, and a better life for generations to come.

Asked why he applied for special vote, Rampe said he did not want to stand in long queues as he quickly gets tired.

READ | Eastern Cape voting stations operational for special votes

“I am [old] and I don’t have energy to queue with the young ones. I wanted to do it early and get done with voting,” Rampe said.

Asked about the 1994 experience, where millions of voters -- who were previously denied access to voting -- took to the polls for the first time, Rampe said this year’s elections are crucial to deciding a future for all South Africans, regardless of race or colour.

“As South Africans, we are one and we should learn to live together. This is our country. We must work hard to build a better future for our children and the generations to come,” he said.

Echoing the same sentiments, was Ditaelo Ranwedi, also from Orchards, who emphasized the importance of voting.

“Voting is our voice to say what we want and how it must be done. By voting, we have the power to appoint our representatives in Parliament and in the municipalities to represent us and ensure that there is service delivery in our communities,” Ranwedi said.

Ranwedi called on young people and everybody else to go out in their numbers to vote.

“This is the only way we can tell our government what we want and how it must be done,” he said.

Presiding Officer at the Wonderpark voting station at the community hall, Karabo Mtshweni, told SAnews that the station had 140 registered special votes.

“Most of the registered special votes are young people who mostly said they will be working on Wednesday and some said they had other engagements,” Mtshweni said.

Mtshweni said 80% of the registered voters had already cast their votes.

“The turnout yesterday was good compared to today. Today is very slow. We hope towards closing time, there will be more people coming,” she said.

Voting stations for special votes operate from 9am to 5pm.

According to the Electoral Commission, on the first day of special votes on Monday, an estimated 201 794 voting station visits of special votes were processed at 22 626 service points.

The Commission said a total of 624 593 voters will be visited by 62 000 officials from the Electoral Commission, accompanied by political party agents and observers where they are available. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 15:51

911 views

28 May 2024

Farmyards to restore healthy diets

Location: News

Farmyards to restore healthy diets

Gauteng Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment MEC, Mbali Hlophe, says the roll out of a farmyards initiative will help instill healthy diets in townships, hostels and informal settlements.

The farmyard is an innovative concept largely targeted at youth and women.

These beneficiaries receive repurposed containers that are converted into local stores for local farmers to sell their produce to their communities in an effort to instill a healthy diet among residents.

There are four farmyards in Gauteng’s townships with the necessary equipment and infrastructure as part government’s project to revitalise the township economy.

“This is about bringing back good health and nutrition to our townships. When you look at the stats in our disposal, they show that many people especially children are not eating nutritious meals required for their growth, on a daily basis. By bringing farmyard[s] closer to our people, we are making sure that people start paying attention to their health.

“We encourage beneficiaries of farmyards to ensure that they sell the kind of food that is required in a home meal, to provide nutrient rich crops like spinach, moringa, and additionally provide proteins through the live or frozen chickens they sell,” she said.

This initiative, the MEC said, is also a direct response to the province’s relentless fight to ensure the province is food secure.

“Food security is one of our elevated priorities and boasts a basket of services available to ensure the province is food secure, and with regards to farmyards, we have identified subsistence farmers as enablers to help the province become food secure in a sustainable manner,” the MEC explained.

The food security basket includes a variety of programmes including food distribution through the food banks, food parcels, Community Nutrition and Development Centres ( CNDCs) and NPOs as vehicles to ensure that the poor and vulnerable access sustainable, nutritious and safe food in a sustainable manner. This is in line with policy guidelines enshrined in the National Policy on Food Nutrition Security together with Household Food and Nutrition Security Strategy approved by Cabinet in 2013.

More importantly, the MEC indicated that while the initiative secures self-reliance and sustainable food security, it also responds to the joblessness challenge especially for the youth in the province.

One of the young persons that benefitted from the farmyards is 32-year old Simangele Sibande.

“The farmyard program provided me with a wonderful opportunity to create my own business to provide for my family and also show other young people that there are opportunities in agriculture.

"What is even more fulfilling is that I was able to employ two other young people to assist me in selling produce from local farmers in Zithobeni,” she said.

Hlophe noted that the project is gradually shifting the prevailing perceptions in the townships that agriculture is unattractive and associated with filth and frowned upon.

“A lot of people when they think agriculture, they think something far. But through the project, we have been able to show that agriculture is economically viable, and that as a department we remain committed to continue to facilitate access to markets,” the MEC said. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 16:09

344 views

28 May 2024

All systems go for 2024 Elections

Location: News

All systems go for 2024 Elections

With just hours left to go before voting day, the Electoral Commission is ready for the seventh National and Provincial Elections.

“Our clarion call to all South Africans is - let's go out in huge numbers and vindicate our democratic right to vote,” Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the Electoral Commission, Sy Mamabolo, said on Tuesday at a briefing in Midrand.

The commission applauded political parties and independent candidates for relatively peaceful campaigns, adding that the spirit of tolerance and forbearance must be taken on Election Day tomorrow.

“It is time now for all of us to work together to ensure that these elections are free, fair, safe, and that the outcome reflects the will of the South African electorate.”

Tuesday marked the second day of the casting of special votes at 22 626 voting stations and home visits over the past two days with 937 144 voters having been processed.

The commission said it would use the “lessons and experiences” over the last two days of special voting to further refine operations to positively impact on voter experience on Election Day.

“The commission urges all the remaining 26 million eligible voters to go out and cast their votes tomorrow.”

It reminded voters that its network of 23 292 voting stations will open for voting at 07h00 and close at 21h00.

“It is important to emphasise that eligible voters who will be at the voting station at 21h00 will be allowed to vote and not turned away.”

In addition, voters must vote where they are registered.

“The only exception to the general rule is that a voter may vote outside of their registered voting district only after notifying the CEO. Notifications in this regard closed on May 17. Approximately 360 000 voters have been approved to vote outside their voting districts.”

The commission reminded all eligible voters of the following:

Bring along valid South African identity document.
Each voter will be verified on the voters roll and marked with ink on the left thumb.
Each voter will receive three ballot papers: the national, regional, and provincial ballot papers. Voters are reminded to indicate their choices with one mark on each ballot (voters who have given pre-notification to vote at a voting stations outside the province in which they are registered will receive only the national ballot).
Each ballot paper will be validated with a stamp on the reverse.
All three ballots must be deposited in the ballot box at the voting station.
It is prohibited for a voter to take a photograph of their marked ballot paper. This arrangement is necessary to protect the secrecy of the choice of voters and to avoid voters being coerced or unduly induced into making political choices.

The commission called on registered voters to check the correctness of their voting station through the following channels:

By SMS ID number to 32810
Using voting station finder application on website
Contact centre on 080011800.
The IEC APP downloadable from Apple and Google app stores.

Load shedding

The commission said that load shedding is not expected on voting day.

“Furthermore, Eskom has given assurances that there are no plans for scheduled maintenance work or load shedding in the period around voting day.

“Instances of power outages must be reported to Eskom in the normal course to enable effective responses.”

Identity documents

For voters who may need identity documents, the Department of Home Affairs will operate all its offices between 07h00 to 21h00 to facilitate collection of identity documents and the issuance of temporary identification certificates.

The commission said it was confident that all preparations are in place for free, fair elections.

“A key aspect of our preparations included engaging with various stakeholders which includes political parties, independent candidates, the media, security and government structures at all levels, civil society organizations, community organizations, and the voters of South Africa. A number of state entities and municipalities are supporting the logistics of elections.” -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 20:22

284 views

28 May 2024

Special voting concludes

Location: News

Special voting concludes

A total 937 144 voters cast special votes over the course of the last two days, the Electoral Commission said on Tuesday.

“The Electoral Commission extends its gratitude to South Africans who registered for and cast special votes at 22 626 voting stations and home visits over the past two days. At a point in the course of this afternoon indications were that 937 144 voters had been processed,” Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the Electoral Commission, Sy Mamabolo, said.

At the briefing held at the National Results Operation Centre at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Tuesday evening, Mamabolo said the figure was much higher than was the case in the previous elections and “augers well for turnout tomorrow”.

This as voters across the country are expected to make their mark at voting stations in the seventh National and Provincial Elections.

“Similarly, we are pleased by the diligence of the electoral staff who visited voters at homes and places of confinement to administer home visits,” Mamabolo said.

He said voters who for whatever reason were unable to cast their special vote on Monday and Tuesday may still vote at the voting station at which they are registered on Election Day, tomorrow.

Meanwhile, the commission expressed concern at incidents of unlawful conduct.

“The commission thanks South Africans who have assisted and cooperated with electoral officials in the execution of their duties.

“However, the commission remains concerned with incidents of unlawful conduct directed at its operations or against electoral officials. Accordingly, we urge all South Africans, including political party members, supporters, and ordinary citizens to allow electoral officials to carry out their responsibilities.

“The commission thanks the law enforcement agencies for their support and continued safeguard of the electoral process,” Mamabolo said.

The lessons and experiences over the two days of special votes will be used to further refine operations to positively impact on voter experience for tomorrow’s election.

The CEO urged voters to show up in their numbers on voting day.

“The commission urges all the remaining 26 million eligible voters to go out and cast their votes tomorrow.

“The network of 23 292 voting stations will open for voting at 07h00 and close at 21h00. It is important to emphasise that eligible voters who will be at the voting station at 21h00 will be allowed to vote and not turned away.

“We reiterate that voters must vote where they are registered. The general rule in elections is that a person votes at a voting station where they have registered,” Mamabolo said.

The only exception to the general rule is that a voter may vote outside of their registered voting district only after notifying the CEO.

“Notifications in this regard closed on May 17. Approximately 360 000 voters have been approved to vote outside their voting districts,” he said.

Tuesday marked the second and last day for the casting of special votes.

READ | Last day for special votes

Out-of-country voting has already taken place at 111 foreign missions, with more than 78 000 South African citizens living in other countries having cast their vote on 17, 18 and 19 May 2024. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 19:46

56 views

28 May 2024

2 828 SANDF members deployed for the elections

Location: News

2 828 SANDF members deployed for the elections

A total of 2828 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members will be deployed for the maintenance and preservation of law and order during the National and Provincial Elections.

South Africans will make their mark at various voting stations set up across the country on Wednesday.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa has informed the National Assembly that 2 828 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will be employed for service in cooperation with the South African Police Service (SAPS) for the prevention and combating of crime and for the maintenance and preservation of law and order during the National and Provincial Elections,” said the Presidency.

The employment of the SANDF personnel will form part of Operation Prosper and applies from 20 May to 7 June 2024.

In a statement on Tuesday evening, the President’s office said the employment was authorised in accordance with the provisions of Section 201(2) (a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996, read with Section 19 of the Defence Act of 2002 (Act No.42 of 2002).

The expenditure for this employment is estimated at R59 451 704.

Voting on Election Day will take place from 7am until 9pm. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 18:27

103 views

28 May 2024

Security agencies in Mpumalanga ready for elections

Location: News

Security agencies in Mpumalanga ready for elections

Acting Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Busisiwe Shiba, says security agencies are currently deployed at all voting districts across the province.

South Africa will vote in the National and Provincial Elections on Wednesday.

The MEC appealed to citizens who are registered to vote to go out in their numbers and exercise their right to participate in the elections.

Shiba noted a few incidents of intimidation directed at Independent Electoral (IEC) staff and other political parties by some individuals amid the ongoing special votes in the province.

The MEC condemned the behaviour in the strongest possible terms and called on the police to swiftly bring the perpetrators to book.

"The Security Cluster has identified hotspots as part of ensuring that all threats are accordingly eliminated to enable all voters to freely participate in these elections.

“The cluster will decisively deal with any person who threatens other people or officials working at various voting districts across the province.

"We are a democratic state where everybody's right to freely vote should be respected regardless of their political convictions. We therefore wish to reassure the citizens that the security cluster is on high alert and plans are in place to ensure free and fair elections that will not be marred by violence and intimidation," Shiba said. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 17:41

13 views

28 May 2024

Eastern Cape voting stations operational for special votes

Location: News

Eastern Cape voting stations operational for special votes

Eastern Cape Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Zolile Williams, has confirmed that special votes are proceeding as planned in the province, including in Mthatha, Port St Johns, Nyandeni and other areas that were impacted by the taxi strike.

Major entry and exit points into Mthatha were blocked on Monday. According to reports, taxi drivers allegedly hijacked trucks and used them to block both sides of the N2 and R61 roads.

Reports suggest that the taxi operators’ actions were because of a crackdown by authorities following an outbreak of violence last week.

“There are no reports of major challenges that can negatively impact the voting process. The potential hotspots are closely monitored to be promptly dealt with by our stakeholders in the Provincial Election Task Team (PETT). We expect that tomorrow will be plain sailing throughout our province,” said Williams.

Today was the second day of special votes ahead of Wednesday’s Election Day.

Williams appealed to protesting communities to stop preventing other people from exercising their right to vote.

“The intimidation of IEC [Electoral Commission of South Africa] staff is not allowed and must stop. No one must be prevented from voting through the closure of voting stations, digging of trenches on the roads, burning of yres and so on. We call on law enforcement agencies to arrest anyone who breaks the law,” he said.

Meanwhile, the IEC said those people who were unable to be visited on Monday for their special vote due to the taxi protest are being serviced today.

According to Williams, those not found at home can still go to cast their votes on 29 May 2029.

He also encouraged people to report any threats to the voting process to the South African Police Service (SAPS) on 08600 10111. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 15:44

183 views

28 May 2024

SA condemns the unlawful targeting of refugee camps in Rafah

Location: News

SA condemns the unlawful targeting of refugee camps in Rafah

The South African government has joined the international community in condemning the “deplorable” and “brutal attacks” on innocent Palestinian civilians.

This is after Israeli forces bombed a tent camp housing displaced Palestinians in a designated safe zone on Sunday night.

According to reports, at least 45 people, including many women and children were killed, with some of these victims reported to be in critical condition.

“The heinous attacks came two days after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to end its military offensive in Rafah, where more than half of Gaza’s 2.3 million population had sought shelter before Israel’s incursion of Rafah,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation said in a statement.

South Africa, according to the department, said it was “gravely” concerned with the continuous targeting of hospitals, medical infrastructure, schools, and holy sites, which shelter civilians who endure most of the inhumane attacks.

“These continued attacks on innocent civilians pose an extreme risk to humanitarian supplies, basic services in Gaza, the survival of the Palestinian medical system, and the survival of Palestinians in Gaza as a group.”

The department believes that the current conditions confirm that South Africa is justified for approaching the ICJ in 2023, seeking an order to prevent Israel from committing genocide against the Palestinian people.

“What we are witnessing today bears testimony to South Africa’s assertions,” the department added.

The ICJ, the department explained, has jurisdiction over the situation in Palestine.

“We, therefore, call on the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court to urgently act to ensure accountability for those that committing heinous crimes and protect the rights of Palestinians.

“The issuance of arrest warrants which comply with international legal standards is becoming more urgent to bring those responsible to justice. It is the collective duty of the international community to ensure that atrocities of this nature are duly prosecuted in terms of the Rome Statute and the Geneva Conventions.”

The department believes that there can be no real and lasting peace in the region in the absence of justice for Palestine and a just and equitable resolution to the Palestinian question – for the benefit of both Palestinians and Israelis.

“Escalation not only threatens regional stability but risks further inflaming an already tense and hugely volatile situation on the ground. Accordingly, it must be regarded as unacceptable and South Africa, therefore, strongly implores de-escalation.

“The pattern of cyclical escalation must be broken. Our collective human duty to call for a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire cannot be ignored.”

South Africa is urging the international community to respect and uphold International Law, International Humanitarian and Human Rights Law, and relevant United Nations resolutions.

“We must pose the question of how long the international community will continue to watch as an entire population is annihilated before the world can unite to urgently act against these brutal and incessant attacks. Nothing can justify the deliberate killings and injuring of civilians as an entire population endures destruction at a scale and speed without parallel in modern history.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 14:00

4 views

28 May 2024

Phaahla makes his mark

Location: News

Phaahla makes his mark

Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, was one of the thousands of citizens who cast their special vote on Monday.

Yesterday, South Africa marked the first official voting day locally, with special votes continuing today.

Voters living abroad have already cast their votes.

READ | Mashatile thanks South Africans living abroad for casting their votes

Phaahla said all went well as he made his mark around 1pm at his home village of Ga-Phaahla, under the Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality in Sekhukhune District, Limpopo.

He urged all South Africans approved for special votes to make use of this opportunity, especially the elderly and the infirm.

Domestic special votes are for those who are either infirm or have impaired mobility, who will be visited by the IEC at their home or place of confinement, and also for those who wish to cast their vote early, as they may not be able to access their voting station on general Election Day on 29 May 2024.

Phaahla appealed to the public, who will be voting on Wednesday, to observe non-pharmaceutical interventions at voting stations, as the country is experiencing respiratory infections such as flu, to prevent further transmission.

Phaahla encouraged those who feel vulnerable to wear a mask when going to voting stations.

Voting stations are expected to receive high volumes of people.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) reported good progress in the execution of the first day of the special votes.

As of 2pm on Monday, an estimated 201 794 voting station visits of special votes were processed at 22 626 service points.

According to the IEC, all special votes collected will be stored securely overnight and will be transported to voting stations on 29 May to be opened, reconciled and added to the ordinary ballots cast on Wednesday before counting begins.

Over 1.6 million South Africans have been approved to vote via special ballots.

Those who applied to cast a special vote at their voting station must do so between 9am and 5pm.

Voters are reminded that these are different from the voting hours of 7am to 9pm on Election Day and that they must have their identity documents as a requirement for participation.

After casting votes, the ballots must be inserted in an unmarked envelope, which in turn will be inserted in a second envelope with details of the voter. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 11:36

307 views

28 May 2024

Home Affairs offices open for ID applications, collections

Location: News

Home Affairs offices open for ID applications, collections

The Department of Home Affairs’ branches will remain open for the duration of the elections for ID applications and collections.

The offices will open at 08:00 and close at 21:00 on the day of the elections on 29 May 2024.

The offices will also assist with resolving challenges pertaining to duplicates, amendments, rectifications and dead-alive cases with the required supporting documents.

Mobile offices are scheduled to return to deliver IDs in the remote areas where they took applications from. Local offices, working with stakeholders that include councillors, will communicate the dates, times and venues of those visits.

Mobile offices will be used to support the identified local offices.

“We invite people who have applied for their IDs, particularly young people who are first time applicants, to come to our offices to collect their documents. This initiative gives people more options to collect their enabling documents,” said Deputy Minister, Njabulo Nzuza.

“We encourage clients who have applied for identification documents and have received their SMS notifications, to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents,” he said.

Clients can book appointments to collect their Smart ID Cards and Green barcoded ID books before visiting offices by using the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which is available at www.dha.gov.za.

Alternatively, clients can simply visit the offices without making a booking. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 05/28/2024 - 12:13

93 views

27 May 2024

SA records second case of mpox

Location: News

SA records second case of mpox

The Department of Health has urged people experiencing suspected symptoms of mpox disease to visit their nearest healthcare provider for screening and testing to ensure early diagnosis and effective treatment.

This is after the country recorded the second laboratory-confirmed case of mpox disease.

The new patient is a 39-year-old male who was admitted at Addington Hospital in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, without a travel history to countries and regions currently experiencing the disease outbreak.

The first case was logged in Gauteng when a 35-year-old man tested positive on 9 May 2024.

The infectious disease is caused by the monkeypox virus and has the potential to cause painful or itchy rash-like pimples or blisters and fever.

The department working closely with the province and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has activated contact tracing and case finding to identify and assess people in contact with the patient to prevent further transmission, especially at a household and community level.

“This will also assist to establish if the second case was in contact with the first case confirmed in Gauteng earlier this month.”

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) a total of 466 laboratory-confirmed cases of mpox and three deaths from 22 countries were reported globally in March 2024.

According to the department, this illustrates that low-level transmission continues worldwide.

The most affected WHO regions include Africa, Europe, the Americas, the Western Pacific and South-East Asia.

“In the African region, the Democratic Republic of the Congo reports the highest number of confirmed positive cases, which represents just over a tenth of the suspected clinically compatible cases and deaths reported.”

Meanwhile, the department said stigma and discrimination may prolong a disease outbreak by stopping people from coming forward for information or seeking testing or care, which undermines public health efforts.

“We urge the public and communities to support those who test positive for mpox to take treatment and those with suspected symptoms to go for screening and testing instead of discriminating against them.”

Meanwhile, South Africa is currently experiencing the annual influenza (flu) season, which started in the week of 22 April 2024.

According to the department, several flu strains are circulating causing severe health complications in some patients.

“This has been confused with the COVID-19 variant which has been in circulation with a low level of transmissibility and severity.”

The most commonly detected and circulating flu is “swine flu” because it causes disease in pigs, followed by influenza B/Victoria and influenza A (H3N2).

The department said this was not unusual as swine flu has been circulating as one of the annual seasonal flu strains since 2010.

“Influenza A virus is more severe in adults. About 8% to 10% of patients hospitalised for pneumonia and 25% of patients with flu-like illness such as fever and cough will test positive for influenza during the flu season in South Africa.”

According to the NICD surveillance data, the numbers of flu cases and positivity rates are increasing rapidly, but the transmission and impact remain at a moderate level of activity for both outpatient and hospitalised cases.

“This means that while there is a lot of influenza circulating, it is still within the expected range for a normal influenza season. Influenza may cause severe illness leading to hospitalisation or possibly death, especially among those who are at risk of severe influenza illness or complications.”

High-risk groups include pregnant women, mothers six weeks after delivery, individuals living with HIV, those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, tuberculosis, heart disease, renal disease, obesity, the elderly and children under two years old.

“These groups of people are strongly encouraged to receive the influenza vaccine available freely at public health clinics or a cost from private healthcare providers and through pharmacies.”

Ideally, the vaccine should be administered before the start of the flu season because it takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop, but it is not too late for people to get it to protect themselves and their loved ones against these viruses.

Non-pharmaceutical interventions such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, ventilation, and regular hand washing with water and soap or sanitiser can help to minimise the spread of the disease. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 11:21

1221 views

27 May 2024

Northern Cape communities urged to work with police to ensure safe elections

Location: News

Northern Cape communities urged to work with police to ensure safe elections

Law enforcement in the Northern Cape has called on communities to work with them to ensure that the National and Provincial Elections -- to be held this week -- are safe and secure.

In a statement, the Northern Cape Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS), said from their side, law enforcement has done all it can to ensure they are ready for Election Day on Wednesday.

“All the security measures and plans that have been put in place will ensure that the election process in the Northern Cape will proceed without any incidents of crime and disruptions. We assure maximum deployments to ensure the successful execution of the operational plan.

“As the PROVJOINTS, we are satisfied with the contingency plans put in place and reassure the inhabitants of the Northern Cape that they can expect a safe and peaceful election.

“However, while measures are in place, the ultimate responsibility of ensuring a safe and conducive environment lies with every citizen of the province, which requires sound partnerships in order to create a harmonious backdrop of mutual respect as we are heading to the voting polls,” the statement read.

Furthermore, potential threats of disruptions are being monitored.

“Threats identified, such as community protests are already being attended to and those that are found to be in contravention of the law are being dealt with. Our Public Order Police units (POPS) are on the ground and ready to prevent and combat such incidents.

“We take this opportunity to remind our communities that the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa provides that every resident is free to make political choices, which includes the right to participate in the activities of political parties and to campaign for such parties,” the statement said.

Communities are also warned not to vandalise, deface or remove political party posters and placards, as this is against the law.

Citizens are also warned not to spread fake news or incite violence.

“Any person found to be tampering with posters will be arrested and charged with contravention of the Electoral Act 73 of 1998, which prohibits the unlawful removal and defacing of posters published by a political party.

“We also condemn the spreading of fake news, unverified information, rumours or threats on social media platforms that seek to cause unnecessary panic and confusion and in some instances, incite possible violence. Those found to be sharing inflammatory messages and inciting violence will be charged accordingly,” read the statement.

The Northern Cape PROVJOINTS said although ensuring a “safe and secure election process” is a priority, due attention is also paid to normal policing work.

“The main priority of SAPS, with the support of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster departments, is to ensure a safe and secure election process. We also assure the communities of the Northern Cape that normal crime prevention and policing operations are continuing prior, during and beyond the election period.

“Every law enforcement officer on the ground, has the responsibility and an obligation to execute their mandate, professionally, impartially and with integrity and within the confines of the laws of the country. Our members are reminded that we are a-political and will enforce the law without fear and favour,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 12:18

435 views

27 May 2024

IEC: Successful first day of special votes

Location: News

IEC: Successful first day of special votes

The Electoral Commission’s Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Masego Sheburi says he is pleased with the execution of the first day of special votes in the National and Provincial Elections.

Special votes took place on Monday and will continue on Tuesday for qualifying voters. Voting stations for special votes operate from 9am to 5pm.

“As of 2pm today, an estimated 201 794 voting station visits of special votes were processed in 22 626 service points,” Sheburi said, addressing the media at the National Results Operation Centre (ROC) in Midrand, on Monday afternoon.

He said over the two days of special votes, a total of 624 593 voters will be visited by 62 000 officials from the Electoral Commission accompanied by political party agents and observers where they are available.

“The Electoral Commission is happy with the turnout and urges South Africans to continue to go out in their numbers to vote on 29 May 2024,” Sheburi said.

He reminded all those who qualified for special votes that they will only be visited at the given address once.

“If the voter is not present at the given address, they will be able to cast their vote at the voting station where they are registered.

“The commission clarifies that in the instance where a voter has made two transactions, the last will override the first. This is done to protect the integrity of the elections and prevent voters from voting twice,” Sheburi said.

Owing to the commission’s good preparations, the majority of voting stations in the Eastern Cape were opened despite protests which were not related to the elections.

Of the 435 voting stations which experienced problems in the morning, only 107 remain closed due to the external factors. “The commission continues to work with stakeholders to have them open tomorrow,” he said.

Sheburi encouraged all those who applied to cast a special vote at their voting station to do so between the hours of 9am and 5pm.

“Voters are reminded that these are different from the voting hours of 7am to 9pm on Election Day. Voters are reminded to have their identity documents as a requirement for participation.

“After casting votes, the ballots must be inserted in an unmarked envelop which in turn will be inserted in a second envelope with details of the voter. The special voting process is subject to all the security and integrity protocols of normal voting including scrutiny by party agents and observers where present.

“Special votes will be reconciled against the voters’ roll and the list of approved special votes. Additional checks include the use of the double envelope system which allows us to still preserve the secrecy of the voters’ ballot,” Sheburi said.

All special votes collected will be stored securely overnight on 27 and 28 May and will be transported to voting stations on 29 May to be opened, reconciled and added to the ordinary ballots cast on Wednesday before counting begins.

Over 1.6 million South Africans have been approved to vote via special ballots.

With regard to the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, where a group of its supporters allegedly invaded an IEC storage facility and threatened an elections official over the weekend, the commission said it was dealing with the issue seriously.

At a media briefing on Sunday, the commission affirmed its readiness to facilitate the special votes ahead of the national Election Day on Wednesday.

The IEC has assured that the administration of special votes will occur in the presence of contestant representatives and observers where possible, although entry into homes will be at the homeowner’s discretion. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 17:44

388 views

27 May 2024

Security intensified in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape

Location: News

Security intensified in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape

Additional Public Order Policing (POP) members will be deployed to different parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Mthatha in the Eastern Cape to beef up the current law enforcement agencies’ deployments and intensify crime combatting efforts.

This was announced during a send-off parade for more than 700 POP members in Harrismith on Monday.

National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, addressed the parade and said the officers will add to the existing capacity of members currently deployed in these provinces to ensure that voting takes place in a safe and secure environment.

Masemola, in his address, gave the men and women in blue marching orders to ensure they prevent and combat any acts of criminality and protect the rights of South Africans to vote in a peaceful environment.

He said police have mobilised their maximum resources to combat the lawlessness in Mthatha, which includes the blocking of roads.

Police have meanwhile arrested five people who had attempted to block roads leading to the Mthatha Airport.

“We are sending you off to maintain law and order. No disruptions and acts of criminality should take place under your watch. We are sending you out there to protect the constitutional right of South Africans and the integrity of the election process,” said Masemola

The co-chair of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, also formed part of the parade.

She urged members to execute their duties within the ambit of the law. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 18:15

87 views

27 May 2024

TVET students on NSFAS urged to submit personal banking details

Location: News

TVET students on NSFAS urged to submit personal banking details

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has reiterated its call for students at Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to submit their banking details in order to receive their NSFAS allowances.

NSFAS Administrator, Freeman Nomvalo, made the call during a media briefing on progress relating to the disbursement of student allowances, student accommodation, and other related administrative reforms at the scheme, held in Pretoria on Monday.

Nomvalo said the scheme has devised a payment mechanism to address the payment of allowances for TVET students, and payments are currently being made directly to the students’ bank account, as announced on 26 April 2024.

Nomvalo said a total of 211 591 students' bank accounts have been verified, while a total of 7 160 failed the verification checks, due to various reasons, including bank accounts that do not belong to students, like parents’ bank accounts.

Nomvalo emphasised that the banking details provided must belong to the student to enable NSFAS to verify the information against the student’s details on scheme’s record and minimise the potential risks.

“We have requested all TVET students who do not have bank accounts to open the bank accounts with banks of their own choice to avoid delays in the payment of their allowances. I want to call upon all students who have already uploaded their personal banking details and have received a notification through the myNSFAS portal indicating that the verification of their banking details has failed to please re-submit their correct banking details on the portal,” Nomvalo said.

While acknowledging the challenges experienced by university students; Nomvalo said the direct payment mechanism will currently be applicable to TVET college students, and the university students will continue to receive their allowance as through their institutions as arranged.

Addressing concerns on student accommodation

On student accommodation, Nomvalo said NSFAS is dealing with the issues relating to student accommodation, particularly the outstanding payments to private student accommodation landlords.

Nomvalo said a dedicated email and capacity has been established to address all disputes or concerns from landlords.

He called on all landlords to continue to deposit their disputes or concerns “only in so far as outstanding payments are concerned” to the email address.

“The initial call for submission date for the concerns was 10 May 2024. I therefore would like to provide an extension to 31 May 2024, for all the landlords to continue to deposit their concerns to a dedicated email address at NSFASAccomProv@nsfas.org.za.

“All enquiries received will now be processed and will be paid end of May 2024. There may still be outstanding invoices at the end of May which will still need to be processed during the month of June,” Nomvalo said.

As part of proactive planning for future student accommodation, the Administrator said NSFAS have commenced with the planning for the national conference on future student accommodation.

He said NSFAS intend to host the conference in September 2024 involving various stakeholders across the country, including private and public accommodation providers.

“A Task Team involving all the student accommodation stakeholders has been established to serve as a consultative forum to address all issue relating to student accommodation. This Task Team is expected to report back in the September conference. We do so in order to regularise private student accommodation to give greater accommodation,” Nomvalo said.

Additional capacity to address deficiencies

Meanwhile, Nomvalo announced that an additional capacity will be procured by the end of this month, to help strengthen the office of the Administrator, address capacity deficiencies, and deal with long outstanding matters, including the submission of financial statements and the Close Out Report. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 13:59

439 views

27 May 2024

Africa Communications Week 2024

Location: News

Africa Communications Week 2024

By Nomonde Mnukwa

There was a time when the story of Africa was told by voices outside the continent who looked at our continent through a tainted lens. However, this has changed and Africans are now proudly sharing our own stories of development and triumph.

During the 2024 iteration of Africa Communications Week, which coincides with Africa Month, we were once again challenging the narrative of doom and gloom, by profiling success stories of Africa to the world.

Africa Communications Week held from 20- 24 May 2024 brought together communicators, professionals in the media space and thought leaders from around the globe. The aim is to enhance communication in Africa, by communicating developments and positioning Africa as an attractive investment destination.

This year’s Africa Communication Week was convened under the theme: “Influence”. It explored how influential leaders, policymakers and organisations have the ability to shape agendas, implement impactful policies, and mobilise resources towards sustainable development goals. This was important to driving change, fostering innovation and attracting investment on the continent to advance.

Convening Africa Communications Week on the cusp of our Africa Day celebration was an opportunity to promote African Unity and deeper integration and recommit Africa to a shared destiny. Africa Month is a crucial part of our yearly calendar as we acknowledge the work done by the African Union and celebrate pan-Africanism.

It is also an opportunity to unlock economic opportunities in line with the African Continental Free Trade Area AfCFTA, which hold enormous benefits for the continent. The AfCFTA is now operational with a number of countries including South Africa already trading under the agreement.

AfCFTA create a single continental market that allows African countries to diversify their exports, attract foreign direct investment and grow their economies. In support of AFCFTA, the AU dedicated this year’s Africa Day towards accelerating the implementation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Areas.

As we mark, this momentous occasion for our continent, the communications sector has an important role to play in profiling the free trade area and its benefits across the continent. By telling our stories, we can ensure that our countries, economies and people benefit from the implementation of AFCFTA.

South Africa will mark Africa Month held under “Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom: Building a Better Africa and a Better World’’. The programme celebrates the contribution of African nation in helping South Africa reach this national milestone.

There is no doubt that the freedom we enjoy today would not be possible without the commitment and selflessness of the men and women who sacrificed their lives, both in South Africa and on the continent. Their sacrifices have enabled us to imagine a world where Africans are at the heart of our own development and success.

During Africa Communications Week, communication professionals will reflect on how far we have come as a nation and continent. Undoubtedly, much has been achieved, however challenges remain and one of the issues we face as communicators on the continent is the communication divide. Access to information is the lifeblood of society, and the old saying that knowledge is power continues to ring true.

Advancements in technology has resulted in a new tech-savvy audience that is globally connected. This has necessitated a shift in focus to mobile communications, social media and using improved techniques and engagement tools.

How we bridge this divide will be top of mind for communicators during Africa Communications Week, and how we approach communication has to change if we are to keep up with the needs of a changing audience.

We can do so by tapping into new media spaces and by seizing the opportunity presented to us new digital platforms. By doing so we can rewrite the script of Africa by promoting inclusive growth, empowering marginalized communities, and advocating for an informed people where no one is left behind.

*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS

Neo
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 15:10

160 views

27 May 2024

Main entry points in Mthatha blocked, affecting essential services

Location: News

Main entry points in Mthatha blocked, affecting essential services

The Eastern Cape Department of Health has confirmed that services have been affected in hospitals in and around Mthatha by the blocking of the N2 and R61 roads.

“Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital, Mthatha Regional and St Barnabas Hospital staff, who worked the night shift, could not go home, while those who were supposed to report for duty could not get to work because of the blocked roads,” a statement from the department read.

This is after all the major entry and exit points into Mthatha were blocked, as taxi violence erupted.

According to reports, the taxi drivers allegedly hijacked trucks and used them to block both sides of the N2 and R61 roads.

Reports suggest that the taxi operators’ actions were because of a crackdown by authorities following an outbreak of violence last week.

The actions have since forced hospitals to operate with a skeleton staff.

“As soon as roads reopen, those who are supposed to be on duty will go to work to relieve those who worked the night shift.

“The blocked roads mean patients in desperate need of higher level of care cannot get it as ambulances cannot get to Mthatha.”

In emergency cases, the department said it will use aeromedical services to transfer patients.

Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson, Unathi Binqose, told reporters that law enforcement is on the ground and that they are getting reinforcement from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to try to bring the situation back to normality.

“Unfortunately, it has affected a lot of things, including schools and airports — just about everything,” he said.

Those travelling to, from and through the Mthatha area are urged to either delay their travel time or avoid the town, as law enforcement is busy trying to control the situation.

Meanwhile, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS), five suspects were arrested at about 9am on Monday after shots were fired at Public Order Policing and Mthatha Vispol members.

“Two suspects sustained injuries while the other three were arrested. Two firearms were also confiscated. A case of attempted murder and possession of firearms is opened for further investigation,” the SAPS statement read.

SAPS said Public Order Policing, the National Intervention Unit and Tactical Response Teams are in Mthatha policing the situation.

Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene, has since issued a stern warning against those circulating videos and messages that appear to incite unrest.

“Such actions are not only irresponsible but also illegal. We will take strict action against anyone found to be engaging in activities that threaten the safety and security of the public and the integrity of the election process,” warned Mene. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 14:19

76 views

27 May 2024

Public warned against sharing videos inciting violence

Location: News

Public warned against sharing videos inciting violence

Eastern Cape Transport and Community Safety MEC Xolile Nqatha has warned the public that the State will deal decisively with any fear mongers responsible for voice notes and videos calling for a shutdown on social media.

This comes as voice notes and videos were shared on social media seeking to intimidate, incite violence and threaten people’s democratic right to participate in the upcoming elections.

The MEC has assured that public that there will be no shutdown of Mthatha, and has directed the police to track down and bring to justice the man responsible for the video and any other person or persons responsible for similar social media posts.

“The most recent of these social media posts is a brazen video recording by a man, allegedly who calls for a complete shutdown of Mthatha; a stop of elections campaigns in and around Mthatha, less than 48 hours before the elections. The call comes after the police confiscated pistols and assault rifles following the resurgence of taxi violence in the Mthatha, Tsolo and Maclear areas,” the department said on Monday.

Nqatha has termed these acts as selfish, immature and irresponsible actions that seek to undermine the rule of law in this province, and in Mthatha in particular.

“The utterances of the man who recorded the video in particular are an insult to the sacrifices of many of our liberation struggle heroes and heroines. He is virtually spitting in the faces of all our anti-apartheid heroes and heroines, many of whom have sacrificed with their lives for this right to vote and the right for freedom of movement that we now want to take away from our people.

"We can never allow any person to do that on our watch, for that will be a betrayal of this freedom that we now enjoy, and the sacrifices of those who fought so hard for it,” the MEC said.

He said his department is working closely with the police to end the taxi violence in the province. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 13:14

58 views

27 May 2024

Government activities for the week 27 – 31 May 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 27 - 31 May 2024

On Monday, 27 May, Minister of Social Development Lindiwe Zulu launches the Khuseleka One Stop Centre at the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children in Manenberg, Cape Town.

Also on Monday, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma launches the Demand-LED and job creation programme for persons with disabilities at the Coastlands Unhlanga Hotel and Convention Centre.

On 27 May, NSFAS briefs media on progress relating to the disbursement of student allowances at Tshedimosetso House, Hatfield, Pretoria, starting at 11am.

On Monday, Minister of Health Joe Phaahla casts his special vote in his home village of Ga-Phaahla, Limpopo.

Monday is Day 1 of special voting in the National and Provincial Elections, from 9am to 5pm.

Tuesday, 28 May, is Day 2 of special voting in the National and Provincial Elections, from 9am to 5pm.

On Wednesday, 29 May, is Election Day, from 7am to 9pm.

Janine
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 12:29

51 views

27 May 2024

BMA on high alert ahead of elections

Location: News

BMA on high alert ahead of elections

With just two days before South Africa’s national and provincial elections, the Border Management Authority (BMA) is on high alert at all ports of entry to monitor movements.

On Saturday evening, BMA Immigration officials conducted an intelligence driven operation on a flight from Dubai.

A total of 28 Bangladeshis were intercepted on arrival at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) and during the operation, 27 Bangladeshis were found to be in possession of fraudulent visas and one Bangladeshi did not have a visa at all.

The travellers were in contravention of the South African Immigration Act by possessing fraudulent travel documents. The Bangladeshi nationals arrived in the country with visitors’ visas and were denied entry.

The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Dr Michael Masiapato, has commended the interception by the BMA Immigration officials and highlighted the importance of collaborations with embassies and foreign missions in verifying visa legitimacy and encouraged improvements on detection systems.

Commissioner Masiapato also emphasised the need for continued efforts in confiscating illegal documents especially at this critical time of elections.

“I commend the diligent efforts of our immigration officers in intercepting the Bangladesh[i] nationals,” Commissioner Masiapato said.

“The BMA's vigilance and commitment to maintaining the integrity of our immigration system is exemplary.

“This operation underscores the importance of our continuous efforts to secure our borders and ensure that all entrants comply with our legal requirements," he said.

The BMA will continue to tighten its detection systems at the ports of entry.

Four hundred more BMA junior border guards are now entering the system following their pass-out parade and more interceptions are expected across all ports of entry. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 09:46

260 views

27 May 2024

Unite for free, fair and peaceful elections – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Unite for free, fair and peaceful elections - President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has, in his weekly newsletter, called on South Africans to unite for free, fair and peaceful elections.

The National and Provincial Elections are expected to be held on Wednesday with voting stations opening at 7am and closing at 9pm.

Some 27 million eligible South Africans have been registered to vote in this year’s elections.

“Holding free, fair and peaceful elections is a barometer of the good health of our democracy. As we cast our votes on Wednesday, let us, in the words of our Constitution, 'honour those who suffered for justice and freedom in our land, respect those who have worked to build and develop our country, and believe that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity'.”

“Let us hold another election that is peaceful, that is free, that is fair and that is a credit to all the elections we have held since 1994. Let it be that the ultimate winner of this election is South Africa, our democracy, and you, the South African people,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President highlighted that since the dawn of democracy, elections have been held “without major incident” and expressed confidence that this year’s elections will also take place in the same vein.

“Once again, we have every confidence that this election will take place under conditions of peace, safety and tolerance, and that it will be free and fair.

“The integrity of our elections is testament to the high regard in which South Africans hold their hard-won right to vote. It is an affirmation that no matter what our political differences are, when it comes to safeguarding our democracy, we are prepared to put these differences aside for the common good,” President Ramaphosa said.

A look back

President Ramaphosa recalled how South Africa “was on the brink” on the eve of the first democratic elections in 1994 with “state-sponsored violence and the threat of a right-wing insurrection” contributing to a “sense of fear and uncertainty”.

“One newspaper carried a story at the time titled “South Africa hoarding as fear rises”. It described long supermarket queues of people stocking up on tinned foods, a rush to attend emigration seminars, panicked currency exchanges, and fearful callers to radio stations about sabotage of power plants and water supplies.

“We recall the courage of the political leadership at the time and their efforts to quell tensions. We recall the role of the leadership of the Inkatha Freedom Party, the African National Congress and the National Party in signing a memorandum of agreement for reconciliation and peace just three days before the election.

“We recall these events to remind ourselves of what is required of us all as we head to the polls on Wednesday. We are required to continue to honour the sacrifices of our forebears by exercising their right to vote and to do so peacefully. We are required to respect the rights of others regardless of who they are voting for, and regardless of whether they are voting or not,” he said.

Despite all the doomsday fears at that time, the President said, “none of these fears materialised”.

“As South Africans we have rejected the politics of fear time and again, and we will continue to do so.

“For the past thirty years we have chosen the path of peace over violence, of reconciliation over hate, and of unity over divisions of race, ethnicity or tribe. The stability and integrity of our electoral system bears witness to this,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 10:05

71 views

26 May 2024

Achievements and challenges: President reflects on sixth administration

Location: News

Achievements and challenges: President reflects on sixth administration

As the term of the sixth administration draws to a close, President Cyril Ramaphosa has reflected on the achievements and challenges faced by government during this five year period.

South Africans are expected head to the polls in the National and Provincial Elections this week to elect leaders for the seventh administration.

In an address to the nation on Sunday, the President said that at the start of his term in office in 2019, South Africa “stood at a turning point”.

“We had endured a decade of corruption and state capture, of weak economic growth and the erosion of our public institutions. Today, we have put that era behind us. We have placed South Africa on a new trajectory of recovery and laid a strong foundation for future growth.

“We have taken significant steps to reform our economy by implementing a number of reforms that affect various sectors of the economy. In tackling crime and corruption, we have introduced a number of initiatives and measures to reposition our criminal justice system.

“We have faced many challenges along the way, which have tested our resilience and our resolve. Yet, in each instance, we have confronted these challenges together. We have remained united. We have worked in partnership and in solidarity,” the President said.

State Capture and corruption

President Ramaphosa said that the nation brought state capture to an end.

“We dislodged the criminal networks that had stolen billions from our people, that had eroded our public institutions and that had undermined the rule of law. Together, we worked to rebuild our law enforcement agencies, our security services, our state-owned companies and a number of other public bodies.

“Through the work of institutions like the NPA’s [National Prosecuting Authority] Investigating Directorate, the Hawks and the SIU, several state capture and corruption cases have been brought to court and billions of Rands in stolen funds have been recovered,” he said.

To further strengthen the work of the NPA, President Ramaphosa has now signed into law the establishment of the NPA’s Investigating Directorate against Corruption as a permanent entity.

“There is still much that we need to do to end corruption. However, as a country, we have sent a clear message to the corrupt that they can no longer expect to get away with their crimes with impunity and without consequence,” President Ramaphosa said.

COVID-19 pandemic

The President remarked that the COVID-19 pandemic, which swept across the world and pushed economies to their limits, was one of the defining moments of the last five years.

More than 100 000 South Africans died during the pandemic with some two million jobs lost.

“We introduced a massive package of social and economic support to protect vulnerable businesses, workers and households from the destructive effects of the pandemic. More than 5.7 million workers received wage support through the special UIF scheme.

“Through the introduction of the special SRD [Social Relief of Distress] grant, we provided relief to more than 11 million unemployed people at the height of the pandemic.

“Working together, we succeeded in administering more than 39 million COVID-19 vaccine doses. Even during the worst moments of the pandemic, we endured and we overcame. This is how we are as South Africans. We confront even the greatest of challenges with determination and courage,” the President said.

Rebuilding the economy

President Ramaphosa said rebuilding the economy following the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic has been characterised by South Africans coming together “in social partnerships to drive investment, to build infrastructure and to remove the obstacles to inclusive growth”.

He highlighted that as a result, the economy has now returned to levels seen before the pandemic and “we have recovered the jobs lost to the pandemic”.

“Together, we supported Eskom’s efforts to improve the performance of its power stations. We enabled investment in new electricity generation capacity on a scale that is unprecedented in our history.

“Working with financial institutions, development agencies, business and professional associations, we revitalised investment in infrastructure. The value of projects currently in construction is over R230 billion, including energy, water infrastructure and rural roads projects.

“Together, we mobilised more than R1.5 trillion in new investment commitments. This has led to the opening of new factories, mines, data centres and production lines.

“Working with private sector partners, we established the Youth Employment Service, which has created over 144 000 work experiences for young people. We have worked across government and with NGOs to implement the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has created more than 1.9 million work and livelihood opportunities for unemployed South Africans,” he said.

Into the future

The President emphasised that the sixth administration and all of the work it has done is a springboard for building a better future.

“The last five years have been a time of rebuilding and recovery. It has been about working together not only to meet the challenges of the moment, but to put in place firm foundations for a better future.

“As this sixth administration draws to a close, and as we prepare for the seventh administration, let us build on the progress that we have made. At this moment in our path to renewal, we cannot afford to turn back. There is more work to be done,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 05/26/2024 - 19:50

209 views

26 May 2024

President Ramaphosa wishes IEC well ahead of elections

Location: News

President Ramaphosa wishes IEC well ahead of elections

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) well ahead of the National and Provincial Elections due to be held this week.

Special votes are to be administered on Monday and Tuesday with the general elections to be held on Wednesday.

Addressing the nation in a televised broadcast on Sunday evening, the President applauded the commission for its work in the run up to the elections.

“As a country, we have once again witnessed the capabilities of the IEC – in the successful voter registration weekends, in the registration of parties and candidates, in the preparation of ballot papers, in the organisation of overseas voting, and in the diligent application of our electoral laws.

“We convey our thanks and best wishes to the IEC commissioners, to the IEC staff and to the thousands of election workers as they deliver on this most important responsibility in the coming days,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President remarked that the defining feature of South Africa’s elections since the dawn of democracy in 1994 “has been their integrity…made possible not only by the work and conduct of the IEC, but also by the presence of party agents and independent observers”.

“The involvement of party agents gives people confidence that there is effective oversight of all aspects of the electoral process.

“Through the presence of local and international observers we are able to satisfy ourselves that our elections conform not only to our own laws, but also to internationally-accepted standards of freeness and fairness.

“We thank all the party agents and the election observers for the work they are doing, and reiterate that they must be allowed to do their work without any hindrance,” he said.

WATCH I President Ramaphosa’s address

President Ramaphosa emphasised the history attached to the right for all eligible South Africans to make their mark.

This right was hard won by liberation heroes and anti-apartheid activists who fought for South Africa’s democracy against a brutal apartheid state.

“This will be the seventh time that South Africans of all races, from all walks of life, from all corners of our country, will go to vote for national and provincial government. We will once again assert the fundamental principle, articulated in the Freedom Charter, that no government can justly claim authority unless it is based on the will of all the people. In the days to come, we will be doing much more than exercising our Constitutional right to vote,” said the President.

He said citizens will be determining the direction that the country takes.

“I call upon all South Africans to go cast their votes. We are a diverse people, but a united nation. Let us be united in our commitment to our democracy,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 05/26/2024 - 19:10

0 views