SA News

13 May 2024

MDDA partners with media for elections training

Location: News

MDDA partners with media for elections training

In preparation for the 2024 National Elections, the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) has collaborated with the Electoral Commission (IEC) for the past year to implement a training programme for the community media sector to improve their coverage of the elections.

Through this partnership, the sector has been taken through the legislative amendments (Electoral Act), the Electoral Code of Conduct, prohibited conduct and applicable penalties, and free and fair elections.

“For the first time since the first democratic elections in 1994, voters will have a wider range of options in terms of the individuals or political parties they want to elect for the National and Provincial Elections.

“As a result of amendments to legislation governing elections, voters will only be able to vote anywhere after notifying the IEC of the intent to such. Failing such notification, voters will only vote where they are registered,” the MDDA said on Monday.

Furthermore, voters will be faced with three ballots instead of the two as was done in previous elections. Independents may now contest National and Provincial Elections.

“Elections are a critical part of democracy. They give power to voters to choose their leaders and hold them answerable for their performance and level of service in office. Further, elections enable people through voting the opportunity to express their views on current issues as well as their frustrations towards leaders who may be failing them.

“However, to vote efficiently and choose a party or leadership that will enable the fulfilment of an equitable society, voters need to know where candidates and parties stand on public policy issues,” MDDA Chief Executive Officer Shoeshoe Qhu said.

With only three weeks left until Elections Day, the Agency is hosting its final leg of the elections capacity-building programme.

They will be conducting elections readiness sessions starting on 17th of May with an online session focusing on IEC legislative amendments and announcements, followed by a roundtable discussion on the 20th May 2024 unpacking the importance of safety on election day, the role of the church in politics and the impact of political party messaging.

The series of events will end with a full day workshop on focusing on fact checking, verification and the impact of generative AI on journalistic content training session on 22 May 2024.

The elections will take place on Wednesday, 29 May 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:46

393 views

13 May 2024

Eskom breaches ‘psychological mark’ of 70% Energy Availability Factor

Location: News

Eskom breaches ‘psychological mark’ of 70% Energy Availability Factor

Eskom has achieved an Energy Availability Factor (EAF) of some 70.78% - a feat last achieved nearly three years ago.

This is according to Minister in The Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who was briefing media on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan on Monday.

The power utility has suspended load shedding for more than a month.

“As I stand before you today, the Energy Availability Factor of Eskom has breached the 70% mark. That’s significant. The last time we achieved this was in August 2021.

"The month-to-date statistics suggest that we are at 64.34% and the year to date we are at 59.92%. But we have breached the psychological mark of 70% as a result of this consistent performance.

“This has happened over a period of time. It stretches from the appointment of [the current Eskom] board in October 2022. It gets to be codified in the Energy Action Plan unveiled by President Ramaphosa [in] July 2022, the appointment of the Minister in The Presidency responsible for Electricity, the stabilisation of the management team, the introduction of performance related incentive bonuses and the isolation of critical stations that required attention,” he said.

WATCH |

The Minister reflected that as the country was plunged into higher stages of load shedding as a result of heightened and extensive maintenance and other factors, government argued that "the short-term pain would be eclipsed by long-term gains".

“The aggressive maintenance-led recovery plan is beginning to yield fruits. When we went into December 2023, transitioning into January 2024, we reached the highest levels of planned maintenance in the period of three years. We took out 18% of the total generating capacity into planned maintenance and these units are coming back."

Ramokgopa said as a result of the improved performance of Eskom’s coal fleet, the power utility is less reliant on the Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs), which consume diesel.

“What we are told in the public domain…[is] that the result of this improvement is on the back of the burning of diesel. There could be nothing further from the truth. This is anchored by these machines that are at Kusile and many other power stations.

“The load factor of the OCGT [has decreased] from what was previously 19.13% to now what is 6.8%. So we have reduced it by about 13 percentage points. What anchors this recovery is the performance of these coal fired power stations,” Ramokgopa said.

The Electricity Minister warned that although there has been noteworthy improvement, more work must be done to resolve the energy challenge in its entirety.

“We need to ensure sure that we bring other power stations to the levels of [best performers] Kusile, Lethabo, Majuba and Medupi so that across the entire fleet, when you use station by station, we should be above 70%.

“Of course we don’t congratulate a fish for swimming because it must swim but we know where we come from. So I want to say to the [Eskom] team, thank you for breaching the 70% EAF… but we know that there are power stations that require attention going into the future,” Ramokgopa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:13

480 views

13 May 2024

SA records a case of monkeypox disease

Location: News

SA records a case of monkeypox disease

The Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, is urging the public to be vigilant as the country has reported a laboratory-confirmed case of monkeypox disease, also known as Mpox.

The case involves a 35-year-old male, who resides in the Gauteng province and tested positive on 9 May 2024.

The case was first tested by Lancet Laboratory, which was later confirmed by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) and immediately notified the department.

According to the department, Mpox is a rare viral infectious disease in humans caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV).

Although the virus is not highly transmissible from person to person, it has increased in global public health significance and can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever.

According to the department, most people fully recover, but some get very sick.

The preliminary investigation and case findings report show that the patient has no recent travel history to countries experiencing an outbreak of the disease.

“Both the National and Gauteng Departments of Health have been actively involved and are managing the situation as per protocol and national guidelines. Contact tracing [is] continuing [to identify] any additional linked cases of Mpox in South Africa.”

Since 2023, there has been an ongoing Mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) primarily due to a distinct MPXV clade I.

The clade I, the department said, is characterised by its high virulence and has a higher fatality rate than the global outbreak-associated clade II.

“Additionally, transmission of MPXV clade I is mostly observed among heterosexual individuals through sexual transmission, particularly among female sex workers.”

Meanwhile, a new variant of the MPXV, named “clade 1b”, emerged during epidemiological week 16 of 2024 from 14 to 20 April 2024 in Kamituga, a mining enclave within the DRC.

“This variant exhibits heightened transmissibility, mainly through sexual contact, raising concerns about its potential to cause a pandemic.”

Mpox presents with an acute illness characterised by fever and general flu-like symptoms, followed by the eruption of a blister-like rash on the skin.

The disease is rarely fatal and cases typically resolve within two to four weeks. Most cases do not require hospital treatment.

According to the department, prevention of infection hinges on the isolation of cases until fully recovered.

The risk to the general population is considered low, given the low transmissibility of the virus.

The last reported cases of Mpox in South Africa were in August 2022.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends increasing vigilance for cases with contact tracing and monitoring of laboratory-confirmed cases.

“Isolation of confirmed cases allows for the prevention of transmission and interruption of the cycle of transmission. Circulation of the MPXV in humans may be eliminated through this classic containment approach. Mass vaccination against the MPXV is not currently recommended.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 15:52

247 views

13 May 2024

KZN tourism entrepreneurs set to showcase province’s rich culture at Indaba

Location: News

KZN tourism entrepreneurs set to showcase province’s rich culture at Indaba

As thousands of delegates attending Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024 descend on Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, emerging tourism entrepreneurs participating in the event are set to showcase their businesses and the province’s rich culture and history.

The Travel Indaba, which kicks off from 13 to 16 May 2024 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC), brings together exhibitors from various African nations and buyers worldwide to showcase a collection of products from across the African tourism sector.

The event also emphasises capacity building and knowledge sharing, benefiting all attendees, including smaller and emerging businesses in the industry.

READ | SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba

The Travel Indaba is expected to be attended by delegates from 26 African countries, including 120 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs).

Among the KZN entrepreneur exhibitors is Nkosikhona Ndlovu, the man behind Amangonyama Tour Operator, a 100% Black-owned company in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.

Ndlovu said his aim is to deliver safety, education, and unforgettable experiences for his clients attending the indaba.

“For me, Africa’s Travel Indaba is a huge opportunity to showcase what we offer and to engage with potential buyers from across Africa. I am hoping to make valuable connections and secure future business opportunities,” Ndlovu said.

Entrepreneur Msizeni Mngadi, who is the owner of Indlondlo Cultural Village in the Valley of a Thousand Hills, said he is passionate about introducing visitors to the Zulu culture.

Mngadi noted that Indlondlo Cultural Village is not just a destination, but a portal into the heart and soul of the Zulu people.

“Here, visitors have the opportunity to delve into the essence of Zulu tradition through guided tours of traditional homesteads, captivating displays of dance and drumming, and interactive activities that allow for a hands-on exploration of Zulu customs,” Ndlovu said.

IMAGES (Source: Africa's Travel Indaba/X) | Africa Tourism Indaba BONDAY discussions

Danica Bartho, who owns Biweda Nguni Lodge and Tandweni Villa with her mother in the heart of Zululand, Northern KZN, said they are eager to showcase their projects to the world at ATI 2024.

Biweda Nguni Lodge offers a blend of comfort and affordability, with farmhouse charm, while Tandweni Villa offers a luxurious safari experience.

With a focus on empowerment and skill development, Bartho and her team provide a safe haven for previously disadvantaged women to flourish within the tourism industry.

“This [ATI] is not just about business, it is about forging connections, sharing stories, and opening doors to new opportunities and continuing our commitment to empowering women and promoting sustainable tourism,” Bartho said.

The ATI event kicks off with the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) on 13 May 2024.

BONDay is tailored to foster thought leadership and share global tourism insights under four streams: unlimited, discover, connect, and grow.

The day is crucial for advancing knowledge and exploring new opportunities in the tourism sector, offering invaluable networking opportunities, thought leadership discussions, and insights into global trends.

Welcoming Africa’s Travel Indaba back to the province, KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, said Africa’s Travel Indaba plays a significant role in KwaZulu-Natal tourism growth and has an immeasurable impact on the province’s economy.

“Again, this year, we will have several emerging tourism entrepreneurs participating as part of the Tourism KZN Tourism Enterprise Development Programme to afford them an opportunity to showcase their businesses and lock business deals to help them grow in the sector,” Duma said.

EThekwini Municipality Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Thembo Ntuli, emphasised the significance of the indaba for Durban, saying it is an instrumental platform for the tourism industry, which is firmly on the road to recovery.

“The show has become synonymous with the city of Durban, as we have hosted this critical tourism showcase over many years. The city’s economy will benefit immensely from hosting this three-day long trade showcase as hotel occupancy is expected to be between 85% and 95%.

“In addition, local tourism products and community tourism organisations are ready and eager to engage with buyers, tour operators, and travel agencies to continue selling Durban as the destination of choice,” Ntuli said.

The 2023 edition witnessed remarkable growth, with a nearly 62% increase in attendance and over 1 033 exhibiting companies, attracting 8 688 delegates from 22 countries, and contributed R451 546 283 to eThekwini's GDP and R597 051 772 to KwaZulu-Natal, underscoring the event's significance. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 12:26

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13 May 2024

Parliament to wrap up its work on Thursday, ahead of elections

Location: News

Parliament to wrap up its work on Thursday, ahead of elections

Parliament has announced that it will be concluding its work this week, with both Houses scheduled to consider various legislation, committee reports, and farewell speeches from Members.

According to a statement released by Parliament, the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will consider the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill (BELA) on Tuesday at 9am.

On Thursday, the NCOP will, during its plenary, consider the Railway Safety Bill, National Water Resources Infrastructure Bill, Transport Appeal Tribunal Amendment Bill, Marine Pollution Amendment Bill, General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill, and the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill.

The National Assembly (NA) is scheduled to also convene on Thursday at 10am to consider various bills. These include the Municipal Demarcation Authority Bill, Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill, Statistics Amendment Bill, Pension Funds Amendment Bill, and Public Procurement Bill.

Both Houses will wrap up on Thursday with Members’ farewell speeches, ahead of the National and Provincial Elections on 29 May 2024.

About seven committee meetings are scheduled this week to, among others, consider the report of the Pension Funds Amendment Bill and the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill.

Citizens can live stream the plenaries of the NA and NCOP on Parliament's YouTube channel or watch Parliament TV on DStv channel 408.

Last week, Parliament’s officials handed over parts of the National Assembly and the Old Assembly buildings that were gutted in a fire in 2022 to demolition contractors to begin the project of rebuilding the historic building.

The initial phase of the rebuild project will involve the demolition of structurally unsafe sections of the building, which have been designated as the “red zone” due to their instability and compromised safety.

The removal of these areas, Parliament said, requires specialised expertise and machinery, particularly given the historical and heritage significance of the building.

The damaged sections of the buildings will be cleared this month to start rehabilitation works by August. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:19

209 views

13 May 2024

Health dept commemorates International Nurses Day in W Cape

Location: News

Health dept commemorates International Nurses Day in W Cape

The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, is today leading International Nurses Day to recognise the tireless efforts of nurses in providing compassionate care and promoting health and wellness worldwide.

“Nurses are usually the first primary care contact for the patients and are also responsible for recognising patients’ symptoms, taking measures within their scope of practice to administer medications, providing other measures for symptom alleviation, and collaborating with other health professionals to optimise patients’ comfort and families’ understanding and adaptation,” said the department.

International Nurses Day is celebrated annually on 12 May in memory of the birth of the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale, who was regarded as the foundational philosopher of modern nursing.

This year’s International Nurses Day will be celebrated under the, ‘Our Nurses, Our Future’, theme.

READ | Salute to nurses!

It will focus on the economic power of care, which serves as a clarion call by the International Council of Nurses to countries to address global health challenges and improve global health for all.

The Western Cape event is part of countrywide activities to honour nurses for the important role they play in saving millions of lives and raise awareness of the challenges they face.

Dhlomo will be joined by Western Cape MEC for Health and Wellness, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo; United States Consular General for Cape Town Consulate, Todd Haskell; Acting US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar) Country Coordinator, Saira Johnson-Qureshi; leaders of nursing trade unions, and representatives of key stakeholders.

The event will culminate with the launch of the Nursing Leadership Initiative aimed at building leadership capacity among current and emerging nurse leaders in practice, education and training to empower them with leadership skills.

The event, the department said, is a collaboration between the Department of Health and Pepfar.

The initiative forms part of a plan to elevate the nursing profession within Pepfar-supported countries as part of a larger effort to strengthen the healthcare workforce globally and ensure HIV response gains are sustained. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 11:53

63 views

13 May 2024

Government activities for the week 13 – 17 May 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 13 - 17 May 2024

On Monday, 13 May, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala will lead a delegation comprising of built environment professionals and experts to the George building disaster.

Also on Monday, the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, will lead the International Nurses Day commemorative event in Cape Town.

On Tuesday, 14 May, to Thursday, 16 May, the Department of Tourism will be hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.

On Tuesday, 14 May, the Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga will deliver the main address at the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s passing out parade, where 410 newly trained traffic officers will become ready to save lives on the country’s roads.

On Wednesday, 15 May, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the memorial lecture on the life of Elijah Barayi.

Also on Wednesday, the Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga and the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will undertake various road safety activations during a three-day visit.

On Thursday, 16 May, and Friday, 17 May, the Department of Employment and Labour will host a joint inter-departmental Jobs Fair in KwaZulu-Natal.

Janine
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:48

67 views

13 May 2024

Upgrade of Ogunjini Water Treatment Works resumes

Location: News

Upgrade of Ogunjini Water Treatment Works resumes

The EThekwini Municipality has appointed a contractor to commence with the upgrade of the Ogunjini Water Treatment Works, which will help to improve water supply in areas in the north of Durban.

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu, together with eThekwini Municipality, introduced the contractor, who will commence with the R56 million upgrade, to the community during an event held at Osindisweni Sports Ground on Sunday.

Speaking at the event, Mchunu said the completion of the upgrades will improve water supply to Osindisweni, which is currently experiencing water supply shortages.

The water supply shortages affecting the area are due the water treatment work’s inability to sufficiently manage the growing demand from the community in the area.

Ogunjini Water Works was built to primarily supply water to Osindisweni Hospital. However, over time, there has been a significant number of homes reliant on the pump station.

“Once this project is complete, the treatment works will have a design capacity of three megalitres (ML) per day. Currently, it has a design capacity of 0.9 ML per day,” Mchunu said.

Mchunu said the project is part of the city’s efforts to ensure reliable water supply, particularly in rural areas.

“We are pleased that the municipality continues to invest in water infrastructure and a number of projects are currently underway including the upgrade of the Southern Aqueduct which will improve water supply in the southern areas.

“We have also increased the capacity of Hazelmere Dam, which will alleviate water challenges in areas such as Verulam and oThongathi up to Stanger,” Mchunu said.

eThekwini Infrastructure and Human Settlements Committee Deputy Chairperson, Bheki Mngwengwe, assured the community that the contractor, who will be on site from today, will be closely monitored to ensure that work is of quality and completed within 10 months. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:06

127 views

13 May 2024

Public Works Minister to visit George building disaster site

Location: News

Public Works Minister to visit George building disaster site

Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) Minister, Sihle Zikalala, will today lead a delegation comprising built environment professionals and experts to the George building disaster.

Zikala’s visit follows last Monday’s collapse of the Victoria Street multi-storey site building in the Western Cape’s George Municipality.

In a brief statement on Monday morning, the George municipality confirmed 24 fatalities adding that rescue and recovery efforts are continuing.

The delegation will include leadership from DPWI senior executives, the Construction Industry and Development Board (CIDB), Council for the Built Environment (CBE) and its regulatory professional councils, namely Quantity Surveyors, Town Planners, Engineers, Environments Practitioners, Land Surveyors, Project and Construction Managers, Property Valuers, Architects and Landscape Architects.

The two entities of the DPWI are responsible for regulating the built environment and construction sector in the country.

The purpose of the visit is to ascertain the role of professionals who were involved with this project and assess if there was compliance with all built environment regulations or there was no misconduct committed by the professionals leading to the disaster.

Minister Zikalala will first visit the Joint Operations Center and get a briefing and update on the situation, then proceed to visit the disaster site.

The Minister will then address the media together with his delegation of professionals.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his condolences to the families of those who died in the tragedy.

Meanwhile, Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi visited the site of the collapsed building on Thursday.

READ | Condolences for families of George building collapse

READ | George building collapse: numbers revised

– SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 08:49

48 views

12 May 2024

Labour dept institutes strict controls for service providers

Location: News

Labour dept institutes strict controls for service providers

Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi has warned service providers linked to the Labour Activation Programme (LAP) that they will not be paid without their performance being checked.

“The department expects delivery, compliance with contractual obligations, professionalism, quality work, measurable outputs and impactful interventions from you,” said Nxesi while delivering his keynote address at the Labour Activation Programme launch in Kimberley, Northern Cape, on Friday.

Nxesi said the department has employed systems and processes to monitor the performance of LAP service providers.

This comes after eight LAP service providers accepted and signed a pledge to provide training to 23 070 young people in the Northern Cape.

The training, with a budget of R558 million, will focus on sectors including agriculture, construction, hospitality, security, energy, call centres, and new venture creations.

Nxesi said the department has also been focusing on reconfiguring, along with its entities, to strengthen and improve effectiveness.

“We are currently implementing the recommendations of an independent review of the Unemployment Insurance Fund and the Compensation Fund, focusing on strengthening service delivery and innovation, and developing effective and efficient business processes and systems.

“This includes an established project management office to monitor projects, enforce contracts and evaluate outcomes,” Nxesi said.

After the LAP launch, Nxesi visited a Jobs/Careers Fair -- also hosted by the department -- at Galeshewe Stadium.

The event was attended by scores of work seekers from nearby communities.

IMAGES | Jobs Fair @Galeshewe Stadium

Jobs/Careers Fair @ Galeshewe Stadium, Northern Cape.

Nxesi advised job seekers to use their mobile phones to register on the department’s Employment Services of South Africa database, and to apply for LAP opportunities when they are advertised.

The Minister also advised job seekers to be aware of unscrupulous and bogus employers advertising fake opportunities.

He also urged them to report unscrupulous recruitment agencies, who charge job seekers a fee for employment opportunities, to the department and the South African Police Service. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 08:28

1089 views

12 May 2024

South Africa seeks additional provisional measures in Gaza

Location: News

South Africa seeks additional provisional measures in Gaza

South Africa has returned to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to seek an urgent order from the court for the protection of Palestinian people in Gaza amid Israel’s ongoing military assault on Rafah.

The urgent application filed on Friday follows the escalation of Israel’s assault on Rafah, which poses an extreme risk to humanitarian supplies, basic services into Gaza, the survival of the Palestinian medical system, and the survival of Palestinians in Gaza as a group.

In a statement issued by the Presidency on Saturday, President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africa contends that the attack on Rafah further worsens the prevailing situation and causes irreparable harm to the rights of Palestinians in Gaza, and that the situation has changed significantly since the Court’s order of 28 March 2024.

Rafah is home to 1.5 million Palestinians, and it is the last refuge in Gaza for those displaced by Israeli action. It is the last viable centre for public administration and the provision of basic public services, including medical care.

“Since the start of the military action in Rafah, Israel has seized control of both the Rafah and Kerem Shalom (Karem Abu Salem) crossings, effectively controlling all movement in and out of Gaza, and cutting off all critical humanitarian and medical supplies, goods and fuel.

“Israel has further prevented medical evacuations and has treated evacuation zones as extermination zones, as evidenced with the destruction of hospitals in Gaza and discovery of mass graves in other major health care facilities in the Strip,” President Ramaphosa said.

South Africa has called for urgent interventions and investigations of all actions that continue to cause irreparable prejudice to the rights of Palestinians, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for targeted killings.

South Africa called on the State of Israel to immediately withdraw and cease its military offensive in the Rafah Governorate, and take all effective measures to ensure and facilitate the unimpeded access to Gaza of United Nations and other officials engaged in the provision of humanitarian aid and assistance to the population of Gaza.

The country also called for fact-finding missions by internationally mandated bodies or officials, investigators and journalists in order to assess and record conditions on the ground in Gaza and enable the effective preservation and retention of evidence and shall ensure that its military does not act to prevent such access, provision, preservation or retention.

“The State of Israel shall submit an open report to the Court on all measures taken to give effect to these provisional measures within one week as from the date of this Order; and on all measures taken to give effect to all previous provisional measures indicated by the Court within one month as from the date of this Order,” the President said.

South Africa also requested that the Court reaffirm and seek urgent compliance by Israel with the provisional measures ordered by the Court on 26 January and 28 March 2024.

“South Africa remains firmly of the view that the necessary condition for the effective implementation of the Court’s provisional measures is a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. We call on the international community, including the allies of the State of Israel, not to turn a blind eye to the ongoing genocide in Gaza.

“The gross human rights violations perpetuated by Israel have scaled to incomprehensible levels of cruelty, hate and extreme violent oppression. The world must do more to end the persecution of Palestinians, including that of many innocent women and children,” President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa said South Africa is deeply heartened by the protest actions of university students in the United States and other parts of the world.

READ | Pandor reiterates stance on Israel

“We are also greatly encouraged by the adoption of the United Nations General Assembly draft resolution that recommends to the Security Council to reconsider favourably the application by the State of Palestine for full membership of the United Nations.

“The support of this resolution shown by 143 countries is a further demonstration that the world is listening to the cries of the Palestinians,” Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 10:12

760 views

12 May 2024

IEC to brief on election readiness

Location: News

IEC to brief on election readiness

The Electoral Commission (IEC) will on Tuesday brief media on the general readiness for 2024 National and Provincial Elections at Election House in Centurion.

“The briefing will cover the preparations for out-of-country voting, which is scheduled to take place in 111 foreign missions on Friday, 17 May and Saturday, 18 May 2024,” the commission said in a statement.

More than 78 000 South African citizens living in other countries will cast their vote on 17, 18 and 19 May 2024.

The Commission also reminded voters that the deadline for applications to vote outside of their district is on Friday, 17 May 2024 at 5pm.

Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission says it has noted the Constitutional Court ruling on the matters brought before it by three political parties concerning their exclusion from the national and provincial ballots.

The three parties -- the Labour Party, the African Congress for Transformation Party, and the African Alliance for Social Democrats Party -- approached the Constitutional Court on an urgent basis to re-open the candidate nomination and submission period of the election timetable and/or postpone the elections as proclaimed.

During a hearing on Friday, the Constitutional Court ruled that the three parties will be excluded from the ballot paper of the 2024 elections.

“The ruling by the Constitutional Court allows the Electoral Commission to continue with final preparations for the general elections on Wednesday, 29 May 2024. The Electoral Commission is focused on fulfilling its mandate of delivering free, fair, and credible 2024 National and Provincial Elections,” the Commission said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:15

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12 May 2024

Sotyu to hand over Mabama forestry plantation

Location: News

Sotyu to hand over Mabama forestry plantation

Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Deputy Minister, Makhotso Sotyu, will on Tuesday hand over the Mabama forestry plantation to the Mashamba Traditional Council in Limpopo.

The handing over ceremony of the plantation, to be held at Vhembe TVET College in Ha-Mashamba, comes after the successful conclusion of a Community Forestry Agreement (CFA) between the Mashamba Traditional Council and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE).

The department said the handover of the plantation aims to empower communities living in the vicinity, enabling them to manage the asset effectively and participate meaningfully in the forestry economy.

“The plantation, with predominantly eucalyptus, plays a vital role in sustainable forestry management and is essential for the transformation agenda that is emphasised in the Commercial Forestry Sector Masterplan. This plantation measures approximately 71.92 hectares in extent,” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 11:40

240 views

12 May 2024

Salute to nurses!

Location: News

Salute to nurses!

As the world celebrates International Nurses Day, the South African Nursing Council (SANC) has called on South African citizens to show appreciation for every nurse working tirelessly towards the health of the nation.

International Nurses Day is celebrated annually on 12 May, the birthday of the founder of modern-day nursing Florence Nightingale.

The 2024 International Nurses Day is celebrated under the theme: “Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care”.

Affirming this year’s theme, SANC Registrar and CEO, Professor Ntombifikile Mtshali, said nurses are vital to the sustainability and effectiveness of healthcare systems, making the economic investment in nursing a priority.

“Without nurses, the right to healthcare for all cannot be achieved. Nursing is a noble profession, which requires the highest degree of professionalism, ethical leadership and practice, resilience, dedication, and care,” Mtshali said.

Mtshali said the health system cannot function without nursing as its backbone – a lesson that was learnt by all during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said reports on the nursing workforce across the world point to a dire and chronic shortage of nurses.

“Never has the time been more apt to invest more in nursing than right now.

“International Nurses Day presents an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible work of all the nurses; their selfless contribution to saving lives and providing quality care to all.

“To reiterate the words of the ICN President, Pamela Cipriano, nursing is not a cost. It is an investment into our economy, as a healthy economy requires healthy minds and bodies to support it, making nursing’s economic and societal benefits a key consideration,” Mtshali said.

The Council wished all nurses a happy International Nurses Day. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 12:05

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12 May 2024

George collapsed building death toll rises to 16

Location: News

George collapsed building death toll rises to 16

As rescue and recovery efforts continue into the sixth day at the site of the collapsed building at Victoria Street in George, the number of deaths has risen to 16.

In a statement issued on Sunday morning, George Municipality confirmed 16 deaths, with 36 people still unaccounted for, and 14 in hospital.

“The Joint District Operations Centre adheres to a stringent double verification protocol to ensure the accuracy of the reported numbers. This is done in close collaboration with recovery teams, hospitals and forensic services.

“We urgently call for professional psychosocial support practitioners proficient in Chewa, Portuguese and Shona languages to assist survivors and their families. Interested practitioners can contact Kholiswa Jobela at 078 210 5972 or Apolus Swart at 061 504 4205,” the municipality said.

READ | Emergency personnel "true heroes" as 36 pulled from building site

The municipality has commended emergency services and firefighters, and everyone supporting the rescuers.

“Your strength and dedication is truly inspiring.” – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 10:55

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12 May 2024

SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba

Location: News

SMMEs gear up for Africa’s Travel Indaba

With just one day to go until the start of Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) 2024, over 120 hopeful and excited small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) are gearing up for the highlight of their marketing calendars.

Themed, 'Unlocking Opportunities', the renowned Africa Travel Indaba, which will take place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, from 13 to 16 May 2024, is expected to connect the tourism industry with unlimited opportunities.

The event is expected to be attended by 9 000 delegates from over 25 countries.

Acting CEO for Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN), Sibusiso Gumbi, said of the 120 SMMEs, 15 are KwaZulu-Natal-based SMMEs, which are part of TKZN's Tourism Enterprise Development Programme.

Gumbi said the SMMEs will be using every opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services to the thousands of domestic and international travel buyers attending the indaba.

“These fledgling businesses exhibiting on the TKZN stand have an integral part to play in the growth and development of the tourism sector. SMMEs not only contribute to job creation but are important for bringing new products to market and creating jobs,” Gumbi said.

Whilst most outbound travel is dominated by corporates, Gumbi noted that 80% of those serving the inbound market are small owner-managed operations.

“In fact, small businesses account for more than 80% of the tourism industry as a whole.

“We want SMMEs to grow into substantial players in this critical sector of our economy. However, we know transformation will not occur spontaneously but requires deliberate and sustained effort from all stakeholders.

“For this reason, we have implemented various programmes to ensure that our SMMEs get the much deserved and needed support. Enabling SMMEs to attend ATI is one of the ways in which we assist emerging tourism businesses,” Gumbi said.

EThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development and Planning Committee Chairperson, Thembo Ntuli said the city’s economy will benefit immensely from hosting this four-day event.

“Hotel occupancy is expected to be between 85% and 95%. The total expected spending is estimated at R177 million, contributing R439 million to eThekwini’s GDP with 796 jobs to be created,” Ntuli said. SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 05/12/2024 - 09:17

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10 May 2024

Part of Gauteng’s Winnie Mandela drive reopened

Location: News

Part of Gauteng’s Winnie Mandela drive reopened

Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has officially reopened the southbound section of the road connecting the N1 and N14 highways as the comprehensive upgrade of the entire seven kilometre Winnie Mandela Drive nears completion.

The reopening of the ongoing reconstruction project of Winnie Mandela Drive (K46) in Diepsloot, located in the Fourways area, north of Johannesburg is expected to alleviate congestion in the area.

On Thursday, the MEC highlighted the road's crucial role in linking Gauteng, underscoring its social significance, economic impact, and facilitation of traffic flow from Pretoria to Sandton via Diepsloot.

"Upon completion, this artery will enable commuters to travel directly from Fourways to Pretoria via the Winnie Mandela Drive route,” she said.

The road that is nearing completion has already catalysed several planned developments, including mixed-use activities within Steyn City, expected to spur job creation and bolster Gauteng's economy.

Key contributor Steyn City Properties (Pty) Ltd is investing 30%, as per the Implementing Agency Agreement, ensuring active participation of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) contractors, empowering emerging contractors, and promoting job creation.

"This initiative aligns with our vision of bringing essential services closer to residents and demonstrating improved service delivery. The K46 Phase 2 project stands as a testament to our commitment to enhancing the quality of life of the people of Gauteng," the MEC said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 09:12

956 views

10 May 2024

No lack of investor confidence in SA – Minister Ntshavheni

Location: News

No lack of investor confidence in SA - Minister Ntshavheni

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshaveni, has reiterated government’s stance that “there are no investors leaving" the country in droves.

This as some media reports stated earlier this month that Shell is leaving South Africa after operating in the country for over 100 years.

The Minister was speaking on the sidelines of the Presidential District Development Model (DDM) Imbizo held at Kuruman in the Northern Cape on Thursday.

“There are no investors that are leaving the country in droves. You are dealing with commercial transactions which companies look at. One company comes out, another one comes in.

“[There was] a story that VW was leaving South Africa. VW just reinvested R4 billion preparing for a new line of auto-manufacturing vehicles that are coming in 2027 to 2029. So, it’s commercial transactions that happen globally. Every business looks at their own opportunities and says what’s in their own interest and it doesn’t mean it’s a reflection on the investor confidence in the country,” she said.

The Minister said investments “continue to flow into this country” – citing the Boegoebaai green hydrogen project as an example.

“I could churn out the numbers that are invested. The President has mentioned Boegoebaai. There are international investors that have partnered with us on Boegoebaai and there are South African companies themselves.

“What’s important is when your own businesses invest in your own country – that’s most significant than anything else because it shows the international community that we have confidence,” she said.

In the State of the Nation Address (SONA) earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted that green hydrogen and electric vehicle manufacturing are receiving particular attention.

“We are going to set up a Special Economic Zone in the Boegoebaai port to drive investment in green energy. There is a great deal of interest from the private sector to participate in the boom that will be generated from green hydrogen energy projects,” the President said at the time.

Load shedding and logistics

Addressing the challenge of load shedding and the issues in freight rail to businesses, Ntshavheni said government is steadily working on those challenges.

“Three months ago, the media was saying load shedding is making sure that investors leave but we have handled load shedding up to where we are [more than a month without load shedding].

“There are notions that we are burning diesel. We are not burning diesel. Eskom has told us that they are switching off some [generating units]. They are putting some in maintenance early because we’ve got excess power.

“We have been dealing with the logistics issue with Transnet in Durban in particular and they are back on speed in terms of the backlog that they faced. So, there is no lack of investor confidence in our country.

“In terms of the World Bank, we are still rated the largest economy in Africa…and we compete with other countries toe to toe in terms of attracting investments,” Ntshavheni concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 09:37

603 views

10 May 2024

W Cape Education urges parents to apply for Grades 1 and 8 before closing date

Location: News

W Cape Education urges parents to apply for Grades 1 and 8 before closing date

The Western Cape Department of Education has urged parents to apply for Grades 1 and 8 in 2025 before the online window for late applications closes on 12 May 2024.

Since the on-time admissions window for parents applying for a place for their child in Grade 1 or 8 in 2025 closed on 12 April, the provincial department said it received late applications for an additional 11 464 learners.

This brings to 114 144 the total number of learners whose parents have submitted applications for Grades 1 and 8 in 2025.

“We thank the parents who have already applied so far, as they are helping us to plan better for a place for their child in a school next year,” the department said.

According to data, 87% of applications have been captured on the online system by parents themselves.

The online admissions system is zero-rated and does not use any data.

However, if parents need in-person help capturing their application, they can visit their education district office for assistance.

Parents of Grade 1 and 8 learners, who did not apply before 12 May, will need to contact their district office for assistance as soon as possible thereafter.

“We urge parents not to wait until the last minute to apply,” the department said.

The window for Grade R applications and transfer requests for Grades 2 to 7 and 9 to 12 will run from 1 to 16 August.

Parents are reminded that they will only need to drop off their certified hard copies once they have received an offer from a school and accepted the offer.

The outcomes of the on-time applications online will start trickling in from 30 May and parents must accept or decline offers before 14 June.

The department is also encouraging them to confirm their choice of school speedily when they have received offers from multiple schools.

“These parents are essentially ‘double parking’ on the system, stopping schools from offering these places to other applicants until they make their choice.”

If a parent has not confirmed their choice by 14 June, the system will automatically confirm their top-ranked school that has made an offer and all other offers will then be removed, so that those places can be offered to other learners.

“Parents who do not receive an offer on 30 May should not be disheartened. Places always open up as parents confirm their final choices. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to place every learner whose parents applied on time as quickly as possible,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 10:35

298 views

10 May 2024

NERSA approves Sasol Gas application

Location: News

NERSA approves Sasol Gas application

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has approved Sasol Gas (Pty) Ltd.’s application for a maximum price of gas for the period 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.

The Energy Regulator said the maximum gas price is expected to facilitate the achievement of the policy imperatives contemplated in the Gas Act’s objectives.

“Sasol Gas applied for a maximum price determined on the basis of a ‘cost-plus’ principle set out in the 2023 Methodology. The effective date of the approved maximum prices of gas will be 01 June 2024. The approved maximum prices of gas will remain effective until the date of approval of other maximum prices by the Energy Regulator,” NERSA on Friday.

The application for a maximum price of gas has been approved as follows:

Maximum price of gas of R84/GJ per annum for end-user customers for the period 1 July 2024 to 30 September 2024;
Maximum price of gas of R79.80/GJ per annum for Traders and Resellers of gas for the period 1 July 2024 to 30 September 2024 and that a minimum of 5% discount from a maximum gas energy price be provided to traders and resellers;
The quarterly adjustment of the maximum price with a three-month lag in its implementation until 30 June 2025.

“The approved maximum price is exclusive of VAT. NERSA's decision implies that the maximum price level approved is fair and reasonable, after it has taken into consideration the provisions of the Gas Act of 2001 and the associated regulations,” the Energy Regulator said.

The detailed decision and reasons for the decision document regarding the above decision is available on the NERSA website at www.nersa.org.za. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 14:11

376 views

10 May 2024

KZN Premier receives provincial allocation of Home Affairs mobile offices

Location: News

KZN Premier receives provincial allocation of Home Affairs mobile offices

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Ncube-Dube has described the allocation of new Home Affairs mobile trucks as a game-changer in the provision of government services.

Dube-Ncube made the remarks when she received the provincial allocation of Home Affairs mobile offices that were unveiled by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Mokopane, Limpopo, this week.

READ | Mobile Home Affairs offices to bring convenience for Mokopane residents

The unveiling of 100 new mobile offices on Tuesday is part of the Home Affairs Hybrid Access Model, which expands services to areas, where the department footprints is limited.

On Friday, Nomusa-Dube received 16 of the 100 mobile offices allocated to KwaZulu-Natal.

Speaking at the event held at Hoy Park Stadium in Durban, Dube-Ncube said the day marks yet another milestone in the quest to bring dignity to the people of the province.

“What we are seeing here today is just another milestone for us [and] our people in the townships and far-flung areas who have not been able to reach Home Affairs. Today, they will be able to reach Home Affairs.

“This is a game-changer in the provision of Home Affairs services. We are here to wage a war against the inaccessibility and unavailability of government services for our people,” Dube-Ncube said.

Dube-Ncube said with the allocation of the new fleet, people can now walk to a Home Affairs office and apply for identity documents and passports.

The Premier said many people have been complaining about long queues at Home Affairs offices, especially in Umngeni, Durban central and Pinetown.

“With these mobile offices, our people... [can] wait for the trucks to come near their areas where they will be able to do their ID and passport applications or birth certificate registrations. Each truck is fully equipped and caters for people with disabilities and the elderly,” Dube-Ncube said.

IMAGES | Mobile offices handed over in KZN

She said with services being brought closer to where people reside, this will curb the unauthorised practice of people paying for spots in queues outside the offices.

The additional trucks will bring the total number of mobile trucks in the province to 30. Members of community safety will accompany the trucks, to ensure their protection from the criminals, while bringing services in various areas.

The Premier expressed her appreciation to the President and Motsoaledi for allocating mobile offices to the province.

She said the relevant provincial MEC will collect and dispatch the mobile offices to the districts.

Provincial Manager for Home Affairs in KwaZulu-Natal, Cyril Mncwabe, said the trucks will be distributed to Home Affairs offices located in five district municipalities. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 14:29

220 views

10 May 2024

President mourns passing of retired ConCourt Justice Yvonne Mokgoro

Location: News

President mourns passing of retired ConCourt Justice Yvonne Mokgoro

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed sadness at the passing of retired Constitutional Court Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, who was also an esteemed member of the Order of the Baobab.

Mokgoro, 73, passed away on Thursday, 9 May 2024, following an extended illness after a car accident.

“On behalf of government, President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to Prof Job Mokgoro and the late Justice’s immediate and extended family, as well as her many associates in the legal fraternity in South Africa and abroad,” a statement from the Presidency read.

Mokgoro was a judge of the Constitutional Court of South Africa from its inception in 1994 until the end of her 15-year term in 2009.

She was South Africa’s first black woman judge to sit on the Constitutional Court’s bench.

The Justice obtained a Bachelor of Jurisprudence (B Juris) degree at the then University of Bophuthatswana (now North West University) in 1982, a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) two years later, and a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in 1987.

She also studied at the University of Pennsylvania in the United States, where she obtained a second LLM degree in 1990.

Throughout her legal career, she taught several courses, including Constitutional Law, Human Rights Law Jurisprudence, History of Law, Comparative Law, Criminal Law, Private Law and Customary Law at a number of universities in South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States and the Netherlands.

“She wrote and presented papers, and participated in a myriad of national and international conferences, seminars and workshops in South Africa and internationally, mainly in sociological jurisprudence and particularly on human rights, and customary law, focusing on the impact of law on society generally, and women and children specifically,” said the Presidency.

In 2015, she was inducted as a member of the Order of the Baobab in Bronze for her excellent contribution to the field of law and administration of justice in a democratic South Africa.

President Ramaphosa said: “Justice Mokgoro’s passing deprives our nation of a formidable intellect and impeccable jurist, who served our democracy at its very inception and through the years that followed.

“As we recall the inauguration of our founding President Nelson Mandela 30 years ago on this day, 10 May, we count his appointment of Justice Mokgoro to the Constitutional Court as one of the critical, transformative decisions he exercised in those early days of our liberation.”

As a black woman judge, President Ramaphosa said Mokgoro was a pioneering embodiment of and contributor to the transformation of the country and the legal system and new jurisprudence that enabled transformation.

“Justice Mokgoro distinguished herself as an academic, a justice of our apex court, Chairperson of the South African Law Commission and as a strategic advisor to a diversity of boards in different sectors.

“Her insightful and principled counsel lives on in the thousands of legal careers she shaped in the course of her academic endeavours.

“She has left us under very tragic circumstances, and we, therefore, join the family in their sadness and their prayers that this beloved mother, patriot, leader and citizen of the globe will rest in peace,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 11:45

264 views

10 May 2024

Gauteng legislature committee approves safety plans for elections

Location: News

Gauteng legislature committee approves safety plans for elections

The Gauteng Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has expressed confidence in the ability of the province’s law enforcement agencies to effectively manage any threats to the election process.

The committee has approved the safety and security plans designed to ensure a safe and secure environment during the National and Provincial Elections scheduled for 29 May 2024.

The plans were presented by the provincial Department of Community Safety and the Provincial Police Commissioner.

Committee chairperson Bandile Masuku said given the crime rate in Gauteng, which is South Africa's largest voting province, the committee had expressed concerns about the impact this might have on the upcoming elections.

To address these concerns, Masuku said both the Department of Community Safety and Provincial Police Commissioner outlined their comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety of voters and the smooth operation of the election process.

Masuku said the Department of Community Safety shared its approach to managing traffic, ensuring road safety, facilitating the free flow of traffic, escorting ballot papers, increasing police visibility, and preventing crime.

WATCH | Briefing on plans to ensure safe and secure elections

Gauteng Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni also detailed how the South African Police Service (SAPS), in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, plans to maintain public order during the election period through crime prevention, combatting and investigation, and other security measures.

“The goal is to create a secure environment where voters can exercise their constitutional right to vote without fear or intimidation. Following these presentations, the committee expressed confidence in the ability of the law enforcement agencies in Gauteng to effectively manage any threats to the election process,” Masuku said.

READ | Delivering free and fair elections

The committee also issued a warning to anyone who might consider disrupting the elections.

“Law enforcement will be on high alert and any criminal activities related to election disruptions will be dealt with firmly and legally,” Masuku said.

The committee encouraged all registered voters in Gauteng to turn out in large numbers to exercise the hard-earned constitutional right to vote for the political party of their choice. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 11:48

37 views