SA News

11 April 2024

Growth of artisanal and small-scale miners key to transformation

Location: News

Growth of artisanal and small-scale miners key to transformation

Mineral Resources and Energy Deputy Minister, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, has assured artisanal and small scale miners that government will continue to provide support and assistance to facilitate their growth in the mining sector.

The Deputy Minister was delivering a keynote address at the inaugural Artisanal Small-Scale Miners and Emerging Miners Symposium hosted by Mintek in Randburg on Thursday.

“As part of government’s efforts to grow a globally competitive and transformed mining sector, the department…introduced the artisanal and small-scale mining policy in 2002. At the core of this mining policy is the need for all stakeholders to collaborate and work together on the training and development of artisanal and small-scale miners to mine the marginal deposits that are considered less valuable by large mining companies.

“As part of DMRE’s [Department of Mineral Resources and Energy] efforts aimed at facilitating and opening up funding opportunities for these miners, in January this year, the department published an invitation for artisanal miners and small-scale miners to apply for the funding designated to assist with financial provision for rehabilitation and capital equipment,” she said.

Some 21 companies have been shortlisted to receive funding and added to that, the department has launched a R400 million exploration fund to assist in exploration and discoveries and increase junior miners, amongst others.

She emphasised that it is the duty of the industry and organisations like Mintek (South Africa’s mineral research and technology organisation) and government to ensure that the mining sector is transformed.

“All of us here should ask ourselves what legacy are we going to leave. If we don’t want to be part of transforming the sector, who else is going to do that because we are given that responsibility of transforming the sector.

“How are we going to do it? We must support small scale and artisanal miners. It should not be the responsibility of a single person; it should be our responsibility. The fact of the matter is that our current development will be spearheaded by [Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises] including the artisanal and small-scale miners,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 12:16

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11 April 2024

Mashatile, CoGTA and businesses to convene dialogue to strengthen local government

Location: News

Mashatile, CoGTA and businesses to convene dialogue to strengthen local government

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in partnership with the National Business Initiative (NBI), will hold a dialogue to enhance service delivery through strengthening local government in cooperation with the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA).

The discussion will revolve around co-creating a functional and efficient society, and how the public and private sectors can collaborate to strengthen local government.

Deputy President Mashatile, CoGTA Minister Thembi Nkadimeng, and Deputy Minister Parks Tau will lead the dialogue on Wednesday, 17 April 2024 in Sandton.

“The dialogue will also see prominent government leaders across the three spheres of government, business leaders, non-governmental organisations, state institutions and international organisations come together to build a best practice forum, that will guide the public-private partnership model for a successful running of local government,” the statement read.

The Presidency described this engagement as an important step towards implementing the District Development Model (DDM) strategic partnership framework.

The Deputy President is tasked to assist the President in the rollout of the DDM through effective coordination of the different spheres of government, which will improve the functioning of municipalities and address community concerns.

“In this regard, the desired output of the dialogue is a collective implementation plan anchored on the DDM. It is within this context that a call for partnerships and collaborations is pursued, to harness all society’s efforts through the cooperation between the National Department of Cooperative Governance and the NBI.”

According to the statement, the dialogue will reflect on the achievements of the last 30 years of freedom and democracy as well as build on the good work going forward towards the seventh administration. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 12:08

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11 April 2024

Well wishes for Muslim communities

Location: News

Well wishes for Muslim communities

President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his well wishes for a blessed Eid ul Fitr to Muslim communities around South Africa.

Eid ul Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadaan observed by Muslim people around the world.

“The holy month of Ramadan encompasses spirituality, personal introspection and good deeds that contribute to the wellbeing of Muslims and people other faiths alike. At a time when there is so much wrong with the world, at a time when human suffering, hardship and injustice is laid bare, the spirit of Ramadan inspires us all.

“May today be a joyous celebration that will sustain the faithful for another year of devotion and social upliftment,” President Ramaphosa said in a statement on Thursday.

At the beginning of the holy month of Ramadaan in March, President Ramaphosa paid homage to Muslims across the world facing challenging times.

“We remember that for millions of people, Ramadaan is being observed under conditions of conflict, war, displacement and oppression. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the peoples of Palestine, Yemen, Sudan, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Western Sahara, Mali and others - for whom this holy month is a time of great hardship and suffering,” President Ramaphosa said at the time. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 09:13

287 views

11 April 2024

Dodgy COVID-19 border fence companies lose appeal application

Location: News

Dodgy COVID-19 border fence companies lose appeal application

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed the dismissal of an application for special leave to appeal related to the construction of the border fence between South Africa and Zimbabwe at a cost of R40 million.

The application, brought by Caledon River Properties and Profteam CC, was aimed at overturning a High Court decision to strip them of profits earned from the construction of the fence.

The judgement was handed down by the Supreme Court of Appeal.

“The SIU welcomes the Supreme Court of Appeal’s order, which enforces the implementation of the SIU’s investigation outcomes and consequence management to recover financial losses suffered by the State due to negligence or corruption,” the SIU said.

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the two companies were contracted by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) to construct the razor mesh fence between South Africa and Zimbabwe at a cost of some R40 million.

“Soon after the fence was erected in March 2020, it started to fall apart. In July 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised [the] SIU through Proclamation R. 23 of 2020, to investigate the affairs of all state institutions in respect of the procurement or contracting for goods, works and services during or in respect of the National State of Disaster, by or on behalf of State institutions.

“The Proclamation prompted the SIU to investigate the awarding of contracts to Caledon River Properties Pty Ltd and Profteam CC.

“In March 2022, the Special Tribunal reviewed and set aside two contracts awarded to service providers. The Tribunal also ordered the service providers to be divested of the profits earned from the multimillion-rand contracts,” the unit said.

According to the SIU, the two companies then agreed to the “declaration of invalidity of the contracts due to procurement irregularities”.

“However, they appealed to the full bench of the High Court to challenge the Special Tribunal’s order, depriving them of the profits made from the impugned contracts,” the unit said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 09:35

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10 April 2024

Home Affairs clarifies misunderstanding on visas

Location: News

Home Affairs clarifies misunderstanding on visas

Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has moved to clarify a misunderstanding on the gazetted regulations recommendations on the Critical Skills and General Work Visas.

This comes after some media reports had stated that the department had done away with the Critical Skills Visa in favour of a point-based system.

Briefing the media on the Second Amendment of the Immigration Regulation 2014 on Tuesday, Motsoaledi pointed out that section 19(4) of the Immigration Act states that a Critical Skills Work Visa may be issued by the Director-General to an individual possessing such skills or qualifications determined to be critical for the Republic from time to time by the Minister by notice in the gazette.

However, section 19(2) of the Act states that a General Work Visa may be issued by the Director-General to a foreigner not falling within the category contemplated in sub-section 4 and who complies with prescribed requirements.

“Sub-section 4 is the one dealing with critical skills [and] this means general work is anything that is not covered in the critical skills list. The prescribed requirements mentioned in the Act are found in regulation 18 (3) of the previous regulation before the amendments.” Motsoaledi said.

He emphasised that the department has not cancelled the Critical Skills Work Visa but has changed the manner in which the visa was previously operating.

“In the past, a critical skills list visa was issued every four years, and the Minister of Home Affairs is supposed to gazette skills that are critical to the economy of the country. But Home Affairs does not have the capacity, nor the knowledge, nor the skills to know what is required.

“What Home Affairs does is go to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). The DHET usually asks the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), and the council will work with other institutions, including labour market surveys, to put up a list of skills which they think are critical for the economy of the country,” Motsoaledi explained.

The Minister also noted that critical skills are not necessarily referring to important skills or prestigious skills like some people believe.

“A critical skill is that which is critical for the functioning of the economy but there are few South Africans who can do that work, and so we are forced to go beyond the borders of this country to look for those people with such skills.

“Once the profession we have got appears on that critical skills list, which would have been gazetted by the Minister of Home Affairs, you get a letter of employment, then Home Affairs is forced to give you a Critical Skills Work Visa,” Motsoaledi explained, adding that the visa is one of the easiest to give, as it only requires a profession.

On the General Work Visa amendment, Motsoaledi said employers are no longer required to go to the Department of Employment and Labour, but the visa would be approved through a point-based system.

“We are going to give you points, and on the basis of that point you have to reach a particular mark, then you get your visa,” the Minister said.

The Minister said the point-based system will consider at least six criteria, including age; qualifications; language skills, work experience; offer of employment; and the ability to adapt within the Republic.

However, Motsoaledi said the department is considering replacing the ability to adapt within the Republic with income or salary being offered to an individual.

New work visa regulations withdrawn

Meanwhile, Motsoaledi announced the withdrawal of the new work visa regulations, which were gazetted on 28 March 2024 for public comments, a day before the closing date for public comments on the draft policy.

This follows the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) meeting held last week, where the process was questioned and NEDLAC demanded the withdrawal of the regulations.

“These regulations are being withdrawn in the government gazette, simply to rectify this small error, not that we are going to change them. In the process we will change other smaller issues which we have picked up which may not [have] been understood," he said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 09:06

858 views

10 April 2024

DIRCO dismisses reports on tense relationship between SA and EU

Location: News

DIRCO dismisses reports on tense relationship between SA and EU

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has denied allegations of strained relations between South Africa and the European Union (EU).

This follows certain media reports that alleged that South Africa did not respond to the EU’s requests for a high-level summit, leading to speculation about tensions between the two sides.

There were also allegations that South Africa reportedly ignored the request for an EU summit for a year.

However, DIRCO and the delegation of the EU to South Africa said they “regret the misrepresentation” made by the media outlets.

“We would like to reject the claim made by these media outlets that the Republic of South Africa has not responded to several requests by the European Union to hold a bilateral South Africa-European Union Summit during 2023,” the statement read.

On the contrary, the department said South Africa and the EU have maintained a regular exchange throughout 2023 to prepare for their bilateral summit.

This includes a Ministerial Forum in South Africa in January 2023, bilateral contacts at the Heads of State level, and ministerial visits to both Pretoria and Brussels.

The department believes that those contacts have been intensified and strengthened since the beginning of 2024 through a Bilateral Meeting between Minister Naledi Pandor and High Representative Josep Borrell Fontelles on the margins of the G20 Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Brazil.

According to the department, the relations have also been reinforced by Deputy Minister Alvin Botes’s visit to Brussels to participate in the Indo-Pacific Forum and the visit of EU Ambassadors from the Political and Security Committee to Pretoria.

The Director-General of the DIRCO, Zane Dangor, hosted the Bilateral Political and Security Dialogue Forum and the Human Rights Dialogue, along with his counterparts from the European Union (EU) in Pretoria.

He also participated in the Minister’s meeting with EU Ambassadors in Cape Town.

The department said that it was in this context that they reject the claim made by the media outlets that the delays to the summit are sending a negative signal about future relations between the EU and South Africa.

“The above-mentioned regular high-level visits and engagements illustrate the strength, depth and wide-range scope of the strategic partnership between the European Union and South Africa.

“Against this backdrop of partnership and dialogue, and in a decisive year for democracy and multilateralism across the world, South Africa and the European Union continue to work closely together and, as part of it, to identify a suitable date for their bilateral summit,” the department explained.

Ambassador of the EU to South Africa, Sandra Kramer, also took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to dismiss the allegations.

“This is false and misleading indeed. South Africa and the EU are working closely towards holding a summit. A quick check-in with me or @Zwandid [Zane Dangor] would have confirmed that for you,” she added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 10:31

678 views

10 April 2024

President Ramaphosa, President Masisi to visit bus accident site in Limpopo

Location: News

President Ramaphosa, President Masisi to visit bus accident site in Limpopo

President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Botswana counterpart, President Mokgweetsi Masisi, will on Thursday visit the site of a bus accident in Limpopo that claimed the lives of 45 people.

A bus travelling from Molepolole in Botswana to Moria in Limpopo, to celebrate Easter, plunged off the bridge along the Mmamatlakala Pass on 28 March 2024.

The tragic crash claimed 45 Botswana Easter pilgrims, with an eight-year-old being the sole survivor.

According to the Presidency, the Heads of State and Government will commence the visit in Limpopo with a closed briefing by officials in Mokopane before visiting the accident scene along the R518.

“President Ramaphosa conveyed condolences on behalf of the government of South Africa to Botswana following the tragic accident of a bus transporting Easter pilgrims to Moria,” the statement read.

The closed session briefing by expert officials will take place in Mokopane at 10:30am, followed by a bus accident site visit by the two Presidents at Mmamatlakale Bridge in the afternoon. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 14:24

258 views

10 April 2024

1 000 permanent officials appointed for the Correctional Services

Location: News

1 000 permanent officials appointed for the Correctional Services

The Department of Correctional Services’ National Commissioner, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, has approved the permanent appointment of 1 003 learners as correctional officials for the 2024/25 financial year.

According to the department, the move is a demonstration of government’s foremost priority of creating opportunities for young people and supporting them to access work opportunities.

This means the youngsters, who took part in the 12-month Correctional Services Learnership NQF Level 4 programme in 2022 and were subsequently hired as auxiliary support officials on a contractual basis, have now been offered permanent positions starting from 1 April 2024.

The learnership programme also includes practical training at correctional centres.

As per the statement, 466 correctional officials were appointed in the Western Cape, 214 in KwaZulu-Natal, 107 in the Eastern Cape, 75 each in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West, 69 in both Free State and the Northern Cape, 64 in Gauteng and eight at head office.

Thobakgale believes the appointments will strengthen security at correctional facilities.

“These appointments will go a long way to strengthen security in correctional centres and ensure more boots on the ground. This serves as a direct response to contributing to a just, peaceful and safer South Africa through effective and humane incarceration, and the rehabilitation and social reintegration of inmates,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 15:38

108 views

10 April 2024

uMhlathuze Municipality called to improve security measures

Location: News

uMhlathuze Municipality called to improve security measures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GabiK
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 12:53

119 views

10 April 2024

E-toll payments soon a thing of the past

Location: News

E-toll payments soon a thing of the past

By the end of this week, Gauteng road users will no longer be charged for the use of the e-toll network.

This comes after Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga published in the Government Gazette a notice concerning the withdrawal of the toll declaration of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP), popularly known as e- tolls.

“This declaration will be effective on 11 April 2024 at 23h59, which means that from 12 April 2024, road users will no longer be charged for the use of the e-toll network.

“It is important to note that, while these roads are no longer going to be tolled, the benefits of improved roads remain and that the gantries that have been installed for use on this scheme will continue to be used for other functions, such as fighting crime,” Chikunga said on Wednesday in Centurion.

The Minister explained that the obligation to pay e-toll remains until midnight on 11 April 2024.

“Road users will not be required to do anything when e-tolling is cancelled. Importantly, ‘current valid accounts’ can still be used for payments at toll plazas and other value-added services (i.e. parking). This is critical for the ongoing, long-term benefit of interoperability.

“The tag beeps will stop after midnight on 11 April 2024. The gantry lights and cameras will remain on for road safety purposes. The e-toll website will be updated with respect to the cancellation, including Mobility/Tag account functionality for services, i.e. interoperability and parking, etc.

“The e-toll stores will remain open as the tag can still be used for interoperability, account queries and other potential transport related services that will be determined in due course. The e-toll branding will be removed in phases,” the Minister said.

E-toll invoices will be rolled up until the last day and issued up until this period.

Due to potential delays in the postal system, invoices will still be received some time after 12 April 2024. However, no transactions post-midnight on 11 April 2024 will appear on the invoice or statement.

Although, the system of e-tolling was implemented after some consultation had taken place, it aggravated a lot of the public and concerned Cabinet.

“It is a concern that led to the formation of a three-member committee – made up of the Minister of Transport, Minister of Finance and Gauteng Premier – charged by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2019 to find a solution to the impasse.

“Between myself, as Minister of Transport, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, we finally reached agreement towards the end of March on how to conclusively deal with the debt resulting from e-tolls.

“…As a result, we were able to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to formalise alternative funding solutions for the GFIP debt repayment and deal with the backlog of maintenance and rehabilitation costs.

“We agreed that the MoA would also regulate the financial and funding contribution towards the SANRAL liability in compliance with the policy objectives and institutional framework for road infrastructure management in South Africa,” the Minister said.

The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has resolved its long outstanding application for increased borrowing limits from Treasury.

This will allow the Agency to approach the market to unlock funding from the private sector to fund its existing pipeline of capital expenditure projects.

“We hope that the resolution of the GFIP funding and the resultant withdrawal of e-tolls will give Gauteng motorists and South Africans in general certainty after a long period of uncertainty.

“We understand that the resolution of this issue might have taken longer than some people wanted, but it involved complex negotiations, which were handled in a mature and professional manner by all concerned,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 11:16

147 views

10 April 2024

30 years of freedom belongs to all of us – Kodwa

Location: News

30 years of freedom belongs to all of us - Kodwa

Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa says the achievement of 30 years of freedom in South Africa belongs to each and every South African.

The Minister was speaking during the National Dialogue on 30 Years of Democracy held at Freedom Park on Tuesday evening.

The celebration commemorates the eclipsing of the separatist agenda driven by the apartheid government and the ushering in of democracy and unity in the country.

Kodwa said democracy does not belong to any government or political party, but the entire population.

“Thirty years must be a celebration not of government, not of a governing party but of all South Africans because it is… South Africans who brought about this freedom. A South African who is in the villages, who is in town, who is in urban areas must feel part of the 30 years and must be given a voice,” he said.

The Minister said the dialogue is the beginning of a series of debates that will be held in the country to stimulate conversation around not only democracy but what defines a nation.

“One notion that we must always remind ourselves… is the notion of a nation. It’s only in our Constitution of 1996, which calls upon us to build a nation of all South Africans and the idea of a nation had never existed before.

“There are significant moments that define a nation, from a Sports, Arts and Culture perspective… we have seen what our national teams have done recently. We must celebrate significant moments that define us as a nation; one of which is the national flag.

“We are united around the flag. We are united around the national anthem. These are the important milestones that define this notion of a nation,” he said.

Turning to the upcoming National and Provincial Elections, the Minister emphasised the importance of the right to vote and the responsibility it bears.

“A right to vote is not just enough. It’s important that you must understand the manifesto of a party because… any party and leader that wins any election must give expression to the Constitution.

“Failure to give expression to the Constitution will result in issues… [of] people protesting, people just electing leaders on the basis of emotions, people electing leaders on the basis of populism and rhetoric. But it’s important that people must elect leaders who give expression to the Constitution…which states 'building a non-racial South Africa, which is united and all peoples belong to it'.

“People deciding not to vote must never be an option because an option to vote is a right that was denied for many years. I call upon all South Africans to exercise their right to vote and elect people that will give expression to the will and aspirations of the community,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 11:05

76 views

10 April 2024

Municipality fined R150m for contravening water and environmental laws

Location: News

Municipality fined R150m for contravening water and environmental laws

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has welcomed the heavy fine imposed on Govan Mbeki Local Municipality for polluting water resources and contravening environmental legislation.

Govan Mbeki Local Municipality in Mpumalanga province was fined R150 million for five counts relating to contravening the National Environmental Waste Management Act and National Water Act.

The Bethal Regional Court in Secunda found the municipality guilty of causing significant pollution to the environment, interfering with waterworks, pollution of water resources, an act that detrimentally affects a water course, and failure to comply with compliance notices.

This comes after a series of intervention measures undertaken by the department against the municipality since 2019, in line with the Constitution and the Intergovernmental Framework.

Water and Sanitation Director-General, Dr Sean Phillips, said in December 2019 and March 2020, the department issued the municipality with directives to make representations addressing the risk assessment, intervention and potential rehabilitation plan, and to implement all the recommendations in respect of the underlying problem in their area of jurisdiction.

However, the municipality failed to respond and adhere to the conditions of the directives issued to them within the stipulated timeframes.

“In November 2020, the municipality compiled an assessment report and intervention plan with an approved budget for the commencement of a rehabilitation project in the area, however, no rehabilitation was implemented,” Phillips said.

Phillips commended the enforcement team, saying the judgement has asserted the department’s role as a regulator of the water and sanitation sector.

“It has been our resolve to take all transgressors of the National Water Act to task and send a strong message that if people and institutions do not comply, we will not hesitate to act, without fear or favour. We want to strengthen our role as a regulator of the sector in line with all the prescripts,” Phillips said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 09:56

162 views

10 April 2024

Call for public comments on money laundering regulations

Location: News

Call for public comments on money laundering regulations

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has invited public comments and written submissions on draft amendments to the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Control Regulations.

“The draft amendments aim to strengthen South Africa’s system to combat money laundering and terrorist financing by enhancing the reporting of the conveyance of cash or bearer negotiable instruments into or out of the Republic,” National Treasury said on Tuesday.

The invitation for comments was published on 8 April 2024 via Gazette Notice 50450 no 4712.

The draft amendments are in terms of section 77(5)(a) of the Financial Intelligence Centre Act, 2001 (Act No. 38 of 2001 – ‘the FIC Act’).

“The draft amendments are proposed to be made in terms of section 77(1) of the FIC Act, read with section 30 of the FIC Act, to the Money Laundering and Terror Financing Control Regulations.

“Section 30 of the FIC Act provides for a requirement to report the conveyance of cash or bearer negotiable instruments into or out of the Republic to the FIC,” National Treasury said.

The objective of section 30 of the FIC Act is to ensure that information relating to the cross-border movement of cash and bearer negotiable instruments is made available to the FIC.

The FIC currently receives reports on cross-border electronic funds transfers (section 31 of the FIC Act).

In addition, the FIC receives reports on large cash transactions (section 28 of the FIC Act), suspicious or unusual transactions (section 29 of the FIC Act) and property that is linked to persons or entities who are subject to targeted financial sanctions (section 28A of the FIC Act).

“The proposed draft amendments are aimed at strengthening the country’s financial system and improve its resilience against abuse by money launderers and terrorist financiers. It is critical to the effectiveness of the FIC’s operational capabilities that the information it receives concerning cross border financial flows be expanded to include cross-border movement of cash and bearer negotiable instruments.

“This is envisaged to strengthen the FIC’s ability to detect possible suspicious or unusual activity and to disseminate the relevant information to investigating and prosecuting authorities. Section 30 of the FIC Act empowers the Minister to prescribe a threshold amount that will trigger reporting under this section.

“The Minister sets this amount through regulations that will support the implementation of reporting under section 30 of the FIC Act. The Minister proposes that the threshold for reporting under section 30 of the FIC Act be set at R24 999.99,” National Treasury said.

This means that persons who convey R25 000 or more into or out of the Republic will be required to report this under section 30 of the FIC Act.

Section 30 of the FIC Act also empowers the Minister to prescribe the information that must be included in a report on the conveyance of cash or bearer negotiable instruments.

“This information must be sufficient to provide the FIC with the necessary transparency and traceability information concerning the cross-border movements of cash and bearer negotiable instruments.

“A report under section 30 of the FIC Act must be made to a person who is authorised by the Minister to receive such a report. The Minister, after consulting with the South African Revenue Service (SARS), has determined that reports under section 30 can be integrated in reporting under the Customs and Excise Act of 1964,” National Treasury said.

To this end, the Minister intends to authorise Customs Officers to receive reports on the conveyance of cash or bearer negotiable instruments, either physically at ports of entry and exit, or electronically through the traveller declarations system that SARS has developed for this purpose.

The proposed Regulations:

(a) prescribe a threshold amount that will trigger reporting under section 30 of the Act;

(b) prescribe the information that must be included in a report on the conveyance of cash or bearer

negotiable instruments; and

A copy of the Regulations and the Explanatory Memorandum are available on the National Treasury website: www.treasury.gov.za.

Written comments and submissions may be submitted to: Commentdraftlegislation@treasury.gov.za no later than 19 April 2024. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 09:34

38 views

9 April 2024

Treasury releases R372 million for municipalities affected by floods

Location: News

Treasury releases R372 million for municipalities affected by floods

The National Treasury last month released R372 million from the Municipal Disaster Response Grant (MDRG) as an intervention for municipalities affected by floods in recent times.

This is after Treasury approved an allocation of R1.844 billion for the 2023/24 financial year to address the effects of disasters across multiple provinces.

South Africa has been hit by more heavy rain, leading to various floods in KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Western Cape since April 2022. This week rain caused havoc in the Western Cape with many schools across the province closed on Monday.

According to the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Thembi Nkadimeng, these funds are earmarked to facilitate urgent repairs, reconstruction, and infrastructure rehabilitation.

“The focus is to ensure access to clean, reliable water and essential government facilities for affected communities,” she explained.

The Minister was addressing the media in Vryheid, KwaZulu-Natal, on Tuesday, where she released details of the funds disbursed to municipalities and provinces for disaster interventions.

Nkadimeng announced that 199 projects across various municipalities in seven provinces have already been approved, with a total allocation of R372 001 000.

These include 65 projects in KwaZulu-Natal, 36 in the Eastern Cape, 30 in the Western Cape, 29 in Free State, 19 in Mpumalanga, 18 in Limpopo, and two in the North West.

Nkadimeng assured South Africans that the allocation of disaster grants comes with stringent reporting and compliance measures to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilisation of funds.

“Organs of state are mandated to submit monthly, quarterly, and annual reports to the NDMC [National Disaster Management Centre], covering both financial and non-financial aspects of their disaster management initiatives.”

In addition, to oversee the implementation of projects and ensure adherence to quality standards, the NDMC, Provincial Disaster Management Centres (PDMC), Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency (MISA), and relevant sector departments conduct regular site visits to municipalities.

“Through these concerted efforts, we strive to ensure that projects are completed efficiently and that affected communities receive the necessary support to recover and thrive.”

Warning systems

Meanwhile, she said government is continuously improving early warning systems in collaboration with the South African Weather Service and other stakeholders.

“Furthermore, we are dedicated to having greater transparency, accountability, and engagement with our communities.”

The Minister said through concerted efforts and collaborative initiatives, her department is determined to build a more resilient and responsive disaster management framework that prioritises the needs and concerns of communities and empowers them to weather the storms that may lie ahead.

“I also want to take this opportunity to urge our people to heed the weather-related early warnings provided by disaster personnel and take the necessary preventative action even if it means just staying indoors or away from raging rivers.

“Early warnings are a vital component of disaster preparedness and can save lives by providing crucial information and allowing individuals to take proactive measures to mitigate risks and minimise harm.”

Impact

According to the Minister, the impact of disaster in South Africa is far-reaching.

“It is important that we acknowledge the gravity of the situation we have faced since 2018 as a result of national disasters such as drought and COVID-19.”

She also described the 2022 KwaZulu-Natal floods as one of the most significant natural disasters in the history of the country.

“These disasters have not only left a trail of destruction in their wake but have also broken family structures, disrupted communities, endangered livelihoods and put a lot of strain on our existing infrastructure.”

Meanwhile, she said the aftermath serves as a reminder of the challenges in the collective pursuit of improving disaster preparedness, response, recovery and moving towards a more resilient state.

“Working through the NDMC, we have managed to allocate funds through the grants to disaster-stricken areas, thereby playing a crucial role in facilitating the recovery and rebuilding process. These funds are not merely financial assistance, but rather they represent hope, resilience, and the promise of a better tomorrow.”

While government strives to accelerate response and recovery efforts in the aftermath of disasters, she acknowledged the frustrations that communities often endure.

“We understand the immense challenges and hardships that accompany such trying times, and we empathise with the uncertainties and anxieties that our fellow South Africans may experience.

“We wish to reassure all South Africans that we are committed to enhancing our systems and processes for disaster response. We recognise the critical importance of continuously improving our capabilities and mechanisms to better serve and support our communities during times of crisis.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 13:03

452 views

9 April 2024

SA’s democracy restored the dignity of millions

Location: News

SA's democracy restored the dignity of millions

South Africa's democracy has restored the dignity of millions of South Africans and changed the lives of its citizens for the better, says Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa.

Addressing the launch of national Freedom Month in celebrating 30 Years of Democracy, the Minister urged South Africans to acknowledge the remarkable progress made since the dawn of democracy in 1994 as the country commemorates this significant milestone.

“Our journey has been marked by monumental achievements; from the dismantling of apartheid to the establishment of a constitutional democracy founded on the principles of equality, justice and human rights.

“We have witnessed the triumph of hope over despair, and the resilience of the South African spirit in the face of adversity.

“From inheriting a divided country, with gross inequalities in every aspect of life, we have done much to bridge this divide. We are also aware that there is much more still to be done, as the injustices and imbalances caused by apartheid could not all be resolved within 30 years,” Kodwa said on Tuesday at the Freedom Park and Museum Amphitheatre in Pretoria.

He highlighted the progress that has been made in the democratic South Africa as stated by President Cyril Ramaphosa when he delivered the State of the Nation Address in February.

“Our economy is today three times larger than it was 30 years ago. The number of employed South Africans increased from eight million in 1994 to over 16.7 million today. According to Census 2022, 88.5 percent of people in the country now live in formal housing, compared to 65 percent in 1996.

“South Africa’s social protection policies and programmes have been implemented to reduce poverty and vulnerability. South Africa has the most extensive HIV treatment programme in the world, which continues to save millions of lives.

“In sport, our transformation programmes are being implemented, as you see in our champion teams, such as the Springboks, whose players are truly representative of the nation they represent,” the Minister said.

As the country celebrates its successes, the Minister emphasised that the challenges that lie ahead should be confronted.

“Despite the progress we have made, we cannot ignore the persistent inequalities that continue to plague our society. Economic disparities, social injustices, and systemic barriers still hinder the realisation of our collective aspirations.

“We cannot claim true freedom and democracy until every South African, regardless of race, gender, or socio-economic status, enjoys equal opportunities and access to basic services.

“As custodians of this democracy, it is our duty to address these inequalities and to build a more inclusive society where every individual can thrive and fulfil their potential,” he said.

Three decades ago, South Africa embarked on a journey that fundamentally transformed the fabric of society, a journey that was paved with sacrifices, struggles, and unwavering determination.

On 27 April 1994, a large majority of South Africans stood in long queues to vote in democratic elections for the first time.

"Our road to democracy required untold sacrifice, and many paid the ultimate price for us to be free. The sacrifices made to bring that day to fruition live within our hearts and minds, therefore we will always be indebted to those who went before us.

"The freedoms we enjoy were built on the backs of heroes at home and abroad. We truly stand on the shoulders of giants, their legacy is our freedom, and we must honour it by continuing to build a just and equal society," the Minister said.

He said the gains of democracy stand in opposition to fascism, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), lawlessness, crime, inequality, corruption and other social ills.

Celebrating the constitution as the supreme law

This year, South Africa also commemorates the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the Constitution as the supreme law of the country.

“Our rights are protected under our constitutional democracy, which promotes inclusivity, equality, non-racialism, non-sexism, national unity, social cohesion, justice and diversity.

“In celebrating 30 years of freedom and democracy, we must also reflect on the values that have guided us thus far; reconciliation, unity, and nation-building. It is only through a commitment to these principles that we can overcome the divisions of the past and forge a common future based on mutual respect and understanding.

“As we navigate the challenges of the present and the uncertainties of the future, let us draw strength from the lessons of our past and the resilience of our people,” the Minister said.

Kodwa called on the nation to once again remind the world about the importance of democracy and freedom.

“Let us recommit ourselves to the ideals of freedom and democracy that have defined our nation for the past three decades. Let us strive to build a South Africa that is truly united in its diversity, where every citizen is empowered to contribute to the advancement of our society. And let us never forget the sacrifices of those who came before us, who fought and died so that we may live in freedom and dignity,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 13:15

399 views

9 April 2024

International messages of support on launch of Freedom Month

Location: News

International messages of support on launch of Freedom Month

Several international nations have joined a chorus of voices in commemorating and congratulating South Africa as the country celebrates 30 years of freedom this year.

The launch of Freedom Month was held at Freedom Park on Tuesday morning in Pretoria with much fanfare, including the unveiling of the 30 Years of Freedom logo.

Delivering her message of support during the programme, High Commissioner of Zambia to South Africa, Mazuba Bernadine Monze, encouraged South Africans to remember and speak of the historical ties that the two countries share.

During the fight for liberation, Zambia was a sanctuary for safety for anti-apartheid freedom fighters, including Oliver Tambo and former President Thabo Mbeki.

“This celebration is truly Zambia’s celebration. I bring a message that is succinct and clear to the peoples of South Africa [that] across the Limpopo lies a land that has and will continue to stand firm in solidarity and brotherhood, and that land is called Zambia. To those of you who know the story, share it. Tell it to the generations and even those that are yet to come about our deep historical ties that bind us together as countries.

“The role of Zambia in South Africa’s liberation struggle… during the dark period of apartheid in South Africa, emerged as a beacon of hope and a steadfast supporter of the liberation struggle. Please allow me to congratulate [South Africa] on this auspicious occasion and wish… the people of this great nation a happy 30th anniversary of your freedom,” Monze said.

Ambassador Enrique Orta González of Cuba praised South Africa as a “symbol of solidarity and the struggle justice” for the downtrodden peoples of the world.

The nation of Cuba contributed to the fight against apartheid by offering training, medical care and study for struggle heroes in the 1960s.

“Today, on the eve of the 30 years of democracy in this beautiful country, we can affirm that South Africa has become a symbol of solidarity and struggle for justice. We are glad to see today an apartheid free, independent, sovereign South Africa in solidarity with the people fighting for the just causes of the world – supporting Palestine, Western Sahara, Venezuela and Cuba.

“Three decades after the defeat of apartheid, South Africa has risen as an example of the global South on how a society can leave hate and discrimination behind in order to be a better country, in order to become a true symbol of reconciliation, and give voice to those who stay in silence for many years.

“Let me take this opportunity to congratulate the South African government and people on the 30th anniversary of democracy. On behalf of the government and people of Cuba, our sincerest wish is for prosperity, well being and happiness for our dear sister, the Republic of South Africa,” González said.

The High Commissioner of Lesotho, Ntsime Jafeta, noted that South Africa “defied all odds” by achieving democracy in the face of the brutal apartheid regime.

“On behalf of the government of the Kingdom of Lesotho… I wish to extend our sincere greetings and best wishes as you celebrate Freedom Month. We note with great joy and satisfaction the fact that this year’s commemoration coincides with the Lesotho bicentennial celebration to mark 200 years since the formation of the Basotho nation by King Moshoeshoe I in 1824.

“Despite your vulnerability and pressure from the apartheid regime, you defied all odds. You stood firmly on the side of freedom, peace and democracy. Let us… celebrate the gains brought by the struggles of our forebears, and ensure that sweat and blood nourish the tree that will bear the fruits of peace, democracy and justice to make the world a better place,” Jafeta said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 13:55

362 views

9 April 2024

Progress made in addressing socio-economic inequalities

Location: News

Progress made in addressing socio-economic inequalities

Government has made significant strides in addressing socio-economic inequalities through social welfare programmes in housing, healthcare, education and social services.

“Over the past few decades, the South African government has taken significant steps to address historical injustices and strive towards achieving social cohesion and socio-economic empowerment for all its citizens,” said Deputy President Paul Mashatile on Tuesday.

The Deputy President was delivering a special public lecture on the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democracy at the invitation of the University of Johannesburg’s School of Public Management, Governance and Public Policy, in partnership with the College of Business and Economics.

He also touched on the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) policies, which he believes have promoted economic transformation and ensured the marginalised become part of the mainstream economy.

To demonstrate government’s commitment to building an inclusive and growing economy, he said the state has raised R1.5 trillion in new investment commitments, of which over R500 billion has already flowed into the economy.

“We have made further strides in addressing load shedding, ensuring energy security, enhancing logistics systems, and improving ports and rail networks.”

In addition, the country’s second-in-command said government was on track to accelerate land redistribution. Black South Africans, he said, now own around 25% of farmland, while the state supported 1 000 industrialists in Black-owned firms.

However, despite these achievements, challenges remain in achieving a more inclusive and equitable society.

“The triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality, as well as corruption, continue to pose obstacles to the nation’s progress. In addressing these challenges, we are conscious that, as government, we must strengthen social compacts by working together with all sectors of society.”

Achievements

Deputy President Mashatile highlighted the achievements that have been made over the past 30 years.

These, according to the Deputy President, include investment in transport infrastructure such as the Gautrain, the Freeway Improvement Project and Bus Rapid Transport, the agricultural sector, the financial services sector as well as a thriving automotive sector.

He said infrastructure investment was key to the country’s growth and told guests that projects worth about R21.4 billion have been completed.

“I would like to see more young people and women-led businesses being involved in these projects because young people are the future of our country and women carry the hardest burden of communities.”

The Deputy President also took the time to acknowledge some of the challenges that the youth in the country face. “Hence, over the years, we have been investing in initiatives for the development of our youth and our future.”

Water and sanitation

In addition, he said government has decided to move with speed to professionalise the public sector.

“I would like to assure you and the people of our country that, as the government, we are committed to the delivery of quality services to our people.”

This includes dealing with increased water and sanitation issues, as well as the energy availability factor.

President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed the Deputy President to lead a task team on the water crisis in the country, and one of the urgent priorities is to fix the ageing infrastructure.

“We have already started this work. Just this evening, we are meeting as the Water Task Team; on Friday we will be visiting eThekwini as well as other regions later on to engage with the province as to how best we can resolve the eminent water challenge.”

Since the announcement of the Water Task Team’s establishment, his office has received numerous requests from individuals seeking to assist and collaborate with the government.

He said the Department of Water and Sanitation has already allocated R10.1 billion to municipalities through the regional bulk infrastructure grant, R4.6 billion through the water services infrastructure grant, and R1.4 billion through the municipal recovery disaster grant to address water challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 14:59

180 views

9 April 2024

SA a better place to live in since 1994

Location: News

SA a better place to live in since 1994

Marking the historic milestone of South Africa celebrating 30 years of democracy, government has highlighted how the South Africa of 1994 is significantly different to the South Africa of 2024, while also emphasising that it is a better place to live in.

Addressing the launch of Freedom Month, which coincides with the celebration 30 Years of Democracy in the country, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said since 1994, the economy has grown significantly and government has improved the educational prospects for previously disadvantaged communities. It has also supported infrastructure development programmes and social welfare initiatives.

“In 30 years, we have achieved what few dared to dream. We know there are more hills to climb because South Africans aspire for a better future and a prosperous South Africa. The South Africa of today is not only built by government but also built by the private sector, labour and civil society.

"The South Africa of today... is where the size of the economy has more than tripled since 1996, where the collection of revenue from our tax collectors moved from R143 billion in 1996 to over R2.1 trillion last year,” Ntshavheni said on Tuesday.

The Minister said the National Student Financial Aid Scheme has played an invaluable role in supporting access to higher education.

“South Africa today is a South Africa where Mam Mkhize’s children can go to a university or a tertiary institution paid for by government, without needing to apply to a Minister for permission to access a university because they were previously excluded to attend universities. South Africa today is where a young child from Soweto can dream to be a pilot or a robotics mechanic.

“The South Africa of today is where children who go to school receive three meals at school because there is a school feeding scheme, which ensures that no child goes to bed hungry,” the Minister said.

Through various initiatives like the National School Nutrition Programme, Early Childhood Development, the SAFE schools sanitation programme and the Second Chance programme for matriculants, government is working to ensure that the constitutionally guaranteed right to quality education for all is achieved.

“The South Africa of today is where the women of Bizana in the Eastern Cape know that tomorrow they will be able to trade their goods internationally because they have been supported as Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs).

“The South Africa that we celebrate embraces not only all in our diversity - but acknowledges the challenges that confront us, which we together as government, business, civil society and our international partners work together to confront on a daily basis,” the Minister said.

This year marks 30 years since millions of South Africans cast their ballot in the first democratic election of 1994 for the first time in their lives.

The 30-year celebration in the country will be premised on celebrating the gains, achievements, and the milestone of 30 years of democratic rule as well as living in a free and democratic society.

Annually, the month of April is designated as Freedom Month in South Africa.

“As we mark these celebrations, which are going to be a yearlong celebration, we are going to be telling stories of the people of South Africa and the narrative of what government has done since 1994.

“We invite all South Africans to join in the national celebration of our 30 years. Let it be a celebration of all of us; a celebration of what we are still to achieve as we work in partnership to grow our country,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 14:33

130 views

9 April 2024

Eskom’s interventions to improve energy supply commended

Location: News

Eskom's interventions to improve energy supply commended

Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has commended the interventions implemented by Eskom, which have contributed to the improvements of the country’s energy supply security.

“These interventions come on the back of the Energy Action Plan... It is [like] an accumulation of these efforts over a period, which is now going close to two years,” Ramokgopa said on Tuesday.

Briefing media on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan, Ramokgopa said some of Eskom’s interventions include the improvement of plant conditions, the establishment of the War Room, increased governance controls, aggressive cost cutting, environmental compliance, and achieving coal stock days, amongst others.

Ramokgopa attributed the ramping up of planned maintenance to Eskom's leadership, and those who have volunteered their skills and services to serve the country.

“The ramping up of planned maintenance is very important. If you look at the period December 2023, going into January of 2024, we took out 18% of the total generation capacity - about 9 000 megawatts at a go, for planned maintenance.

“We are beginning to see these machines coming back into service. They are coming back on load and adding to the capacity of the grid, and this is helping us to address the demand. More of these machines would come on stream as we go towards the winter period,” Ramokgopa said.

The Minister said the establishment of the War Room was to ensure that Eskom can focus on dealing with planned maintenance.

On addressing the issues of inadequate capacity, the Minister re-emphasised that Eskom is not a "silver bullet", and that the country’s problems with loadshedding will not be solved by Eskom alone.

“Eskom is a major player in the short-term, and I think [we] need additional generation capacity, hence the need to expedite that engagement with independent power producers to the extent that Eskom can make a contribution [and] we are able to get them on stream, [and] on loan, as soon as possible.”

Ramokgopa stressed the importance of ensuring that the entity gets the right people into the right positions.

“We also accepted that there’s a need, from time to time, to draw from external experts in areas of deficit in relation to expertise. We... also [have] to ensure that there [is] a culture of accountability and consequence management, whereby when people commit to a certain target, and if those targets are not met, first we try to assist, then [we] need to ensure [we] introduce consequence management,” the Minister said.

Highlighting some of the success achieved so far, Ramokgopa reported that National Treasury has relaxed some requirements, which will speed up procurement.

“The allocation of outage budgeting has improved, leading to improved outage readiness. We are receiving a lot of collaboration among external stakeholders with a willingness to assist Eskom,” Ramokgopa said.

Medupi Unit 4 is on track to be commissioned in August

Meanwhile, Ramokgopa announced that Medupi Power Station Unit 4 is on track to be commissioned in August 2024, following the delivery of a second-hand generator stator last month.

“The second-hand generator stator was delivered to Medupi Power Station on 5 March 2024. The unloading from the multi-axle vehicle was successfully executed on 11 March 2024.

“Koeberg unit 2 is on track to return to service in September 2024, and Kusile unit 6 is planned to synchronise in September 2024. Kusile remains on track with units synchronising between November 2024 and April 2025,” the Minister said.

The Minister also noted that the coal stockpiles are at healthy levels and none of the stations are below compliance required levels. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 12:46

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9 April 2024

Reflecting on the achievements of 30 years of freedom

Location: News

Reflecting on the achievements of 30 years of freedom

As the country reflects on 30 years of freedom and democracy, government is taking stock of the gains that have been made, its achievements and milestones, as well as what could have been done better over the last three decades.

“As government, we should count the successes and achievements that we have managed to achieve at this point in time. In areas where we have tried to intervene [and] the interventions were not successful, we now have the experience and innovation to resolve them,” Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) acting Director General, Nomonde Mnukwa, said in an interview with SAnews.

South Africa's Census 2022 national results show an increase in the proportion of households that had access to piped water inside their dwelling, from 32.3% in 2001 to 46.3% in 2011 and to 59.7% in 2022.

The data show that in 2022, over four-fifths (82.4%) of households in the country had access to piped water either inside their dwelling or inside their yard.

The proportion of households using electricity as the main source of energy for lighting increased significantly from 58.1% in 1996 to 94.7% in 2022.

“The majority of us grew up in areas where water access was a dream. We never thought we would have access to water. We never thought that we would have access to electricity. We never thought we would have access to free education. There are a number of non-fee paying schools that we have and a majority of those schools are contributing more than 60% of the Bachelor’s passes for matrics,” Mnukwa said.

She said South Africa reaching 30 years of democracy and freedom is a dream that has come true.

“We have come a long way. This is the year that we look back, particularly to 1994 when South Africa held its first democratic elections. It was one of those dreams that came true for us to be able to cast our vote,” Mnukwa said.

South Africans will once again go to the polls on 29 May 2024 to cast their votes in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

This year marks 30 years since millions of South Africans cast their ballot in the democratic election of 1994 for the first time in their lives.

The 30-year celebration in the country will be premised on celebrating the gains, achievements, and the milestone of 30 years of democratic rule as well as living in a free and democratic society.

Annually, the month of April is designated as Freedom Month in South Africa.

“As South Africans, we need to remember where we come from. We come from an era where people needed to carry a dompass to go out in public. There were areas that we could not access as the segment of the population, which comprised the majority of the population,” Mnukwa said.

She emphasised that when South Africa was transitioning to a democratic country, it managed to avoid a war.

The country attained democracy and freedom though peaceful negotiations and talks.

“There were some careers that we couldn’t do because they were restricted to the chosen few. There were some areas that we could not stay in despite the fact that we were South Africans. It is something to celebrate, it is something to talk about and remember but it is mostly something that we can reflect on as individuals,” the acting DG said.

In his 2024 State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa said government’s policies and programmes have over the course of 30 years lifted millions of people out of dire poverty.

By 2010, the poverty rate had dropped to 60.9%, and it continued to decrease, reaching 55.5% in 2020, as reported by the World Bank.

“One of the most visible, impactful and meaningful achievements in the first three decades of freedom has been in providing homes to the people. Today, nearly nine out of every ten households live in a formal dwelling.

“At the end of apartheid, only 6 out of 10 people had access to clean drinking water. Today, that figure has increased to nearly 9 out of 10 South Africans.

“We have introduced laws and undertaken programmes to enable black South Africans and women to advance in the workplace, to become owners and managers, to acquire land and build up assets. The proportion of jobs in executive management held by black people increased almost five-fold between 1996 and 2016,” the President said.

In addition, government has built more hospitals and clinics, especially in poor areas, providing better and quality healthcare to more South Africans. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 11:31

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8 April 2024

SA welcomes resolution on human rights situation in occupied Palestinian territory

Location: News

SA welcomes resolution on human rights situation in occupied Palestinian territory

South Africa has welcomed the adoption of a United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution regarding the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.

According to reports, the resolution covers the rights of the child and inclusive social protection; the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination; human rights in the occupied Syrian Golan, and Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, and the occupied Syrian Golan.

The resolution called for ensuring accountability and justice. It was passed with 28 of the council’s 47 Member States voting in favour, 13 abstentions, and six against.

The countries that abstained from voting on the resolution were Albania, Benin, Cameroon, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, France, Georgia, India, Japan, Lithuania, Montenegro, the Netherlands, and Romania.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has since described the move as “historic”.

“This is the very first time that the UNHRC has taken action on the unprecedented human tragedy taking place in Gaza, where at least 32 975 Palestinians have been killed, including more than 14 500 children, since Israel launched its onslaught over 180 days ago,” the statement read on Monday.

In calling for accountability and justice, the department said the resolution emphasises the need to ensure that all those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law are held to account.

It also highlights the need to ensure the provision of an effective remedy for all victims and the need to pursue practical steps to prevent future violations and international crimes.

The department stated that the resolution acknowledges the significance of the order issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding provisional measures in the case brought by South Africa against Israel concerning the application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.

South Africa, the department said, believes that it is only through ensuring accountability and justice that the impunity accorded to Israel that has entrenched the ongoing unlawful occupation can finally be brought to an end.

“It, therefore, remains crucial that Israel respects and implements the ICJ’s orders, together with United Nations Security Council resolution 2728 (2024) demanding an immediate and lasting ceasefire, which resolution A/HRC/L.30 will no doubt contribute to its securing.”

During the debate on the resolution, South Africa’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi, stated: “The international community can no longer choose to apply a parallel system of international law to Israel, nor can we be complicit in facilitating its actions. For international law to be credible, it must be uniformly applied and serve the victims designed to protect.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 10:04

581 views

8 April 2024

Woman sentenced for R16m theft

Location: News

Woman sentenced for R16m theft

Lizette Marielle Steyn, 56, has been sentenced to at least 12 years imprisonment after being found guilty of 85 counts of theft.

The former Finance and Administration Manager of AgriCAD was sentenced in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court.

National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana explained that Steyn was arrested in July last year.

“Steyn was employed by AgriCAD [and her] responsibilities, amongst others, were to load the creditors for payment on the business bank account monthly and do the day-to-day bookkeeping and accounting. As such Steyn had full access to the AgriCAD ABSA bank accounts.

“During her employment, Steyn would change the details of one of the AgriCAD ABSA bank accounts and replace it with her six different personal Capitec accounts.

“From 27 October 2020 until 09 May 2023, 85 different payments of over R16 million for the company were paid into her personal bank accounts. With the funds, Steyn installed solar panels in her house and bought luxury items, a caravan, and a vehicle for her son-in-law. She also paid for her daughter’s wedding, and her family’s weekends away and holidays,” she said.

Mahanjana said Steyn pleaded guilty to charges against her and explained that she “stole the money to pay debts because her husband lost his job”.

The thief then asked the court to consider leniency upon sentencing due to her ill-health and the fact that she is a first time offender.

“However, the prosecutor, advocate Rachelle van der Walt, argued that as much as Steyn was a first-time offender, her offences were committed over three years. Furthermore, Steyn was in a position of trust, her employer trusted her, but she betrayed that trust and was not hesitant to hide her dishonest conduct.

“She opened Capitec accounts in her name which she used to receive the stolen money for luxurious items and extravagant lifestyles. Therefore, Adv van der Walt asked the court to consider long-term imprisonment when imposing the sentence.

While delivering the sentence, Magistrate Ignatius du Preez said Steyn was left with no option but to plead guilty.

“Her change of heart and acknowledgement of her criminal conduct originated from being caught and not from her true inner feelings of regret. Therefore, she had no choice but to concede defeat.

“Steyn committed the offence when she was at an age where it was expected of her to be able to distinguish between right from wrong, but she failed dismally. Furthermore, courts are increasingly faced with the situation where offenders with medical challenges commit serious offences, and such illness cannot be used as a license to commit crime,” du Preez said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 10:25

628 views

8 April 2024

Department weighs in on consequences of teenage pregnancy

Location: News

Department weighs in on consequences of teenage pregnancy

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has raised concerns about the economic consequences of teenage pregnancy in the country.

Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, said the phenomenon of teenage pregnancy has devastating social and economic costs.

“Early pregnancy in South Africa forces many girls to drop out of school and trap others in a cycle of poverty and leaves most stigmatised by society for being teenage mothers or forced into early marriages,” Dlamini-Zuma said.

Dlamini-Zuma said the country continues to show the highest rate of teenage pregnancy globally, with nearly one in four girls falling pregnant before the age of 20 years.

Dlamini-Zuma said South Africa has recorded an estimated 150 000 girls between the age group of 10 and 19 years old, falling pregnant in the 2022/23 financial year.

“What is particularly disheartening is that individuals who became parents during this period were hardly teenagers, with some cases reported constituting statutory rape. The phenomenon of teenage pregnancy has devastating social and economic costs.

The Minister reiterated that working together with both public and private sector stakeholders to act against those who continue with the act of impregnating teenage girls by reporting them to law enforcement authorities is the first step towards ending teenage pregnancy, while providing psycho-social support is particularly important.

She said the prevention of teenage pregnancies will contribute to the promotion and protection of the rights of the girl child, among others.

Dlamini-Zuma also emphasised the need for coordinating and redirecting efforts to the hardest hit areas, with a specific focus towards prevention, early intervention, and impactful evidence-based programmatic interventions.

Comprehensive gender-based violence prevention strategy

Dlamini-Zuma said government has developed a Programme of Action (POA) aimed at tackling the issue of teenage pregnancy by implementing a Comprehensive National Gender-Based Violence Prevention Strategy (CNPS).

Through consistent outreach programmes focusing on young mothers, Dlamini-Zuma said government, working with stakeholders, has put together tailor-made stakeholder programmes that are focused on the prevention of teenage pregnancy.

These include Ezabasha Dialogues and Risiha-Community Based Prevention, and social behavioural change programmes, which include ChommY and You Only Live Once (YOLO) programmes, which educate young people between the ages of 15 and 24 years about HIV and Aids, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy and being agents of social change.

READ | Zulu to relaunch SheDecides Movement

Dlamini-Zuma reiterated government’s calls on families, communities, religious and traditional leaders to support the Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) of teenagers to prevent unintended/unwanted pregnancies. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 12:18

445 views

8 April 2024

SIU probes to be launched at Tokologo and Sol Plaatje municipalities

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SIU probes to be launched at Tokologo and Sol Plaatje municipalities

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed a proclamation authorising the Special Investigating Unit to investigate allegations of serious maladministration in the Tokologo Local Municipality in the Free State province and the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality in the Northern Cape.

According to the SIU, the proclamation authorises the corruption busting unit to, in the main, probe street lights and electrification projects at both the municipalities.

“The SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by the department or the State. The scope of the investigation also covers any unlawful or improper conduct by department officials or employees, the applicable suppliers or service providers, or any other person or entity which has caused or may cause serious harm to the interests of the public. Furthermore, the investigation will also establish whether there was any unlawful appropriation or expenditure of public money.

“The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that took place between 1 April 2015 and 05 April 2024, the date of the publication of the Proclamation or before 1 April 2015 and after the date of the Proclamation that are relevant to, connected with, and incidental to the matters or involve the same persons, entities or contracts investigated,” the SIU said.

The unit said it will refer any potential criminality uncovered during the investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority.

“In addition to investigating maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud, the SIU will identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses.

“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the NPA for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 12:55

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