SA News

5 March 2024

KZN government engages businesses amid municipal strike

Location: News

KZN government engages businesses amid municipal strike

The KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has assured the business community in eThekwini that the provincial government is dealing accordingly with the strike by eThekwini Municipality workers.

READ | eThekwini Municipality obtains court interdict against striking workers

Dube-Ncube and eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda met with the business community, led by the KZN Growth Coalition, the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and individual businesses to brief them on government’s interventions to deal with the strike which started on 27 February 2024.

The meeting comes after a meeting held between the provincial government and the municipality to devise practical solutions to protect infrastructure and citizens from what the province has called “clear sabotage”.

Highlighting the progress made to deal with the situation, Dube-Ncube said a technical task team, including officials from all spheres of government, has been established to implement coordinated interventions by the relevant departments.

To address the challenge of intimidation and attacks on non-striking workers, Dube-Ncube said the Metro Police and private security have been sourced to escort staff to service delivery points, including the clearing of roads, electricity faults, water leaks, burst pipes and refuse removal.

“Both the municipal and provincial law enforcement agencies are on high alert and will act without any fear on the acts of impunity. We are confident that this intervention will allow staff to respond to reservoirs overflowing or running empty, valves being closed, burst pipes and water leaks.

“As part of the business continuity plan, the municipality has made provision for some key employees to work remotely. Contractors have also been engaged to do some work, such as refuse collection and attending to water and electricity faults,” Dube-Ncube said.

A team has also been set up to analyse all video footage of the destruction of property, including the abuse of State vehicles that were in the hands of municipality officials who participated in the illegal strike.

The Premier said this process is well underway, warning that “culprits are being identified through internal processes and they will be arrested soon”.

She said the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has provided a four-person team to fast-track the disciplinary action of those who would be found to have been involved in untoward behaviour.

“The eThekwini leadership will meet with the leadership of the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) to explain to them that no amount of grievances should result in destruction of infrastructure and denying citizens their rights to basic services.

“Importantly, those who are involved in this anarchy will be liable for litigation for damages. Our legal units have been tasked to analyse that area,” Dube-Ncube said.

The municipality has further engaged the Department of Water and Sanitation, COGTA and Umgeni-Uthukela Water to provide technical assistance and additional water tankers.

Through Operation Sukuma Sakhe, the Premier said all field workers have been activated in the province to conduct clean-up operations throughout the city, as part of Operation Mbo (an integrated service delivery events within a particular area to ensure services are delivered to many community members at the same time).

On the strike, Dube-Ncube said the municipality has not received a memorandum of grievances or petition from SAMWU, apart from the Ekurhuleni Municipality pay scale, which was submitted to the Office of the City Manager on 27 February 2024.

“Based on the information submitted, it would seem that SAMWU is demanding pay parity to that of Ekurhuleni Municipality and/or implementation of Category 10 pay scales. The matter regarding the implementation of the Wage Curve is still under negotiation at national level, as it is a national competence,’’ Dube-Ncube said.

The municipality has since obtained an urgent interdict in the Labour Court, which prohibits the striking employees from intimidating, harassing, assaulting, threatening or perpetuating acts of violence against employees, service providers or those accessing offices or workstations.

“We want to emphasise that all spheres of government are working together to resolve this challenge and we are in discussion with the national government to support the city and province through the provision of intelligence services and deployment of additional police officers in key hotspots to enhance safety and security capacity,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 14:33

442 views

5 March 2024

Mashatile welcomes finalisation of key Bills in Parliament

Location: News

Mashatile welcomes finalisation of key Bills in Parliament

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has welcomed the finalisation of key Bills by the National Assembly during the first three months of this year.

These include the Public Administration Management Amendment Bill, the Public Service Amendment Bill, the Statistics Amendment Bill, the General Intelligence Laws Amendment Bill and the Electoral Matters Amendment Bill.

According to a statement by the Presidency, the public service Bills have now been referred to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) for consideration.

“As Section 75 of the Constitution Bills, the other Bills have been referred to specific parliamentary portfolio committees for processing.”

The Constitution distinguishes between four categories of Bills involving those amending the Constitution; ordinary Bills not affecting the provinces; ordinary Bills affecting the provinces; and money Bills including those that deal with appropriations, taxes, levies or duties.”

Meanwhile, 16 Bills have been sent to the President for assent by the end of February.

Deputy President Mashatile, in his capacity as leader of Government Business in Parliament, described the development as significant progress, which takes the nation closer to the fulfilment of the mandate of the sixth democratic administration.

“The significance of the legislative programme is that it is a linear and revolving responsibility to both enact legislation and fine-tune existing laws.

“We are confident that at the end of this term, all priority legislation will have gone through the rigorous parliamentary process, passed the constitutional master and become laws of the Republic after the President has assented to the Bills,” he said.

As the leader of Government Business, the Deputy President promotes accountability by the Executive.

Among other things, he tracks the submission of responses to Parliamentary questions for oral and written replies and commitments made.

He also monitors the programming and attendance of Members of the Executive before Parliament and portfolio committees, the implementation of the legislative programme and the processing of priority Bills by Parliament. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 14:59

351 views

5 March 2024

Three suspects arrested in connection with VBS corruption

Location: News

Three suspects arrested in connection with VBS corruption

Three suspects, aged 33, 42 and 64, were arrested during an early morning raid in Limpopo by the Serious Corruption Investigation of the Hawks.

The 64-year-old suspect, who was previously the Chief Financial Officer and Acting Municipal Manager for the Greater Giyani Local Municipality, was arrested in Lulekani.

He was arrested on charges of contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), corruption and money laundering.

The 42-year-old suspect was arrested in Giyani. She was a Budget Manager and Acting Chief Financial Officer, and currently the Chief Financial Officer, of Giyani. She is facing charges of flouting the MFMA.

The third suspect, aged 33, is a businessman. He was arrested in Muhuya village, Thohoyandou, on allegations of money laundering.

During 2017, two of the suspects invested a total of R148 656 282.00 into VBS Mutual Bank. Large amounts were paid to VBS affiliated companies as so-called "commissions".

Some of this money was laundered through several bank accounts, including that of the third suspect.

From the suspect’s company, a total amount of R87 600.00 was paid to the first suspect over a period of time as gratification, which was a great loss to the Giyani Municipality.

The trio will make their first appearance on 6 March 2024 in the Giyani Magistrates’ Court for formal bail application. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 15:02

277 views

5 March 2024

Workshop aims to provide an overview of the AfCFTA

Location: News

Workshop aims to provide an overview of the AfCFTA

South Africa’s Special Economic Zones operators and businesses are to be exposed to the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) during a workshop by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic).

The department will host the workshop in collaboration with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) at the IDC Auditorium in Sandton on Wednesday from 09:00 in the morning.

The workshop aims to provide an overview of the AfCFTA and the status of negotiations and implementation, communicate the benefits and export opportunities offered under the AfCFTA to the SEZ managers, investors and tenants and share information on incentives, customs requirements, quality standards and export finance insurance solutions.

The Special Economic Zones Programme has over the 10 years since its inception offered a conducive environment for businesses to enhance their operations. The South African government uses the SEZs as a way to attract investments in sectors with no obvious comparative advantage, or as a way of increasing value added in export activities.

According to the Deputy Director-General of Trade at the dtic, Ambassador Xolelwa Mlumbi-Peter, the AfCFTA workshop will offer an opportunity to collaborate with the SEZs and present the master plan and AfCFTA SEZ Ministerial Regulations.

The six sector master plans targeted are steel and fabrication, agriculture and agro-processing, retail-clothing textile leather and footwear, automotive industry, sugar value chain and forestry.

“The aim is to share export opportunities for the SEZs arising from the AfCFTA and to sensitise them on the benefits of exporting under the AfCFTA,” Mlumbi-Peter said.

For South Africa, the AfCFTA provides an opportunity for the private sector, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs), including youth and women owned companies to expand to new markets in East, Central, West and North Africa.

“We wish to encourage companies to produce and export value added manufactured products to support sustainable jobs to new preferential markets in the African continent,” she said.

Participants will also receive presentations from the dtic’s Export Desk, Proudly South African, Brand SA and the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS). – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 15:12

131 views

5 March 2024

eThekwini Municipality obtains court interdict against striking workers

Location: News

eThekwini Municipality obtains court interdict against striking workers

The eThekwini Municipality has obtained an urgent Labour Court interdict against striking employees, including the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) members, who are taking part in the ongoing illegal and unprotected industrial action.

The interdict prohibits any unlawful conduct, acts of violence and interference with the city's activities, services and operations.

In a joint media briefing held on Monday to update the public on the ongoing strike, which started on 27 February 2024, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube issued a firm warning that lawlessness will not be allowed to prevail.

Dube-Ncube noted that while one of the rights in the Constitution provides that everyone has the right to fair labour practice; right to form and join a trade union and to participate in the activities and programmes of a trade union and the right to strike, the Constitution is also clear on the limitations of rights.

“It does not give the right to infringe on the rights of other citizens or the right to destruction of infrastructure and property just because one is exercising their other right. That must be clear,” Dube-Ncube said.

Dube-Ncube said the violent nature of the strike has resulted in essential municipal services being severely impacted, as some employees are fearing for their lives after seeing their colleagues being attacked and infrastructure being vandalised.

She said the strike action came at a time when the municipality was making progress in repairing the infrastructure that was damaged by the consecutive severe disasters over the past five years, including COVID-19, July 2021 civil unrest, 2022 and 2023 floods.

Noting some of the damage caused by the strike, the Premier said there has been continued intimidation and attacks on non-striking employees, resulting in the city’s failure to respond to faults and restore basic services, including water, refuse collection and electricity in the entire city.

“Access to primary healthcare services has also been hampered by the intimidation of health workers in various municipal-run health facilities, putting the lives of ordinary citizens in danger. In the case where the public cannot access the city’s health facilities, we are redirecting them to the provincial clinics.

“We have observed with great concern the attacks of city employees at service delivery sites. Some have been shot while attending to service delivery complaints and a number of water and sanitation, electricity infrastructure, including vehicles, have been damaged or completely destroyed,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier condemned the cruel actions inflicted by strikers on patients and ordinary citizens, which has seen blockages of access to State buildings, including several clinics, potentially endangering the lives of innocent patients.

Dube-Ncube warned that the provincial government will no longer tolerate the atmosphere of fear, trespassing on premises and forceful removal of staff from their work posts, denial of patients' rights to gain access to healthcare facilities, including vandalism of critical infrastructure such as water and electricity.

“Communities who have been without water and electricity for several days are bearing the brunt of this unlawful strike action. Scenes witnessed over the past few days are pure criminality, economic sabotage and tantamount to treason.

“Government is extremely concerned and upset about the violence accompanied by intimidation and extensive damage to property caused in the name of striking workers. The municipality is currently conducting an assessment on the impact and financial implications of the strike,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 13:45

48 views

5 March 2024

Police seize counterfeit goods, dismantle illegal crossings near Beitbridge

Location: News

Police seize counterfeit goods, dismantle illegal crossings near Beitbridge

A successful operation conducted by a border police team at Musina near the Beitbridge Port of Entry on Sunday has resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods.

The team also recovered an inflatable boat believed to be used for illegal crossings of the Limpopo River between Zimbabwe and South Africa.

“During the operation, members of the SAPS OR Tambo International Airport Border Police intercepted a smuggling attempt and seized one inflatable boat, 25 litres of diesel, counterfeit cigarettes and liquor that were being smuggled between South Africa and Zimbabwe.

“Despite some suspects managing to evade arrest by fleeing on foot and crossing the Limpopo River, homemade wooden bridges used for illegal crossings were successfully dismantled during the operation,” said the police in a statement.

In a separate incident, nine male Zimbabwean nationals were apprehended by the Vhembe District Proactive Police for contravening the Immigration Act during a separate Vala Umgodi operation.

These individuals were arrested less than 10km from Beitbridge.

The Department of Home Affairs Immigration Office was engaged for immediate deportation of the illegal immigrants. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 10:59

359 views

5 March 2024

SANDF deployment not done without planning

Location: News

SANDF deployment not done without planning

By Siphiwe Dlamini

The deployment of a contingent of the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) as part of the SADC Mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) and the subsequent tragic deaths of Captain Simon Mkhulu Bobe and Lance Corporal Irven Thabang Semono have provided plenty of grist to the opinion mill.

It should. We are a democracy and this is a people’s defence force – and its role and its use should be debated.

There are major and justifiable concerns about budget implications. The lack of sufficient air cover for the mission and that this deployment might be fatally overstretching the SANDF’s capacity has been raised by some as a concern.

None of these are new concerns; successive chiefs of the SANDF have raised these precise issues in the past, along with their chiefs of service.

But these concerns ignore the reality that this deployment was not done in haste, nor without the requisite planning. There have been numerous discussions at the highest echelons of government about the need to support the SANDF in all its needs, including funding. There is a real commitment to do this.

We should also not forget three critical points in the current discourse, well intentioned or otherwise, about the SANDF.

The first is that the mission in the DRC is not solely a South African tasking but a request from the greater Southern African Development Community to ensure the stability of the region as the United Nations began its well-publicised drawdown of Monusco, its 20 year-long mission to stabilise the DRC, in December last year.

Secondly, there are other countries that will be also contributing to this mission, some of whom will be able to directly address the issue of air cover through the capabilities of their own air forces.

Thirdly, the SANDF has been part of Monusco since its inception, commanding the mission and regularly providing commanders for the smaller three-battalion strong multinational Force Intervention Brigade, the only UN force mandated to use force offensively.

The biggest issue of all though is peacekeeping. SA is a continental leader and has never shied away from the often onerous responsibility to lead these processes, participating from the front, if necessary, putting its money and its troops where its mouth is.

This is not an easy decision and it is not without risks, all of which weigh very heavily upon our commander-in-chief, President Cyril Ramaphosa; the political head; Defence and Military Veterans Minister Thandi Modise; and chief of the SANDF, General Rudzani Maphwanya, before deploying these national assets.

These soldiers are not conscripts, they are volunteers, but all of us know the risks that they will face in the field – and the sacrifices they may well be asked to make – to keep this peace.

It is easy for the keyboard warriors to argue that our horizons should be limited to our land, sea and air borders, but the reality is that the beating of a butterfly’s wings in Kivu or Goma could very well create an unstoppable tsunami in Johannesburg or Cape Town.

It’s too late to deal with an insurgency not just on your doorstep but within your borders. This is part of the rationale for the SANDF’s participation in the SADC Mission in Mozambique (Samim) to keep the insurgency in Cabo Delgado at bay.

That is the apex threat – of war and terror in our cities and countryside, but there are other threats, too, of even more refugees seeking a better life in SA, potential economic and criminal risks which put further strain on our law enforcement agencies, the home affairs department, the department of social security and, indeed, our fiscus.

It is said that a stitch in time saves nine. It doesn’t help to just create nonporous borders, where the SANDF is already performing a yeoman and unheralded service as part of the ongoing Operation Corona.

We have to try to resolve issues and create the conditions that are crucial to allowing a sustainable and enduring state of peace on the continent that could otherwise threaten the way of life we aspire to, even though they are not our direct neighbours.

It is this philosophy that has guided the SANDF ever since the days of our first commander-in-chief Nelson Mandela, when he worked tirelessly to bring peace to the Great Lakes Region.

*Siphiwe Dlamini is Head of Communications at the Department of Defence.

**This article first appeared in The Citizen on 1 March 2024.

Janine
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 09:54

317 views

5 March 2024

Task team established to clear alien invasive plants in Vaal River

Location: News

Task team established to clear alien invasive plants in Vaal River

The Ministers of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, and Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, have established a Technical Task Team to identify interventions with clear outcomes to manage the clearing of alien invasive plants at the Vaal River.

This follows public concerns relating to the use of the chemical, glyphosate, to clear alien invasive plants from the Vaal River by Rand Water.

In a joint statement, the departments said the task team, led by the Directors-General of the two departments and Chief Executive Officer of Rand Water, have identified immediate short- and long-term interventions with clear outcomes to manage the situation.

The immediate short-term interventions identified by the task team include the revision of the integrated control approach, which will assess the use of an herbicide that is registered with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.

In the medium-term, compliance and enforcement interventions will be intensified against the sources of pollution that are driving this situation, while the long-term interventions include the review of the Vaal River Catchment Strategy relating to invasive alien aquatic species, in order to implement a strategy that will holistically address the situation.

“Lastly, the refurbishment of the Rietspruit, Sebokeng and Leeukuil Wastewater Treatment Works will be fast-tracked to reduce pollution that is also contributing to the high eutrophication of the Vaal River System.

“Multiple control strategies deployed simultaneously (biological, chemical and manual removal of alien invasives) are currently under investigation by the task team since a sustainable solution is required to manage the situation,” the departments said.

The spraying of glyphosate over water hyacinth choking up the Vaal River has been stopped due to safety concerns. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 10:18

25 views

5 March 2024

Over 80 000 beds registered on NSFAS portal

Location: News

Over 80 000 beds registered on NSFAS portal

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has recorded a total of 88 705 beds that have been registered on the scheme portal and accredited for both Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and universities.

Briefing media on the student accommodation pilot project in Pretoria on Monday, NSFAS Acting Chairperson, Professor Lourens van Staden, said the Student Accommodation Unit has to date received lists from 28 out of 40 institutions, which were subjected to verification processes, in terms of funding status.

Van Staden said 10 institutions submitted their lists in batches, while others requested assistance from NSFAS in order for them to submit their lists, with some still engaging NSFAS owing to their contractual obligation.

“To date, out of 40 institutions in the pilot, 30 have placed students in accredited properties. Out of 10 institutions, five supported by the NSFAS team will continue with placements, while three are still in discussion with NSFAS. Two will submit once placements have happened,” van Staden said.

He said the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) and University of Mpumalanga will submit their lists when students are placed in accommodation.

Van Staden also reported that NSFAS, in collaboration with institutions, portal providers, and accommodation providers, is onboarding students onto the portal system to ensure that NSFAS-funded students are residing in accredited accommodation.

To date, he said, 18 institutions have onboarded students onto the portal, while the rest are yet to do so or are still onboarding.

“The NSFAS Board wishes to encourage all institutions that have not been onboarded to do so urgently, as this might impact the on-time rental payments. Equally, landlords are requested to ensure that leases that are generated through the portal are signed by all students in their residences,’ van Staden said.

No arrangements with unaccredited accommodation providers

Van Staden also put it on record that the scheme does not have any arrangements with unaccredited accommodation providers.

“Institutions apply different approaches to manage unaccredited accommodation, and it is in the resolve of NSFAS that in the near future, no NSFAS-funded student will be residing in unaccredited accommodation.

“Where accommodation providers have applied to NSFAS for accreditation, they are encouraged to consult the portal to check their statuses. Students who have been provided with accredited accommodation and are unwilling to utilise those, NSFAS and the institution will allocate transport allowance to those students,” van Staden said.

Warning against corruption and bribery

Meanwhile, van Staden has warned that NSFAS will not tolerate corruption and bribery, and anyone found in the wrong will be reported to the law enforcement agencies.

This follows a report received by NSFAS on the alleged corruption and bribery between accrediting agents and landlords.

“If this is indeed true, we wish to reiterate that this will not be tolerated by the scheme and that should anyone be found in the wrong, NSFAS will report them to law enforcement agencies. Any suspected fraud should be raised through our whistleblowing hotline, Vuvuzela, toll-free number 0860 247 653. SMS 'call back' to 30916. Fax: 086 726 1681,” van Staden said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 15:41

87 views

5 March 2024

SA commemorates World Obesity Day

Location: News

SA commemorates World Obesity Day

As the country joins the global community to mark World Obesity Day, the Department of Health has urged people to engage in regular physical activity and follow a balanced eating plan.

World Obesity Day is aimed at raising awareness and improving understanding of obesity root causes and actions needed to address them, and tackling the associated stigma.

Obesity has become one of the biggest health crises faced by people today around the world.

According to the World Health Organization, obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally, claiming at least 2.8 million lives annually, while 1 in 8 people in the world were living with obesity in 2022.

“Evidence shows that interventions (such as improved diet and physical activity) introduced to tackle obesity have the potential benefits to reduce the incidence of NCDs and its burden on healthcare spending, individuals and their families.

“The Department of Health urges people to engage in regular physical activity; drink [sufficient] water; serve the correct amount of food to avoid overeating; limit the consumption of foods and drinks high in sugar, salt and fat, and snack on fresh vegetables and fruits instead of salty snacks or sugary treats,” the department said in a statement.

The department highlighted that the rise in obesity poses a serious challenge to public health worldwide, with South Africa being amongst the countries with the highest overweight and obesity rates.

According to the 2016 national survey, 68% of women and 31% of men are either overweight or obese, while 13% of children under the age of 5 are overweight.

In terms of obesity, at least 41% of women have obesity, with 20% of them falling in the severe obesity category. In contrast, only 11% of men have obesity. The prevalence of obesity among women rose from 27% in 1998 to 41% in 2016. There was very little change in obesity amongst men, with only a 2% increase during the same period.

“These worrying figures underscore the need for effective prevention interventions to address obesity and promote healthier lifestyles and setting nutrition standards for food and beverages provided in places like Early Child Development Centres, schools, community nutrition development centres and other feeding programmes,” the department said.

The department said the increased prevalence of overweight and obesity among people contributes to the onset of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and cancer, which are currently the biggest threats to health and development among populations.

Women with obesity are at increased risk of miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, induced labour, and are less likely to initiate breastfeeding. On the other hand, obese men are at a higher risk of developing cancers of the colon, rectum and erectile dysfunction.

“The words obesity and overweight are often confused and used interchangeably. However, these are two related health conditions with slightly different meanings. Overweight is when a body mass index (a value derived from the mass and height of a person) is greater than or equal to 25, whereas obesity is a BMI greater than or equal to 30,” the department explained.

The department said while many people exercise day and night to keep fit and healthy, it is important to know the 80/20 rule for weight loss, which emphasises that nutrition contributes 80% and routine exercise contributes only 20% when it comes to losing weight.

“This means that as long as you don’t make healthier food choices, physical activities will do less to reduce obesity.

“The department urges employers to support efforts by government and other stakeholders by creating healthy and productive working environments for employees as part of health and wellness programmes.

“This includes establishing wellness centres and serving healthier food menus in their canteens,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 11:54

653 views

4 March 2024

Free State focuses on job creation

Location: News

Free State focuses on job creation

Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana says the province is hard at work to lessen the burden of unemployment.

In his State of the Province Address on Friday, Dukwana said unemployment fell from 38.5% in the third quarter of 2023 to 37% in the fourth quarter.

“Our Expanded Public Works Programme and the Presidential Employment Stimulus is a demonstration of our efforts to ignite economic growth,” he said.

Dukwana said since 2019, the province has created 282 907 work opportunities against a five-year target of 260 000 work opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

“The Presidential Employment Stimulus enabled us to benefit from the creation of 87 357 job opportunities, supporting 24 733 livelihoods and retaining 1 680 jobs in the period between April to December 2023.

“These statistics include the 6 964 Education Assistants and 8 285 General School Assistants in the Department of Education. At the core of this education programme is the placement of unemployed youth in schools.

“This further illustrates how we give practical effect to our commitment to address youth unemployment. We must strengthen the coordination and maximise our participation in this programme,” Dukwana said.

He said a strong agricultural sector is key for food security, job creation, poverty alleviation and rural development.

“Work is underway to position the Free State as the champion of the agricultural green revolution in the country. A total of 4 543 producers were trained, and 249 students graduated from the Glen Agricultural College.

“We facilitated 19 023 export certificates, 29 419 hectares of land was rehabilitated and 987 hectares was cultivated using conservation practices. This will preserve the environment and increase production of organic products.

“Work is underway to avail provincial and municipal land for youth, women, people with disabilities and military veterans for farming purposes. We will increase investment to support the commercialisation of black farmers, investment in agro-logistics infrastructure and open new markets,” he said.

Dukwana said the province is hard at work to position the Free State as the country’s central energy logistics, distribution and beneficiation hub.

“The province has immense opportunities in natural gas, solar, coal, ethanol, wind, uranium, hydropower and hydrogen to power the future of our country,” he said.

30 Years of democracy

Dukwana said with 2024 marking 30 years of freedom and democracy, there is much to take note of.

“It is a year that builds a bridge between our tragic past, encouraging present and a brighter future... With the birth of democracy, the stage was set to carve a path anchored firmly on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights,” Dukwana said.

The Premier said central to the democratic transformation process is improving the living conditions of South Africans and fostering shared economic growth.

“Driven by the relentless desire for a better life for all, we have over the past 30 years, invested time, resources and commitment in fighting the triple challenge of unemployment, poverty and inequality.

“The courage of our people continues to be rewarded. Their hopes and dreams continue to be the spark that impels us to even greater heights. Signs are everywhere that the Free State is a province on the move, confident in our actions and optimistic in our future trajectory.

“We are making the most of our potential, harnessing our development efforts and leaving no one behind in a Social Compact with our people,” Dukwana said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 13:28

1190 views

4 March 2024

Government activities for the week 04 March to 07 March 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 04 March to 07 March 2024

On Monday, 04 March, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in partnership with the Department of Justice and Correctional Services will launch the 2024 Human Rights Month at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre.

Also on Monday, Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC Nonkqubela Pieters hands over industrial machines, agricultural inputs, and tools to business owners in Bathurst.

Monday also marks World Obesity Day.

From Monday, 04 March to Thursday, 7 March, the Department of Employment and Labour will be taking a basket of its services to the communities of eMalahleni Local Municipality, Mpumalanga.

On Tuesday, 05 March, the Electoral Commission will launch its annual national Civic and Democracy Education Tertiary institutions campaign to improve youth understanding and participation in the country’s democratic processes, in Limpopo.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe will deliver a keynote address at the 16th annual edition of Africa Energy Indaba in Cape Town.

On Thursday, 7 March, the District Development Model Presidential Imbizo will take place in the eMalahleni Local Municipality, Nkangala District in Mpumalanga.

Neo
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 14:19

426 views

4 March 2024

Over one million students provisionally funded by NSFAS

Location: News

Over one million students provisionally funded by NSFAS

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has received a total of 1 936 330 applications for funding, as of 16 February 2024.

Briefing the media on the registration process and payment of allowances on Monday, NSFAS Acting Chairperson, Professor Lourens Van Staden, said that of the 1 936 330 applications received, 1 244 854 are provisionally funded as of 1 March 2024, with 108 345 registrations received, 59 723 awaiting evaluations, and 94 816 awaiting supporting documents.

Van Staden said a total of 84 225 applications have been withdrawn by students, while 52 038 are in progress, and 136 468 are on the not-started status, as applicants only created profiles and did not submit applications.

“NSFAS has rejected 243 113 applications and 15 174 appeals have been lodged to date,” Van Staden said at a briefing held at the Government Communication and Information System in Pretoria.

The briefing comes after the applications for funding closed on 15 February 2024.

Van Staden said the scheme is determined to improve its systems, including applications processes, to enable a smooth and seamless application process.

The chairperson said the scheme is also committed to continue working with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to verify the financial eligibility criteria of all the applicants, by ensuring that the consent form is submitted by non-South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) applicants.

He reiterated the call to applicants to submit accurate information when applying, as this assist in reducing the timelines to make funding decisions.

Through third party verifications, Staden said NSFAS has processed about 23 000 applications per day and has prioritised applicants who have received firm offers of admission from universities, or who were enrolled at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.

Over 30 000 loan applications received

On the 2024 loan applications, Van Staden said NSFAS has received 30 728 loan applications as of 16 February 2024.

Van Staden said the scheme has pre-assessed and determined students who pre-qualify for the loan, and communication was sent to the affected students via the student portal, to confirm whether or not they were accepted for NSFAS to process their loan application.

He stressed that this is specifically for students who had applied for a bursary, but were above the income threshold for the bursary, but within the loan threshold.

“The next step would be for NSFAS to communicate with institutions, to request them to submit admission data for registered students in line with the requirements of the loan of the 70 vs 30 split in STEM [Science, technology, engineering and mathematics] and social sciences respectively.

“At the completion of this process, we envisage that a total of 31 800 missing middle students will be provided with student loans,” Van Staden explained.

The loan applications also closed on 15 February 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 14:27

879 views

4 March 2024

Progress made in reforming the public service

Location: News

Progress made in reforming the public service

President Cyril Ramaphosa has in his weekly newsletter to the nation, touched on the recent progress that has been made in reforming and professionalising the public service.

“Several important milestones have been reached in the last week as part of the work underway to reform and professionalise the public service. These developments are vital both to advancing the goal of a capable developmental state and give effect to recommendations of the State Capture Commission,” he said.

In his weekly newsletter on Monday, the President said the National Assembly had passed two important pieces of legislation that will improve the functioning of the public service, strengthen accountability and increase efficiency.

These bills, the Public Administration Management Amendment Bill and the Public Service Amendment Bill will now go to the National Council of Provinces for consideration.

Also, the Department of Public Service and Administration published a new directive to guide departments in implementing the framework for the professionalisation of the public service.

“This directive, together with the draft legislation, will have a far-reaching impact on the functioning of the public service. They give effect to some of our most important tasks.

“Firstly, these reforms will help ensure that the best people are appointed to the public service and that they are given support to perform effectively,” the President said.

He highlighted that the directive, for example, requires that a person can only qualify to be appointed to senior management in the public service if they have successfully completed the pre-entry programme known as Nyukela.

The course, which is provided by the National School of Government and takes about 120 hours to complete, aims to ensure that all applicants to senior management positions have the knowledge and capabilities they need to succeed. The course aims to ensure that prospective senior managers are grounded in the values of good citizenship, ethical leadership, and developmental public administration.

All shortlisted candidates must undertake two pre-entry assessments – a practical exercise that tests their competencies, and an integrity assessment that establishes their grasp of ethical principles and ability to take ethical decisions.

All new employees must undergo a compulsory induction programme within six months of appointment, and all current public servants must attend a compulsory re-orientation programme once every five years.

“To ensure continuous learning and development throughout a public servant’s career, every department must spend at least 1% of their wage bill on training. To support this effort, the draft legislation currently in Parliament establishes the National School of Government as a national department to provide education and training to employees in all spheres of government, including municipalities and public entities,” he said.

National School of Government

During the State of the Nation Address last year, President Ramaphosa announced that the National School of Government will work with the Human Sciences Research Council to undertake a skills audit in selected infrastructure and frontline services departments.

The first phase of the project has now been completed, giving valuable insights into potential critical skills gaps in these departments.

In infrastructure departments, for example, the report highlighted the need to improve knowledge of modern engineering practices, sustainable construction methods and environmental impact assessment.

“The results from the frontline services departments will support the work being done to improve the administration of public services and the quality of services provided. These skills audits have been well received and will help us to get the best that each public servant can offer.”

Work experience

Another important part of the most recent directive is that the requirement of work experience has been waived for entry level posts in the public service.

This must be accompanied by in-service training and support such as coaching and mentoring. Departments are also instructed to establish graduate recruitment schemes to attract young people leaving higher education institutions into the public service.

Political interference and delineation of powers

“Secondly, the reforms contained in the draft legislation will significantly reduce the potential for undue political interference in the administration of government,” President Ramaphosa said.

He further highlighted that the Public Service Amendment Bill makes a clear distinction between the powers of elected officials, such as Ministers, and professional public servants, such as Directors-General or Heads of Department.

The elected officials, legally defined as the Executive Authority, provides strategic and political direction, while heads of department are granted full administrative powers to run their departments.

“This clear delineation of powers will make for a more professional and efficient public service. It will also help to prevent the kind of undue political interference in the administration of the state that the State Capture Commission found sometimes enabled corruption. Another important change proposed in the legislation is to prohibit a head of department or an employee directly reporting to them from holding political office. This is to strengthen the distinction between political and administrative roles.”

Thirdly, the President said these reforms will improve coordination and accountability.

Among other things, the draft legislation will enable the transfer of public servants between national and provincial governments and municipalities.

This will help to ensure that people with technical and scarce skills and capabilities can be moved to where they will have the greatest impact. This is important for supporting municipalities, which often suffer from a shortage of skilled employees.

The draft legislation also assigns additional functions to the Director-General in the Presidency, in line with the National Development Plan, to create an administrative head of the public service to whom Directors-General would report on operational, organisational and administrative matters.

Corruption

Fourthly, the President emphasised that these reforms will strengthen the fight against corruption.

As part of the draft legislation, public servants who leave government may not, within 12 months of leaving, accept employment or appointment to the board of a service provider to which they were involved in awarding a contract.

They may not perform any paid work or receive any other payment. Service providers or employees who contravene this provision would have committed a crime and could be fined up to R1 million.

To improve accountability and tackle corruption, an inter-departmental task team has developed a central register to track all dismissals and resignations with disciplinary cases pending in national and provincial government. This register currently has over 12,000 records.

“Work is underway to include information from local government and public entities. This will prevent public servants with disciplinary records being appointed in another part of the State.

“All of these reforms will contribute to building a more effective and efficient state that is responsive and accountability. They will enable public servants to do their work without interference and with the necessary support. And they will provide impetus to our collective efforts to build a capable state that is better equipped to fundamentally transform and develop our society,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 14:30

430 views

4 March 2024

Gauteng emerging farmers urged to apply for funding

Location: News

Gauteng emerging farmers urged to apply for funding

Emerging farmers in the priority areas of poultry, piggery, grains, vegetables, red meat, cannabis, aquaculture, rabbit, bee farming and agri-processing have been invited to apply for funding.

This is part of the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment’s efforts to grow the agricultural sector, create jobs and alleviate poverty in the province.

The CASP which closes on Friday, is informed by the department’s elevated priority focus to maintain sustainable food security in the province.

“We are making a call to the historically disadvantaged and the vulnerable groups, our women, youth and people living with disabilities to apply for the farmer support grant and become part of our relentless fight against food insecurity,” said Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Mbali Hlophe, on Sunday.

Hlophe said the farmer support programme is aimed at providing Small Medium and Micro Enterprise farmers with a much needed boost towards their farming establishments.

The relief programme is building on its previous successes which has seen an average of 250 beneficiaries per annum empowered into the mainstream economy since its establishment in 2004.

The annual subsidy is available to groups and individuals as a once-off intervention so that the department can cover a wider spectrum of beneficiaries for reasonable impact.

To remain transparent, the process takes place under the microscope of an independent evaluation and adjudication panel.

The panel consists of professionals from various fields including economists, animal scientists, crop scientists, engineers, and food scientists.

Potential beneficiaries need to meet the following conditional requirements to apply:

• Application form must be signed and dated

• Registered business on the farmers registers

• South African Certified ID (not more than three months)

• Valid confirmation of land tenure/ownership such as tittle deeds, permission to occupy land and/or minimum five years lease agreement.

• Already farming

• Farming operation’s ability to create permanent or seasonal jobs

• In cases where the Environment Impact Assessment certificate is required, such evidence must be provided.

Once all these have been met, applications may be emailed to: GDARDFARMERSUPPORT@gauteng.gov.za.

Prospective applicants can obtain forms from the following satellite offices:

Germiston Regional Office, 247 President Street
Vereeniging Regional Office, 36 Merriman Street,
Temba Animal Clinic,Stand 16 Stellenbosch, Jubilee Road and
Bronkhorstspruit, 55 Market Street

SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 15:00

373 views

4 March 2024

Mpumalanga learners get bicycles

Location: News

Mpumalanga learners get bicycles

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has handed over 455 bicycles to pupils in Mpumalanga to use for travelling to school.

Learners that benefitted from the national Shova Kalula or Ride Easy Bicycle Programme include those in Sindawonye and Kwakwari Primary, as well as Mgudlwa, Mkhephuli, Mbedlwana, Sozilani and Hlomanani Secondary Schools in the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality.

“We hope that these means will help in them to get to and from school quicker, and that it will inspire them to pursue their educational dreams,” Chikunga said on Monday.

The national Shova Kalula or Ride Easy Bicycle Programme was initiated as a pilot project in 2001 with the purpose of promoting and maximising the use of bicycles as a low-cost mobility solution to poor communities, particularly in the rural areas.

“The Shova Kalula Programme is part of the broader learner transport programme, focusing on learners who walk less than 5 kilometre (km) and walk more than 3 km to schools. Other learners on the learner transport programme are being ferried through buses and taxis through contracts that are managed by the provinces,” the Minister said.

In addition, all provinces are implementing the National Learner Transport Policy though the National Learner Transport Programme.

“There are 900 946 learners in 5 635 schools that required learner transport to access their schools in 2023/2024 financial year. These learners have been identified by the provincial Departments of Education, which are responsible for the selection of learners to benefit from the subsidised learner transport service, in line with the National Learner Transport Policy and provincial policies,” Chikunga said.

The National Learner Transport policy recognies the deep challenges of learners who walk long distances to school, which has an adverse impact on their school attendance and performance.

“In order to deal with these mobility challenges, government has been implementing the National Learner Transport Policy to provide learners who live more than 5km [from school] with transport to school,” the Minister said.

Moloto Road

While in Mpumalanga, the Minister also conducted a site inspection of the bridge under construction along the R573 Moloto Road in the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality.

“Work on the project is progressing steadily across all the three provinces of Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo. The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) team is working tirelessly to make the road safer for road users. In Mpumalanga, Work Package 2 is currently ongoing, and it is 75% complete.

“The anticipated completion date of construction for this phase is June 2024. In Limpopo, Work Package A2 is currently underway, and it is 95% complete. The anticipated completion date of construction is February 2024. In Gauteng, SANRAL is on the verge of appointing a contractor to start with works on this section of the project in 2024,” the Minister said.

SANRAL has invested R4.5billion in this project over five years.

“About 12 500 jobs are expected to be created throughout the project duration. In line with SANRAL’s Transformation Policy, the inclusion of youth- and women-owned businesses will be prioritised.

“Furthermore, the roads agency has launched a programme to empower Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), headed by people with disabilities, to form part of the construction of Moloto Road.

“Nearly R130 million has also been earmarked to train prospective contractors from designated groups, to get them to the point where they are able to submit compliant, competitive and profitable tenders for such projects,” Chikunga said.

SANRAL has introduced several additional safety interventions on the R573 to minimise crashes, paying particular attention to pedestrian safety.

“So far, we have worked on the Moloto Road in Mpumalanga and Limpopo and we hope to begin work in Gauteng this year. The spend to date is R559 million on upgrading of national road R573, Section 2, Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, Mpumalanga; and R362.8 million on upgrading of national road R573, Section 3, from Slovo to Siyabuswa, Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 15:01

248 views

4 March 2024

Institutions submit registration data to NSFAS

Location: News

Institutions submit registration data to NSFAS

Twenty-nine institutions that have submitted registration data for catch up payment for the 2024 academic year allowances, will be paid by Friday, says the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

The acting Chairperson of the NSFAS, Professor Lourens Van Staden, said following delays in the 2024 academic year, mainly due to registration, the NSFAS board took a decision to request institutions in the interim to operate as a channel to pay the February and March allowances.

“Communication was therefore sent to all universities notifying them of this decision. We also sent another communication to indicate the 2024 academic year allowances type distribution channel.

“Financial aid managers were asked to confirm the universities allowances payment commitment dates. For Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, we will be paying through the direct payment channel,” Van Staden said on Monday.

To support institutions and students, Van Staden said the scheme made two upfront payments to all institutions, including the first upfront payment, which was disbursed on 31 January with the second upfront payment disbursed on 29 February 2024.

“These upfront payments were made to institutions for them to use the funds to distribute students’ allowances. The majority of institutions committed to paying students from the last week of February 2024,” Van Staden said at a media briefing held in Pretoria.

The first upfront payment was administered to cover the book allowance which was calculated at half of the 2023 academic year cost.

The payment included funds to cover one month of accommodation costs. For medical students, provision was made for two months’ worth of allowances, to assist select institutions that registered medical students whose academic year starts in January.

The second upfront payment includes book allowances, which is calculated for the second half of the 2024 academic year based on the 2023 payments made; accommodation allowances to cover the accommodation allowances for the second month (March) of the 2024 academic year; transport allowances, which is calculated to cover February 2024 allowance.

The NSFAS advanced an upfront payment to both universities and TVET colleges.

For universities, Van Staden said the NSFAS disbursed R2.8 billion in January 2024.

The chairperson noted that this disbursement does not include the calculation of the tranche payments, which “NSFAS will disburse at the beginning of April 2024.”

“This upfront payment covers one month of student accommodation and the book allowance. The book allowance is calculated at half of the total cost, whilst the accommodation is calculated as one month of the accommodation cost.

“For TVET colleges, a total of R580150 950.00 was paid to colleges as tuition upfront in January 2024. An additional R1 billion is earmarked for three months’ worth of allowances to be paid based on registration from the January-March period,” he explained.

He emphasised that all the upfront payments are meant to enable institutions to register all NSFAS-approved students for the 2024 academic year.

“We all know that in February, the university sector commences with its registration. This means that by the time the first payment is made (usually at the beginning of February), the majority of the students have already registered and are already attending classes.

“This is the reason why the board ensured that the upfront payments are inclusive of the registration period commencing in January for medical students in the university sector.”

He further explained that NSFAS requested institutions to pay allowances for both February and March due to challenges experienced at the beginning of the 2024 academic year, which led to delays in receiving registration data from institutions.

He said institutions were also requested to allow direct payment service providers to conduct the process of onboarding students, whilst they continue with payments.

“The direct payments of allowance for the 2024 academic year will commence in April 2024 and institutions will administer the payment of allowances for only two months (February and March) because the third allowance will be made on the direct payment platform. No exceptions or deviations will be allowed.”

Van Staden has encouraged all other institutions to submit registration data, to enable NSFAS to make a catch-up payment. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 15:12

254 views

4 March 2024

Celebrating 30 years of human rights

Location: News

Celebrating 30 years of human rights

The year 2024 coincides with several historic milestones in the nation’s fight for fundamental human rights and freedoms, says Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa.

“South Africans from all walks of life will be participating in the seventh National Elections since the dawn of democracy and the country, in April, will be celebrating 30 years of democracy in South Africa,” the Minister said on Monday in Pretoria.

He was addressing the launch of Human Rights Month, which is taking place under the theme: “Three Decades of Respect For and Promotion of Human Rights.”

Human Rights Month is observed to remind South Africans about the sacrifices that accompanied the struggle for the attainment of democracy.

“Overall, Human Rights Month serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to uphold and protect human rights for all individuals worldwide. It encourages reflection, action, and solidarity in the pursuit of a more just and equitable world.

“From 1994 to date, South Africa underwent a radical transition from the oppressive apartheid regime, with its system founded on parliamentary sovereignty, to a constitutional democracy committed to the creation of a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights,” the Minister said.

Outlining the programme for Human Rights Month, he said the commemoration of the National Human Rights Day is planned for 21 March 2024 at the George Thabe Stadium, in Sharpeville.

“The hosting of the event in Sharpeville symbolises government’s commitment to honour sacrifices made by those who fought and died for our liberation in Sharpeville and other townships across the land. It makes sense that we take the commemoration of the day to the place where it originated.

“On 21 March, the national Human Rights Day is commemorated to honour the Sharpeville massacre of 1960 where peaceful protestors marched against discriminatory pass laws and were fatally shot by police. The Sharpeville massacre stands as a potent symbol of the brutal realities of apartheid.

“Sharpeville's historical significance extended beyond its national borders, receiving global attention, which culminated in the United Nations (UN) Security Council passing a resolution condemning the killings and calling for the South African government to abandon its policy of apartheid and the UN General Assembly declaring apartheid as a violation of the UN Charter,” the Minister said.

Six years after the massacre, the UN declared March 21 to be the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

“The Sharpeville massacre galvanised the anti-apartheid movement both within South Africa and internationally. It energized resistance efforts and led to increased solidarity among activists and organizations working towards the dismantling of apartheid.

“The massacre served as a catalyst for global awareness of the oppressive nature of apartheid and prompted increased international pressure on the South African government. Over the following decades, the anti-apartheid movement gained momentum, ultimately contributing to the dismantling of apartheid in the early 1990s.”

Activities

The Minister called on all South Africans to participate in the activities planned for Human Rights Month.

“This year’s National Human Rights Day will be preceded by an International National Human Rights Conference, bringing together key stakeholders from across the globe as well as other government departments, to assess progress on the advancement of human rights since 1994.

“The Conference will be hosted by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development from the 18th to 20th of March 2024 and is premised on the department’s core mandate to uphold and administer the Constitution, deepening constitutional democracy, and promoting the values of human dignity, equality and the advancement of human rights and freedoms,” the Minister said.

Through this Conference, South Africa will conduct critical assessment of its state of human rights almost three decades into its constitutional democracy.

“There will be other activations across the country, amongst others, the Social Cohesion Dialogue to be hosted by the Eastern Cape province in Gqeberha on the 20th of March.

“Panellists in this programme include leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to building bridges across diverse communities. Amongst them will be Dr Brigalia Bam, former Chairperson of IEC and Dr Bonisile John Kani and Ms Rochelle de Kock from [the] Herald Newspaper,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 12:12

261 views

4 March 2024

Nzimande condemns student killing

Location: News

Nzimande condemns student killing

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande has condemned the killing of a University of Johannesburg (UJ) student in Braamfontein, last week Thursday.

The student was killed in a crossfire while travelling from the university to their residence in the Johannesburg central business district (CBD).

Nzimande has also raised his concern about the well-being of another student, who was also shot in the same incident, and remains in a critical condition in hospital.

The Minister sent his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased student and wished the injured student a speedy recovery.

As part of the initial response, the department said, Nzimande will contact the head of the affected academic institution, with the view to ensure that the affected students and their families are given the necessary support.

“Further to this, the Minister will also contact the Minister of Police to assess this disturbing incident and jointly implement the necessary measures to avoid a repeat of this dastardly act.

“The Minister condemns this cruel act of lawlessness and believes that as a country, we must not tolerate what seems to be a growing culture of impunity on the part of criminal elements and a blatant disregard for human life,” the department said in a statement.

Nzimande is expected to visit the families of the victims on Monday. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 13:47

21 views

4 March 2024

Probe into SANDF deaths

Location: News

Probe into SANDF deaths

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has convened a Board of Inquiry with the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) to investigate an incident which led to the deaths of two defence force members.

“The incident occurred when one of them [SANDF member] shot and killed the other with their service weapon before turning the weapon on themselves with fatal consequences,” said the SANDF of Thursday’s incident.

In a statement on Friday the defence force said it has convened a Board of Inquiry to work with the MONUSCO command to investigate the incident and the circumstances that led to it.

Meanwhile, Defence and Military Veterans Minister Thandi Modise has expressed her shock at the incident that involved the two officials deployed to the central African country.

The remains of the officials will be repatriated to South Africa in due course and all families have been informed of the unfortunate incident.

Minister Modise, the Deputy Minister Thabang Makwetla, the acting Secretary for Defence, Dr Thobekile Gamede and the Chief of the SANDF, General Rudzani Maphwanya have expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased.

Last month, the SANDF repatriated and officially handed over the mortal remains of Captain Simon Mkhulu Bobe and Lance Corporal Irven Thabang Semono to their families.

Bobe and Semono were killed and three of their colleagues injured in the DRC after a mortar bomb landed inside one of the South African contingency military bases.

The soldiers were part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) deployed to support and assist government of the second-largest country in Africa to restore peace, security and stability. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 10:17

327 views

4 March 2024

President Ramaphosa calls for ceasefire in Sudan

Location: News

President Ramaphosa calls for ceasefire in Sudan

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed a briefing by the Vice President of the Transitional Sovereign Council of the Republic of Sudan, Malik Agar Eyre Nganyoufa, on the situation in Sudan, while reiterating the call for an immediate ceasefire.

President Ramaphosa held a meeting with Nganyoufa on the situation in Sudan on Sunday.

According to the Presidency, the purpose of the meeting was to brief the President on the developments towards peace in Sudan.

“President Ramaphosa welcomed the briefing and expressed South Africa’s support for dialogue between the warring factions. The President further reiterated the call for an immediate ceasefire that will alleviate the suffering and humanitarian catastrophe facing the Sudanese people, especially women and children.

“President Ramaphosa looks forward to meeting with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of the Transitional Sovereign Council,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 10:25

261 views

4 March 2024

Another step forward for digital skills building in SA

Location: News

Another step forward for digital skills building in SA

Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Mondli Gungubele has launched the Digital Skills Forum (DSF) to lead, oversee and coordinate the implementation of the national digital skills programme.

“A critical function of the DSF is to provide strategic direction on the implementation of the digital skills programme; prioritise and coordinate areas of focus; mobilise resources in the form of expertise; funding and institutional support and monitor performance,” the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) said in a statement.

The DSF will also advise on the reconceptualisation and structuring of the digital skills development ecosystem in support of digital skills building.

On 5 August 2020, Cabinet approved the National Digital and Future Skills Framework, as developed by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.

The strategy provides a framework for the prioritisation of critical digital and future skills, as well as to ensure a coordinated and integrated implementation across government and various sectors.

“South Africa has made strides towards embracing digital technology. Government has recognised the importance of developing digital skills and has taken giant steps to bridge the digital divide.

“As such, DCDT developed the implementation programme through partnerships and collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), International Labour Organisation, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

“The National Digital and Future Skills Strategy is intended to provide a framework for the prioritisation of critical digital and future skills as well as to ensure coordinated and integrated implementation across government and various sectors,” the department said.

The National Digital and Future Skills Strategy recognises the importance of leadership and governance to ensure successful digital skills generation and development.

“The strategy proposed the establishment of the Digital Skills Forum as an institutional mechanism that will ensure a coordinated implementation of the digital skills programme.

“This is also echoed in the recommendations of the diagnostic report of the Presidential Commission on the 4th Industrial Revolution (PC4IR), which acknowledges that the skills development ecosystem is characterised by a silo mentality and expresses concerns about the speed at which entities are able to adapt and change curricula to accommodate the needs of the workplace,” the department said.

The Digital and Future Skills Strategy states that the Digital Skills Forum will provide technical digital skills support to the broader work of the Human Resources Development Council (HRDC) and ensure coordinated implementation of the digital skills programme, with secretariat support from the DCDT.

The roles and responsibilities for DSF members are as follows:

Provide technical digital skills support to the broader work of the HRDC.
Facilitate information, expertise, and knowledge sharing.
Mobilise resources to support the digital skills programme.
Advise and guide the redesigning and streamlining of the skills ecosystem.
Advise on the funding mechanism for digital skills building.
Oversee prioritisation and coordination of various digital skills initiatives.
Ensure investment in strategic projects for mass skills development.
Monitoring and evaluation of the action plan of the DSF and its technical working groups.
Endorse the recommendations of the technical working groups.

-SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 10:03

3 views

3 March 2024

Small Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Location: News

Small Business Development to host Global Entrepreneurship Congress

Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams will host the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC+Africa) in Cape Town from 13 - 14 March.

The Department of Small Business Development has partnered with 22 on Sloane and other public and private sector players, who are committed to advancing entrepreneurial activity on the continent, to stage GEC+Africa 2024.

GEC+Africa is a gathering of entrepreneurs, thought leaders and practitioners, who have become part of the global movement that advances entrepreneurship as a vehicle for building economies and expanding access to a better life for all.

Over 1 500 delegates from more than 50 African nations are expected to participate during the congress. This will include start-ups; small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs); investors; policymakers and organisations that support entrepreneurship development.

GEC+Africa will seek to achieve some of the following objectives:

- Support the development of innovative start-ups and SMMEs in Africa.

- Create an enabling environment for African entrepreneurs to create jobs.

- Create market linkages for African start-ups and SMMEs.

- Support the development of a credible global investor pipeline that will invest in African start-ups and SMMEs.

- Establish a strong GEC-affiliated organisation in each African country to build and strengthen its entrepreneurship ecosystem.

According to the Department of Small Business Development, GEC+Africa will be a platform to showcase the significant progress the country has made in producing some of the most innovative and successful entrepreneurs on the continent.

“South Africa has one of the most mature start-up ecosystems in Africa, with stronger supporting institutions,” the department said in a statement.

“The Department of Small Business Development will continue to work with its partners to create an enabling environment for the growth and sustainability of small enterprises, and to strengthen the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 10:31

830 views

3 March 2024

Two suspects arrested for attempted police killing

Location: News

Two suspects arrested for attempted police killing

The swift response by police in Ntuzuma, KwaZulu-Natal, has led to the arrest of two suspects within a few minutes after they had attempted to kill an on-duty police officer in Newlands.

The police constable was on Thursday driving a State vehicle at the corner of Inanda Road and Marbleray Drive when a white Ford Figo approached from the side. Two men got out of the vehicle, carrying a firearm. The officer immediately reversed, as he attempted to take cover.

The two suspects got back into their vehicle, made a U-turn and drove counter traffic as they chased the police officer, firing shots at him. The constable returned fire and the suspects fled.

"The suspects' vehicle was circulated and vigilant Ntuzuma police officers spotted the vehicle at the corner of Mswenya and Nyala roads in Ntuzuma.

"The vehicle was intercepted and during a subsequent search. The suspects were found in possession of a firearm, whose serial number was erased. Police also found Gauteng province registration plates and several bank cards in the vehicle," the police said.

The suspects, aged 20 and 30, who are from Ntuzuma, were arrested and will appear in the Durban Magistrate's Court on Monday on charges of attempted murder of a police officer and illegal possession of a firearm. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 12:26

579 views