SA News

29 February 2024

Limpopo committed to good governance, says Mathabatha

Location: News

Limpopo committed to good governance, says Mathabatha

Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha says the province has, over the past decade, worked tirelessly to bring stability and sound administration.

“Through collective effort and unwavering commitment, we have seen remarkable improvements in audit outcomes and overall provincial performance,” Mathabatha said.

Delivering the State of the Province Address in Polokwane on Thursday, Mathabatha said the once prevalent disclaimer audit opinions are now a thing of the past in the provincial departments, public entities and municipalities.

"In 2013, Limpopo was at a critical juncture. Five departments were under national administration. Confidence in our provincial administration was waning. Our task was clear, yet daunting. It was to breathe life back into these departments and restore confidence in our governance.

“[Now] no department is under administration. As we reflect on the progress we have made, let us also look to the future with optimism and determination,” Mathabatha said.

Mathabatha said the story of Limpopo's renewal and development is far from over.

“It is a continuous journey, one that requires an active citizenry, and the collective effort of every community and leader. Together, we can build on the foundation we have laid, striving for even greater achievements and a brighter future for all who call Limpopo home.

“Our trajectory towards a Limpopo that we all yearn for is taking shape during an unfavorable, harsh global reality,” he said.

Mathabatha said under the circumstances, the province needs to build greater self-reliance and increase its share of value addition in finished products.

“It is important to continue our efforts to achieve manufacturing localisation, to deepen and expand domestic beneficiation of our minerals and primary agricultural products, industrialise and drive large-scale employment,” he said.

Mathabatha said since 2022, the province has become the fifth largest province in South Africa.

“Although we have moved from the fourth spot, we have become the largest contributor to Gauteng’s population.

“Our economic and social development programmes should help us retain our youth, while protecting their freedom of movement. Democracy has brought about many shifts. More people stay where they want to,” he said.

Food security

Mathabatha said the provincial government remains determined to support its people in food production.

“Limpopo has established a firm role in food security in our country.”

Mathabatha said 29% of households in the province now grow food in their yards.

“This is a testament to the fact that we have an active citizenry in food production. We remain determined to support our people in food production,” Mathabatha said.

He emphasised the need to build on the progress made, harnessing the potential of the youth, investing in infrastructure, fostering industrialisation and promoting sustainable development.

“... We have made progress in addressing the legacy of colonialism and apartheid. We also all acknowledge that there is still a lot of work to be done. I am sure we all agree that the road to success is a journey, not a sprint,” Mathabatha said.

Mathabatha said as the province, they reaffirm what President Cyril Ramaphosa said during the State of the Nation Address earlier this month, that the provincial government must strive for a non-racial and non-sexist democratic South Africa. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 13:07

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29 February 2024

Cabinet approves hosting of New Development Bank meeting

Location: News

Cabinet approves hosting of New Development Bank meeting

Cabinet has considered and approved the hosting of the annual meeting of the New Development Bank (NDB) to take place in South Africa in June 2024.

Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said it has been 10 years since Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) countries signed the Articles of the NDB at the 6th BRICS Summit in Fortaleza, marking the establishment of the “first multilateral development institution by emerging and developing countries”.

Briefing media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Ntshavheni said South Africa had so far contributed R25 billion towards the bank’s paid in capital.

“South Africa is looking forward to host the meeting on the NDB and commits to working hand-in-hand with the bank and its member countries to achieve sustainable development and create a better the African continent,” Ntshavheni said.

Social service professionals strategy approved

Cabinet has also approved the Strategy for the Employment of social service professionals (SSPs) strategy, as part of increasing the human resource capacity of government, including non-governmental organisations, and the private sector to proactively respond to social ills that are facing the country.

“The strategy is a collective commitment to building a social service sector that is responsive to the needs of our communities and overcome social ills such as crime, gender-based violence and femicide, teenage pregnancy, bullying, child-headed households, mental health and substance abuse.

“The strategy is also aimed at laying the foundation for a socially inclusive and resilient future and a caring society,” Ntshavheni said.

Comments sought on Green Paper on Comprehensive Social Security

Meanwhile, Cabinet has called on the public to submit comments on the revised Green Paper on Comprehensive Social Security for the country.

This follows Cabinet’s approval of the publication of the revised paper, which aims to introduce a mandatory social security pension system that provides retirement, disability, and death benefits to all workers.

Low income earners would have their contributions subsidised, in line with existing provisions.

“The paper further proposes the harmonisation of the tax treatment of older persons in the tax and social grant system to address the unequal treatment of older persons in the two regimes.

“In addition, the paper also seeks to propose institutional reforms to promote coherence in social security policy making for administrative efficiency, improved service delivery and ensure effective regulation, governance and oversight across all social security arrangements,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 12:07

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29 February 2024

KZN continues quest to remain most favoured investment destination

Location: News

KZN continues quest to remain most favoured investment destination

While unemployment figures may cause despair, KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, says the rate of investment into the province is a sign that tomorrow will be better than today.

“As KwaZulu-Natal, we faced an uphill battle in ensuring that investor confidence is unwavering, despite challenges with load shedding, the civil unrest, ageing utilities' infrastructure, some of which could not withstand the recent floods. Yet we remain determined to continue in our quest to ensure that investors know that KwaZulu-Natal is and remains the most favoured investment destination in Southern Africa,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier made the remarks when delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the Oval Cricket Stadium in Pietermaritzburg on Wednesday.

Dube-Ncube said during the South African Investment Conference (SAIC) held last year, where President Ramaphosa’s target was exceeded by some R306 billion, KwaZulu-Natal’s share included 55 companies in the province, which invested over R300 billion.

Dube-Ncube said some of the investments are located in the province's Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Richards Bay and Dube Trade Port, and around the province.

“Targeted business expansion and retention support activities amounted to over R23 billion, resulting in 37 201 jobs being created. Added to this are investments attracted by Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN) over the last two decades, amounting to over R60 billion and creating over 95 000 jobs,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said KwaZulu-Natal is committed to the establishment of new leather and textile Special Economic Zones in the Newcastle and Ladysmith corridor, which are estimated at R600 million.

She said the two new SEZs will add to the two provincial SEZs of Dube Trade Port and Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ), and will create 4 500 employment opportunities.

According to the Premier, 35 Black Industrialists have been supported by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and for grant funding, and they will create approximately 4 000 jobs. She said the target is to support 10 new Black Industrialists in the coming financial year.

“KwaZulu-Natal has 35 small scale fisheries cooperatives comprising 1 000 small scale fishers registered by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. Government has rolled out training to capacitate these fishers in the variety of Ocean Economy and Maritime technical skills,” the Premier said.

Dube-Ncube also highlighted some government-led projects to create jobs, including the Port of Durban's R1.34 billion investment programme aimed at upgrading port facilities to mainly increase port capacity. This created 1 328 jobs.

The Passenger Rail Agency South Africa (PRASA) has also spent over R900 million in KwaZulu-Natal through its capital programme on investment and infrastructure works.

“This includes projects on rolling stock upgrades, including the Bridge City Development with a new rail network, new access gates and CCTV cameras and stations, and the Dalbridge turnaround facility and general infrastructure station improvement. These were never there prior to this government.

“In 2023, the R2 billion Dr Pixley ka lsaka Seme Regional Hospital was officially opened with 500 beds and a full package of regional services provided. This hospital has changed lives, especially in the Phoenix, lnanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu (PINK) area, and created 5 312 jobs during construction,” Dube-Ncube highlighted.

The Premier acknowledged that government alone cannot address the enormous developmental challenges faced by the province.

“In order to accelerate development, we have partnered with the private sector to stimulate our economy. The public and private projects, worth over R129 billion, have created over 339 000 jobs,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 10:05

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29 February 2024

SA works on exiting FATF grey list

Location: News

SA works on exiting FATF grey list

National Treasury has noted that whilst South Africa is on track to address all the outstanding action items by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) with regards to the country’s grey listing, it remains a challenge to address all 17 of the remaining action items by February 2025.

“All relevant agencies and authorities will need to continue to demonstrate significant improvements, and also for such improvements are being sustained,” National Treasury said on Thursday.

The FATF is the international standard-setting body that oversees global compliance with anti-money laundering rules.

“The February 2024 FATF Plenary adopted a report by the Joint Group, confirming that five of the 22 action items are now addressed or largely addressed. These relate to the legal provisions criminalizing terrorist financing and underpinning South Africa’s targeted financial sanction regimes related to terrorism financing and proliferation financing, increasing the use of financial intelligence from the Financial Intelligence Centre to support money laundering investigations, and increasing the resources of AML/CFT [Anti-Money Laundering and the Combating of the Financing of Terrorism] supervisors,” National Treasury said.

The FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 Plenary meetings where a jointly agreed Action Plan was adopted listing 22 action items linked to the strategic deficiencies identified in the AML/CFT regime.

The FATF grey list refers to the FATF’s practice of publicly identifying countries with strategic AML/CFT deficiencies. The FATF maintains two such lists with one being jurisdictions under “increased monitoring” that are actively working with the FATF to address strategic deficiencies in their regimes” and secondly “high-risk jurisdictions subject to a call for action” that are not actively engaging with the FATF to address these deficiencies.

South Africa is required to address all 22 to exit the FATF grey list.

“The deadlines for addressing the action items fall between January 2024 to January 2025. Should South Africa be assessed to have largely addressed all 22 Action Items in February 2025, the FATF will schedule an onsite visit in April/May 2025, to confirm that assessment and make a recommendation to the June 2025 FATF plenary.

“In this cycle of reporting, the FATF also considered that two further action items that were previously not addressed, have now been partly addressed, confirming that 14 of the 17 outstanding action items have now been partly addressed.

“Three action items still have not been addressed as yet. The deadline for South Africa to address (or at least largely address) four of the outstanding action items in the Action Plan, is May 2024,” National Treasury said.

The FATF will consider South Africa’s progress on these action items at its plenary meeting in June 2024. A further eight action items are due in September 2024, and the final five items are due in January 2025.

The process in addressing effectiveness deficiencies is distinct from the process in addressing technical compliance deficiencies (related to the adequacy of the country’s AML/CFT laws and policy frameworks).

“The October 2023 FATF plenary formally re-rated 18 of South Africa’s 20 deficiencies, based on the progress made by the South African authorities in the two-year period following the 2021 mutual evaluation. Of these, 15 were upgraded to a point where they are no longer deficient, as 14 Recommendations are now fully or largely compliant, and one Recommendation was deemed to be inapplicable to South Africa.

“Following these re-ratings, South Africa is now deemed to be fully or largely compliant in 35 of the 40 FATF Recommendations, including in five of the six core FATF Recommendations. South Africa will apply for further re-ratings of technical compliance deficiencies, for the consideration of the October 2024 FATF Plenary,” National Treasury said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 09:38

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28 February 2024

Mpumalanga ready to host Presidential Imbizo

Location: News

Mpumalanga ready to host Presidential Imbizo

Preparations are well underway for the Presidential Imbizo to be held next Wednesday at the Sy Mthimunye Stadium in the Emalahleni Local Municipality, Nkangala District, Mpumalanga.

Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane is expected to welcome President Cyril Ramaphosa and Cabinet Ministers for the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo.

About 3 000 people across the province, including traditional leaders, civil society organisations and labour; women, youth, persons with disabilities and business representatives are expected to attend.

Mtshweni-Tsipane says the imbizo is a vital pillar of participatory democracy and will offer the citizens an opportunity to engage the President on developmental issues.

“Mpumalanga is more than ready to host the Presidential Imbizo. We are inspired by the President’s decision to afford our citizens an opportunity to engage him and to share solutions on service delivery challenges. This view is based on the previous Imbizo, which was held in Gert Sibande District,” the Premier said.

Mtshweni-Tsipane said the Imbizo seeks to entrench government’s ‘Leave no one behind’ perspective, as the country marks 30 years of democracy.

She encouraged citizens to use all available measures, such as posting of messages through social media, to share with the President.

Proceedings will be shared live on various platforms, including radio and tv stations as well as a Facebook livestream on the Mpumalanga Provincial Government page and Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) social media pages.

The Presidential Imbizo affords all social partners, government, traditional leaders, civil society organisations and communities an opportunity to collectively engage on how to best address the immediate challenges and to create conditions for long-lasting stability and development.

This public participation platform was informed by the country’s participatory democracy that enjoins citizens to make their voices heard, especially in their own development and service delivery. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 09:52

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28 February 2024

Spotlight on GBV action plan

Location: News

Spotlight on GBV action plan

Government and civil society continue to forge a collaborative approach to ensure the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF-NSP).

Launched in April 2020, the GBVF-NSP has six pillars, including accountability, coordination and leadership; prevention and rebuilding; justice, safety and protection; response, care support and healing; economic power, and research and information.

Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Deputy Minister, Nokuzola Tolashe, said the department has already made a submission requesting that GBVF be dealt with as a pandemic, with President Cyril Ramaphosa committing to the call during the State of the Nation Address.

“Since the launch of the National Femicide Prevalence Survey in March 2022, the department has reaffirmed its willingness to confront GBVF with unwavering determination through a multi-stakeholder and intergovernmental approach, with the ultimate goal of ending gender-based violence,” Tolashe said.

Tolashe said GBVF continues to plague the country, despite some progress being made to curb it.

“As a widespread occurrence, GBV continues to spread its ugly legs and it is deeply rooted in communal structures, such as homes, churches and workplaces."

She argued that GBV and femicide are structural issues fuelled by inequalities that cut across race, class, gender, sexuality and age.

“Women in third world countries are more likely to experience gender-based oppression perpetuated and motivated by patriarchal customs. When poverty and lack of jobs or economic empowerment opportunities are present, GBVF is likely to be exacerbated,” the Deputy Minister said.

As part of the two-year goal set by the GBVF Presidential Summit in 2022 to implement the National Strategic Plan, Tolashe said there is a proposal to establish local economies centred on women cooperatives, supported by local institutions.

“This initiative can bolster government endeavours to combat GBVF, empowering women and persons with disabilities to break free from economic dependence,” Tolashe said.

The World Bank said GBVF is a global pandemic that affects one in three women in their lifetime.

“GBV is not only devastating for the survivors of violence and their families, but also has significant social and economic costs to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” the World Bank stated.

KPMG, a global network of professional firms providing audit, tax and advisory services - said GBV costs South Africa between R28.4 billion and R42. 4 billion per year (or between 0.9% and 1.3% of GDP annually), resulting in individuals and families bearing the greatest proportion of costs. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 09:52

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28 February 2024

African nations adopt digital and social media guidelines

Location: News

African nations adopt digital and social media guidelines

The Association of African Election Authorities (AAEA) has launched a set of principles and guidelines aimed at getting the most out of digital and social media, while mitigating its potential harms.

The guidelines, launched on Tuesday, emphasise the dangers of social media abuse, and call for responsible use and accountability from both platform owners and users.

The launch event was attended by 16 African Election Management Bodies (EMB) from countries that will hold elections in 2024 and 2025.

The guidelines encourage African EMBs to develop a clear and comprehensive plan for responsible social media use during election campaigns. It emphasises the critical roles governments and regulatory bodies can play in safeguarding electoral processes across Africa.

In addition, the guidelines encourage African states and regulatory authorities to refrain from imposing measures that might disrupt access to the internet, and to digital and social media.

Furthermore, they call on social media operators to treat political parties and candidates equitably and ensure that their online messaging, including that of their supporters, does not undermine electoral integrity or contravene human rights.

Speaking at the launch in Johannesburg, the AAEA President, who is also the Chairperson of the Mozambique National Election Commission, Reverend Carlos Simao Matsinhe, said the guidelines are an invaluable resource for protecting elections integrity and credibility.

He said the fight against disinformation is critical because left unmitigated, it can have a deleterious impact on the credibility of elections. He urged EMBs to socialise the guidelines in their respective countries.

South Africa, through grant funding by the African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund, played an important role in developing the guidelines.

In his keynote address, South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, pledged the country's support for socialising the principles and guidelines.

“The reality is that the political environment during elections is tense and volatile, and we should use social media with responsibility to ensure that the content we share is credible and accurate. I urge political parties that participate in robust debate on social media to uphold ethical standards and refrain from going too far in being unjust, deceptive, or hateful,” said Mashatile.

The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of South Africa, Mosotho Moepya, urged all stakeholders to play their role in ensuring that the guidelines are widely socialised and implemented, not only to increase voter confidence and trust in electoral processes, but also to ensure the deepening of democratic values.

Echoing Moepya's sentiments, the representative of the African Union Commission (AUC), Ambassador William Awinador-Kanyirige, said the adoption of the guidelines will play a huge role in the transformation and handling of elections in Africa.

“The existence of these principles and guidelines will go a long way in inspiring other countries to follow the same steps, thus promoting peaceful elections,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 10:23

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28 February 2024

Transnet expands port to meet industry demands

Location: News

Transnet expands port to meet industry demands

In its ongoing drive for port expansion and operational performance improvement, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is repositioning its Western Region ports of Cape Town, Mossel Bay and Saldanha for the provision of world-class port infrastructure to support the regions’ booming shipping demand.

Projects in the pipeline include Phase2B of the Cape Town Container Terminal expansion at the Port of Cape Town.

“As part of the project, TNPA is currently finalising a detailed design of the rail infrastructure upgrade - a key deliverable that will enable the construction phase. The design work will be completed by December 2024. The project scope also includes container stack upgrade as well as a truck staging area and automation.

“The expansion will see a capacity increase from 1 million TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) to 1.4 million TEU, with an investment value of approximately R1.775 billion. Project commencement is planned for September 2025,” Transnet said on Monday.

TNPA is also reviewing and finalising precinct plans for the Culemborg Intermodal Logistics Precinct Development in the Port of Cape Town, and that will be followed by a request for proposals during the 2024/25 financial year.

“This project will culminate in the development of land parcels near the port to create additional back of port capacity. Key projects at the Port of Saldanha include the extension of the multi-purpose terminal and the development of berth 205, which will cater for rig repairs. The new berth will also provide additional capacity for break bulk operations,” Transnet said.

Meanwhile, strategic initiatives in the Port of Mossel Bay include the construction of the cruise reception facility to enable international cruise vessels to call to the port. The slipway rehabilitation project planned for 2024/25 financial year will increase the port’s slipway and cradle capacity from 200 to 500 tons.

“The execution of these projects is not only a demonstration of our commitment to investing in the creation of addition port capacity, but also critical for the Ports Authority to respond to the need to improve operational performance of the South African ports,” acting TNPA Managing Executive for the Western Region ports, Captain Vernal Jones said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 11:02

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28 February 2024

Work to complete Mandlakazi Regional Bulk Water Scheme continues

Location: News

Work to complete Mandlakazi Regional Bulk Water Scheme continues

The Ministry of Water and Sanitation says it is accelerating the completion of the Mandlakazi Regional Bulk Water Scheme to ensure sustainable water provision in Zululand.

The water supply scheme aims to bring relief to the community of Mandlakazi, which is between Kwa-Nongoma and Mkhuze towns in Zululand District Municipality, as well as Hlabisa under uMkhanyakude District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal.

Giving an update on the progress made to move the project toward completion, the department said on 14 December 2023, Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu convened a meeting between the department, uMngeni-uThukela Water, Zululand, and uMkhanyakude District Municipalities.

The meeting was held to check on the status quo of the project progress.

At the meeting, presentations were made by both district municipalities, with visibly identifiable gaps and overall slow project progress.

This was followed by the Minister’s announcement that the scheme would be taken over by the department and transferred into a Ministerial Scheme.

“The decision to take over the project was as a result of the delayed nature of the project and its huge socio-economic impact, as it is cuts across two districts,” departmental spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa explained.

During a meeting held on 3 January 2024, Mchunu also announced the appointment of uMngeni-uThukela Water as the implementing agent, responsible for certain aspects of the project.

In addition, the Zululand District Municipality has been appointed to implement Phases 5 and 6 of the project, which will benefit 279 297 people.

“Phase 5 includes the construction of the main pipeline that will abstract water from Jozini Dam to Mandlakazi Water Treatment Works, and several other pipeline projects within the entire Mandlakazi project footprint. Phase 6 concerns the construction of a network water reticulation pipelines to provide water to the households of the entire Esiphambanweni community.”

While waiting for the Mandlakazi Scheme to be completed, Mavasa said the department has provided funding for emergency storage reservoirs and connection to supply water to the Hlabisa area.

Mavasa said, as of 20 February 2024, the project have been tested and commissioned, and reservoir 12 Mthwadlana and reservoir 22 Miyaneni, will now be able to receive water.

Reservoir 12 Mthwadlana feeds all reservoirs to the east of Hlabisa in the villages including Matshamhlophe, Majukujukwini, Ophaphasi, Nhlwathi, Nqamu, Ngodini, Mcwabakazi, Makhowe, and others.

Reservoir 22 Miyaneni is a command reservoir that feeds all reservoirs to the west of Hlabisa, including Mpembeni, Hlabisa Town, Mhlambanyathi, Mgangatho, Mansiya, among others.

“The technical teams are currently doing pressure testing and checking the functionality of some of the pipelines, since the reservoirs are now at full capacity,” Mavasa said.

Mavasa reiterated the Ministry, and the department continue to provide support and oversight to the project, to ensure that it meets its deadlines as outlined, and that communities identified receive sustainable potable water upon its completion. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 11:15

384 views

28 February 2024

Murder of Soweto doctor condemned

Location: News

Murder of Soweto doctor condemned

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has strongly condemned the recent tragic murder of a medical doctor in Dobsonville, Soweto.

Well-known Dr Michael Isabelle was tragically shot during an armed robbery at his medical facility and succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital on Saturday.

“It is deeply troubling that he lost his life simply for refusing to surrender his laptop and phones to the suspects,” the committee said.

The committee has described the incident as utterly unacceptable and regrettable.

“This heartbreaking incident serves as a sad reminder of the pervasive violence that plagues our communities, with innocent individuals bearing the brunt of heinous crimes.

“Despite concerted efforts by government and civil society to combat crime in Gauteng and across the nation, criminals continue to wreak havoc and instill fear among South Africans.”

The committee has urgently called upon law enforcement agencies to swiftly apprehend those responsible for this senseless act of violence and ensure that they are brought to justice.

“It is imperative that we send a resounding message that senseless crimes of this nature have no place in our society and that perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.”

The committee also extended its heartfelt condolences to Isabelle’s family.

“We stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time and recognise doctors' invaluable role in saving lives and providing essential medical care to those in need.

“We urge the entire nation to unite in condemning violence and reaffirming our commitment to building safer communities for all.”

According to TimesLive Premium, Isabelle was also attacked and shot in the stomach soon after he qualified in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, 20 years ago.

A family spokesperson who spoke to the publication said Isabelle was a jazz lover, who was generous and principled with an uncompromising work ethic. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 11:31

526 views

28 February 2024

North West ex-mineworkers receive over R76m of their unclaimed benefits

Location: News

North West ex-mineworkers receive over R76m of their unclaimed benefits

The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, has praised the North West provincial government for its dedication to tracing and tracking ex-mineworkers who left employment without claiming their benefits.

The North West has so far traced 20 798 ex-mineworkers, with 2 669 claims processed and paid to the tune of R76.9 million between 2022 and 2023.

This comes after Dhlomo launched the compensation project with the North West Premier and MEC for Health in August 2022.

“The intervention aims to provide ex-mineworkers and their beneficiaries with access to compensation benefits for occupational lung diseases and other social protection funds which were left unclaimed,” the department explained.

Speaking at Westvaal Hospital in Orkney on Monday, Dhlomo congratulated the North West provincial government, the provincial health department and all stakeholders including the Mining Council and the interim ex-mineworkers leadership structure for the job well done.

“The province and the department have done extremely well if you consider that between 2017 and 2021, the total value of the payouts ranged from between 10% and 11% but in one year of 2023 the province was able to pay R76.9 million.

“It’s a massive success though there are still many ex-mineworkers to be traced and compensated,” said the Deputy Minister.

According to the North West Health MEC Madoda Sambatha, the province is working around the clock to find the 168 000 former mineworkers and their beneficiaries.

“We already have community health workers who are doing good work of ‘loss to follow-up’ because they track and trace people who miss their TB treatment. When we integrate this programme, we will be able to utilise this resource to track and trace ex-mine workers,” Sambatha explained.

In addition, the National Department of Health has committed to ensuring that all centres in the four districts located in Westvaal, Old Vryburg, Mahikeng Provincial and Job Shimankana Tabane hospitals remain operational and accessible.

Sambatha concluded the deliberations by assuring stakeholders that the department is committed to concluding outreach in the remaining districts between March and May 2024, as this will raise awareness especially those in deep rural areas who might not be aware of the project.

The department said all key stakeholders in the projects were essential and would be consulted throughout the implementation phases to ensure its success. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 13:56

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28 February 2024

Suspects in AKA murder case to appear in court

Location: News

Suspects in AKA murder case to appear in court

The six suspects arrested in the murder case of musician Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, known as AKA, and his friend Tebello “Tibz” Motsoane are due to appear in court on Thursday.

The suspects were arrested on Tuesday evening. They face charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, among others.

The announcement was made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, at the SA Police Service provincial headquarters in Durban.

The briefing was also attended by the police top brass, including Police Minister Bheki Cele and National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola.

Mkhwanazi said Forbes was the main target of the shooting, and not Motsoane, who was "at the wrong place at the wrong time".

“The six suspects have played different roles during the operation. We have the coordinator, who is the master of everything. We have two shooters that we all saw on social media. We have two spotters. One of the spotters was inside the restaurant observing Mr Forbes and his friends, as well as the organiser of firearms and vehicles used as getaways,” Mkhwanazi said.

Mkhwanazi said the spotter initially followed Forbes from the airport to the hotel and to the restaurant where he was fatally shot.

Forbes was gunned down in Durban’s Florida Road on 10 February 2023 as he was leaving the Wish restaurant. Motsoane was also murdered.

According to Mkhwanazi, some of the cars used at the time of the murder were rented.

On 22 April 2023, the first suspect was arrested in Belhar, Cape Town. He was the alleged organiser who hired vehicles and guns. He was also in police custody for several unrelated murders.

On 24 October 2023, the second suspect, who was an alleged spotter, was arrested. He was linked to another unrelated murder in the Berea area.

Mkhwanazi said the suspects were linked to the AKA murder through four vehicles that were used in the planning, spotting and getaway, including a Mercedes Benz, BMW, Hyundai i10 and VW Polo.

Two of the vehicles had been rented and have since been returned to their owner, who has furnished the police with a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 13:13

98 views

28 February 2024

R1 billion investment to boost tugboat availability

Location: News

R1 billion investment to boost tugboat availability

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is injecting a R1 billion investment in its marine fleet renewal programme through the acquisition of seven tugboats aimed at enhancing marine operations at its commercial seaports.

“The seven tugboats will replace marine craft that has reached its operational lifespan at the ports of Durban [in KwaZulu-Natal] and East London [in the Eastern Cape]. TNPA has awarded two contracts to a shipbuilding company, Damen Shipyards Cape Town, to deliver the seven tugboats from April to August 2024,” Transnet said on Tuesday.

From this procured tug fleet, the Port of Durban has been allocated five tugboats and two will go to the Port of East London.

“This investment demonstrates TNPA’s ongoing commitment in providing reliable marine craft at our South African ports, which will enable us to effectively service the marine industry and respond to global shipping demands,” TNPA Chief Harbour Master, Captain Rufus Lekala said.

The procured tugboats boast the latest hull design and propulsion, as well as a 60-ton bollard pull, which is a much-needed improvement from the bollard pull of the existing tugboats that will be replaced that ranges between 32 and 40-ton bollard pull.

“The 60-ton pollard pull meets international standards and makes the craft highly manoeuvrable while guiding larger and newer vessels safely in and out of the ports.

“TNPA’s marine fleet programme demonstrates a reimagined focus in ensuring that the Ports Authority delivers on its mandate of providing a competitive port system in its role as an enabler of economic growth,” Transnet said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 11:10

130 views

28 February 2024

SARS takes legal action against Sasfin Bank

Location: News

SARS takes legal action against Sasfin Bank

The Commissioner for the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Edward Kieswetter, has confirmed that the revenue service has instituted legal proceedings against Sasfin Bank.

SARS has conducted a thorough investigation into various South African taxpayers who had not made true and accurate tax disclosures to it.

“The investigation revealed that the taxpayers had colluded to expatriate funds offshore in a manner that obscured tracing the expatriated payments and jeopardises the recovery of tax in South Africa.

“The Commissioner’s position is that it is inappropriate to comment on the question of liability and compensation for the fiscus’ loss, as these are legal issues that are now before the South African judicial system. Given this development, SARS will not be making any further comment,” SARS said on Tuesday.

The Commissioner affirmed his commitment to pursue the enforcement and recovery of taxes without fear, favour or prejudice in the interest of upholding the fiscal integrity of the South African tax system.

Meanwhile in an announcement on Tuesday, shareholders of Sasfin Holdings Limited were advised that Sasfin Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sasfin Holdings, was served a civil summons for a total amount of R4,872,327,649.27 plus interest and costs in the form of a damages claim, instituted by SARS.

“This summons, which was received on 9 January 2024, arises from SARS’ purported inability to collect income tax, value added tax and penalties allegedly owed by former foreign exchange clients of the bank.

“Former foreign exchange clients of the Bank operated as a syndicate that ran an unlawful scheme to facilitate the expatriation of money out of South Africa and colluded with former employees of the bank who operated outside the scope of their employment.”

Sasfin Holdings Limited also added that the bank took decisive action when it became aware of this unlawful scheme, including instituting an expanded investigation led by an independent forensic consultancy.

This resulted in the termination of relationships with the implicated clients and employees and the opening of criminal cases against them.

“Subsequent to receiving the summons, Sasfin Bank engaged transparently with the relevant regulators on the matter and obtained a legal opinion from ENS, authored by Professor Dale Hutchinson, Professor Michael Katz and Aslam Moosajee and endorsed by Adv. Wim Trengove S.C.”

“The legal opinion is unequivocal that the claim falls outside of the recognised parameters of applicable law and has a very remote likelihood of success. On the basis of this legal opinion, Sasfin Holdings concluded that the claim will not result in the recognition of any liability.”

In the SENS announcement, the board of directors of Sasfin Holdings “remains of the view that SARS’ claim has no merit and has little chance of success.”

“The Bank will therefore defend the claim, and given that this involves a defended trial action, the matter is only likely to come to trial in several years’ time,” said Sasfin Holdings. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 10:23

90 views

27 February 2024

Mashatile urges parties to hold back on distasteful social media debates ahead of elections

Location: News

Mashatile urges parties to hold back on distasteful social media debates ahead of elections

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has urged political parties that hold robust debates on social media to uphold ethical standards and refrain from unjust, deceptive or hateful speech, as many African countries head to the polls this year.

“We can run campaigns on social media without being malicious or degrading of both individuals and organisations,” he said on Tuesday.

The Deputy President was delivering a keynote address at the launch of the 'Principles and guidelines for the use of digital and social media in African elections' in Johannesburg.

The new guidelines seek to create awareness among election management bodies (EMBs) on the benefits and threats of digital and social media to the electoral process and integrity.

They are a comprehensive framework for the continental EMBs adopted in Benin during the 11th General Assembly meeting of the Association of African Electoral Authorities (AAEA) last year.

The principles cover various areas - from the promotion of freedom of speech, access to information, protecting the rights to privacy and the role of the State, political parties, candidates and media.

For instance, one of the guidelines stipulates that political parties and candidates should ensure that campaigns conducted on digital and social media are transparent and attributed, including the use of paid-for-content and influencers.

The Deputy President has described these principles and guidelines as groundbreaking for Africa, spearheaded by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) on behalf of AAEA, as groundbreaking for Africa.

The launch coincides with heightened election activity around the continent, with over 20 African Union Member States, including South Africa, preparing for elections.

This, Mashatile said, provides an opportunity for fine-tuning the regulatory and operational protocols for the use of social media during these elections.

“We will, therefore, continue to uphold the right to free and fair elections in this election and thereafter, as we have done since 1994,” he vowed.

In the fast-paced digital world of today, he said it was important to recognise the important role that social media plays in shaping people's opinions and establishing the narratives propelled during elections.

“As we witness the increasing use of these platforms in political campaigns, it is imperative that we establish clear principles and guidelines to ensure a fair, transparent, and inclusive electoral process,” the Deputy President said.

Youth

He is of the view that social media platforms must be used constructively to inform and disseminate positive messages regarding elections, with a particular focus on the youth of Africa.

The youth, Mashatile said, are gaining significant grip on platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

“We should, therefore, use these principles and guidelines to emphasise the importance of promoting online integrity, safeguarding against misinformation and disinformation, protecting privacy and data security, and fostering a level playing field for all candidates and political parties.”

Misinformation

Through adherence to these principles, Mashatile believes that countries will be able to safeguard the values of democracy through free and fair elections, and allow voters to make choices.

“We have a significant obligation to educate our population about the risks associated with disseminating misinformation, particularly concerning elections, since false claims can erode trust in the electoral process and provoke a wave of anti-voters and instability in our countries,” he said.

The Deputy President has described the misinformation and disinformation are a threat to democracy.

“They undermine confidence in our elections, and have the potential to suppress voter turnout.”

The Deputy President also took the time to express his gratitude to the agencies and digital companies for walking this journey with the African EMBs, offering them technical expertise, and building their capacities.

IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya told the delegates that the internet is here to stay and that it should be used for the common good.

“We’re working with those who own social media, authorities and EMBs, and we’re trying to find a way in which we can use social media to help us in the work that we do; and at the same time, to limit the damage it can do when it is abused.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 13:12

333 views

27 February 2024

President consults political parties on nomination for Chief Justice position

Location: News

President consults political parties on nomination for Chief Justice position

President Cyril Ramaphosa has embarked on a process of consultation with the leaders of political parties represented in Parliament and the Judicial Service Commission to convey his nomination of Judge Mandisa Muriel Lindelwa Maya as Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa.

Judge Maya currently serves as Deputy Chief Justice and has held the positions of Deputy President and President of the Supreme Court of Appeal.

“The position of Chief Justice will become vacant on 31 August 2024 when the term of office of Justice Raymond Zondo comes to an end. The Chief Justice was appointed as a Justice of the Constitutional Court for a 12-year term with effect from 1 September 2012. The Chief Justice will therefore complete his term as a Justice of the Constitutional Court with effect from 31 August 2024.

“President Ramaphosa has invited the leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly to make submissions on the suitability or otherwise of Deputy Chief Justice Maya to hold the office of Chief Justice,” the Presidency said on Tuesday.

The President has drawn the attention of leaders of political parties to Judge Maya’s illustrious judicial career, in which she was first appointed as a Judge of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court in 2000.

She attained B.Proc (University of Transkei); LLB (University of Natal); and LLM (Duke University, North Carolina, United States of America) degrees as well as three LLD degrees (Honoraris) from the Universities of Fort Hare, Walter Sisulu and Nelson Mandela respectively.

The President has embarked on the process for consultation in terms of Section 174(3) of the Constitution.

He has also, in terms of Section 174(3) of the Constitution, consulted the Judicial Service Commission, chaired by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, on the process of the President’s nomination of Justice Dumisani Hamilton Zondi as Deputy President of the Supreme Court of Appeal.

Justice Zondi currently serves as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Appeal.

The term of office of the Current Deputy President of the Supreme Court of Appeal, Justice Xola Petse, will come to an end on 10 July 2024 when he attains the age of 70 and will be automatically discharged from office.

Justice Zondi holds a B.Juris from the University of Fort Hare, an LLB from the University of Natal, as well as an LLM from Georgetown University in the United States of America.

Following a successful career in practice, Justice Zondi was appointed to the Western Cape Bench in 2007. In 2011, he became a Judge of the Competition Appeal Court. Justice Zondi was elevated to the Supreme Court of Appeal in June 2014. In 2022, he was appointed as a Chairperson of the Electoral Court.

President Ramaphosa has invited the Judicial Service Commission to make submissions on Justice Zondi’s suitability for the position for which he has been nominated. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 13:23

482 views

27 February 2024

EWSETA introduces specialised training for renewable energy, water management

Location: News

EWSETA introduces specialised training for renewable energy, water management

The Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA) has developed and implemented specialised renewable energy and water resource management training programmes, in a bid to align with industry needs and technological advancements.

This was revealed during a media engagement with the organisation in Rosebank, Johannesburg on Tuesday.

EWSETA Chief Executive Officer, Mpho Mookapele, engaged the media on the back of growing research that macroeconomic trends and technological advancements continue to disrupt labour markets worldwide.

Mookapele highlighted some of the courses implemented by the organisation and others currently in the pipeline, including water works management, solar panel installation, wind turbine maintenance and other green energy solutions, among others.

She said as the energy sector is rapidly evolving the EWSETA is currently developing qualifications that will respond to the gaps in the curriculum.

The skills programmes that will be introduced include wind turbine operation, biogas installation, microgrid and battery energy storage operation, solar PV manufacture, design, and installation.

“When the sector needs certain skills, we are committed to working together with industry to build these capabilities. Ultimately, we exist to ensure industries are successful.

“As such, we aim to move with agility to ensure that these programmes and qualifications are concluded and submitted for registration with Quality Council for Trades and Occupation (QCTO) and South African Qualification South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA),” Mookapele said.

She said due to the boom in the photovoltaic sector and more people going solar, the SETA is also currently working with industry to ensure that minimum skills requirements are mandated for the PV Green Card training - a quality assurance standard for solar PV installers.

These minimum requirements will hopefully mitigate against substandard installations.

Mookapela said the EWSETA is looking for partners to enable retro-fitting technical workshops for TVET colleges to ensure that they are responding to the tech-developments in the industry.

Developing water-related qualifications

The EWSETA has also partnered with water boards, including municipalities and private industries, to develop water-related qualifications that aim to address the challenges around clean drinking water and wastewater treatment plants.

“In response to the evolving water landscape, a Water Works Management NQF 6 qualification has been registered. EWSETA is in the process of developing a Water Resource Management qualification at NQF level 8 and a skills programme for a Water Conservation Practitioner,” she said.

Advances in water treatment processes will necessitate the development of qualifications that will respond to the future treatment landscape, and these include biological water treatment and smart water grids, amongst others.

“As the world transitions to net zero, the traditional career landscape is changing, and it is up to all of us to future-proof our workforce. The Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority is taking strides to harness the opportunities that these exciting changes present,” Mookapele said.

Skills development initiatives

Meanwhile, Mookapele underscored the importance for businesses to share their skills plans with the EWSETA to enable the organisation to capacitate learners accordingly.

Investing in skills development secures the long-term sustainability of industries and contributes to economic resilience.

“Together with government and private entities we are collaborating to fast-track skills development initiatives that seek to upskill and reskill employees to meet the workforce demands of the changing energy and water sectors,” Mookapele said.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) last year revealed that 4.7 million more people were employed in clean energy globally in 2022 than in 2019.

Mookapele noted that concerns around the “green skills gap” have been echoed by a recent report from LinkedIn, which shows that only 1 in 8 employees globally possess one or more green skills.

“We don’t want to leave South Africa’s young people and workforce behind; it is important for businesses to share their skills plans with us, so that we can capacitate learners accordingly,” she said.

EWSETA’s mandate is to participate, build and strategically plan and manage skills development, and training needs in the energy and water sectors, as directed by the National Skills Development Plan 2030. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 14:38

103 views

27 February 2024

KwaZulu-Natal records high number of rhino poaching cases

Location: News

KwaZulu-Natal records high number of rhino poaching cases

While efforts to prevent rhino poaching have resulted in positive outcomes in national parks across the country, South Africa has seen a shift in rhino poaching with the majority of cases in the past year being recorded in KwaZulu-Natal.

“The pressure again has been felt in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province with Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park facing the brunt of poaching cases losing 307 of the total national poaching loss. This is the highest poaching loss within this province,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy said on Tuesday.

Last year, 499 rhinos were poached across South Africa, 406 were killed on state properties and 93 on privately owned parks, reserves and/or farms. This was an increase of 51 in comparison to 448 rhinos poached in 2022.

Addressing a media briefing on the 2023 national rhino poaching statistics in St Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal, the Minister said the province recorded 49 arrests and 13 firearms were seized by multi-disciplinary teams that continue to work tirelessly in an attempt to slow the pressure on rhino poaching.

The Kruger National Park (KNP) recorded a 37% decrease from 2022 with a total of 78 rhino poached in 2023. No rhinos were poached in any other National Parks.

“As part of the government’s poverty relief program there are a number of fence monitors employed from neighboring communities that patrol the western boundary fence of the KNP and report fence breakages, illegal tracks and people entering the KNP as well as animals escaping from the KNP,” Creecy said.

Various interventions can be attributed to the decrease of rhino poached at KNP in 2023:

Strong collaboration between external stakeholders permanently based in KNP and attending to various Wildlife Crime cases such as the Skukuza Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, Skukuza SAPS and SAPS forensic teams.
An extensive and ongoing dehorning programme, which focuses on the dehorning of all rhino in core areas.
The continued implementation of the KNP Ranger Services Integrity Management Plan, which is a holistic approach that assesses the drivers and dynamics of corruption, and then addresses these with a comprehensive set of actions that focuses on building individual integrity and organisational resilience to corruption.
Improved access control through the installation of Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and gate cameras.
Radar detection systems that remotely track any illegal entry by poachers on foot into the KNP.

The Minister commended the work performed by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation – the Hawks - in several regional and transnational engagements to enhance the government’s integrated approach to combat wildlife trafficking.

“Responsible partnerships between the public and private sectors, and the financial and transporting sectors remains critical in combating international wildlife trafficking.

“The approach is not exclusive to South Africa but is followed within the region and transnationally working with the transit and end user countries in South-East Asia, especially with the People’s Republic of China, Singapore, Qatar, Malaysia and Vietnam,” she said.

In relation to rhino prosecutions, verdicts were handed down in 36 cases of which 35 resulted in guilty verdicts and one in a not guilty verdict.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Environmental Working Group (EWG) meets on a biannual basis to share best practice in the investigation and prosecution of environmental crime and to address challenges experienced.

These meetings also foster closer collaboration between the provincial conservation authorities dealing with wildlife trafficking cases and to help identify repeat offenders moving around the country to further the implementation of the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking (NISCWT) strategy.

“Further to this, real time information pertaining to arrest is shared, which enhance collaboration between prosecutors and the law enforcement agencies significantly. A national environmental cases audit has been conducted to establish the number of cases being dealt with by the National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa (NPA).

“A consolidated list of investigating instructions pertaining to rhino and abalone cases has been developed to ensure that comprehensive investigations are requested,” the Minister said.

In the 2023/24 financial year, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) embarked on a consultative process to revise both the Black and White Rhinoceros Biodiversity Management Plans (BMP) in line with the provision of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act.

“The revision of the BMP aims to address the needs of both black and white rhino, provide a strategic approach and detailed action plan to conserving rhino in South Africa and for engaging with range States to the north.

It consolidates previous work at policy and planning level on rhino management into a single integrated tool in order to usher in a whole of society approach in the interest of both the rhinos and the people of South Africa. The revised draft BMP will be published in a Government Gazette for public participation in the near future,” Creecy said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 10:53

385 views

27 February 2024

Law must crack down on police killers – Cele

Location: News

Law must crack down on police killers - Cele

Police Minister Bheki Cele has called for stricter laws to crack down even harder on criminals who murder police officers.

The Minister was speaking during a panel discussion at the National Conference on the Implementation of the Integrated Criminal Justice System (ICJS) programme and the review of the Criminal Procedure Act.

Cele highlighted that between October and December 2023, at least 22 police officers were killed.

“Our call… is that human rights must be respected. Police are humans and they have rights. I would really like to see [the law] protecting members of the South African Police Service.

“There has been a call… to say that the law must protect the law enforcers adequately. Sometimes, there is a feeling that criminals are more protected than the law enforcers. As this law, the Criminal Procedure Act, is developed, we wish that it takes that on board that [SAPS] members must find some cushion in the law,” he said.

He assured that any change in law would not give SAPS members leeway to abuse their power.

“The lives of SAPS members cannot be above the citizens of South Africa. But it must also be understood that they stand as a buffer between criminality and the whole of society. If they are pushed to the brink and they fall, these criminals will walk over the community thereafter,” he said.

Cele also called for increased protection of whistle-blowers and witnesses, as they remain crucial for the criminal justice system to work.

“We would love to see the law really getting tight on protecting witnesses. Sometimes, witnesses feel that we don’t take care of them. There are witnesses that lose everything for us to win cases, so it would be important that the law… makes sure that those who are prepared [to take the stand are protected].

“If witnesses fall off, then cases fall off. It’s important that all processes are kept in place so that when the day [a case is in court] and it’s time for the magistrate to pronounce [a verdict], we are all happy,” he said.

Turning to the issuance of bail for suspected criminals, Cele said more stringent conditions for the approval of bail must be put into place.

“[Criminals] go and get bail and the community takes matters into their own hands so the bail issue is one issue that we have to look at,” he said.

He encouraged all stakeholders to work together for the betterment of the criminal justice system and to make citizens safer.

“Let’s work together across the board to reduce crime, while police are at the hard end of leading it with all law enforcement. But all other departments and all of us, we can do better to reduce crime and make South Africans feel better,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 12:29

15 views

27 February 2024

Current legal framework must transform to respond to society’s current needs – DP Mashatile

Location: News

Current legal framework must transform to respond to society's current needs - DP Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says although much has been done to address challenges in the criminal justice system, the current legal framework requires transformation and amendments that align with society in its current form.

He was delivering the keynote address at the official opening of the National Conference on the implementation of the Integrated Criminal Justice System (ICJS) programme and the review of the Criminal Procedure Act.

The conference is expected to be held over the next three days.

“For many years, the integrated criminal justice system and the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 have had a profound impact on how we handle law enforcement, prosecution, and adjudication in South Africa.

“However, we must examine the current legal framework and identify areas that require transformation or amendment. Our laws must be responsive to the changing needs of society and aligned with international standards,” he said.

Challenges

Mashatile said the criminal justice system “has been put to the test due to widespread corruption, criminality, gender-based violence and femicide” and added that despite government’s concerted efforts, crime remains persistent.

“The prosecution and judicial systems are overburdened; the correctional service is overcrowded, and the police system continues to be besieged as the state fights to prosecute and punish criminal behaviour, frequently compromising on ‘zero-tolerance’ pledges to ‘punish at all costs’.

“Looking at these challenges, it is easy to grow despondent, but we must never be discouraged. Instead, we must double our efforts to reach our desired goal,” he said.

Outlining government’s actions to combat crime and corruption, Mashatile told the conference that tackling lawlessness is government’s top priority.

“We are tackling significant commercial and serious organised crime through the developed Anti-Corruption Task Team (ACTT) and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Operational Committee, currently known as the National Priority Crimes Operational Committee (NPCOC) under the South African Police Service Act.

“Through the Integrated Task Force, we are coordinating the implementation of 205 recommendations for criminal investigations made by the Zondo State Capture Commission. As it stands, three convictions secured and 11 cases are currently before court relating to 36 recommendations. The remaining recommendations are still under investigation,” he said.

Turning to gender-based violence and femicide, Mashatile said the courts are now coming down harder on perpetrators of the scourge.

He said laws that have been passed and Bills at the desk of the National Assembly are enabling the courts to be more efficient and effective in dealing with GBVF.

“In the 2022-2023 fiscal year, the courts have shown a 27.9% increase in life imprisonment sentences for GBVF at Thuthuzela Care Centres, indicating the courts’ robust approach to combating GBVF. Most significantly, the National Assembly approved the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill, which is currently under the National Council of Provinces review.

“The government is responding swiftly to the GBVF epidemic by putting an emphasis on robust institutions and solid evidence. In late 2020, the Department of Justice introduced three amendment bills including the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act 12 of 2021, the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 13 of 2021, and the Domestic Violence Amendment Act 14 of 2021.

“The latter Act established an electronic repository for domestic violence protection orders, which became operational on April 14, 2023,” he said.

Loss of trust

The Deputy President acknowledged that despite government embarking on crime intervention strategies and other initiatives, “it is concerning the most recent Statistics South Africa Victims of Crime Survey indicates that confidence in our criminal justice system is declining”.

As a result of this, he revealed that the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster is embarking on key interventions to address the challenge of crime.

These include, amongst others:

Maintaining targeted efforts to address gender-based violence and femicide and its impact on individuals and communities.
Establishing an independent entity called the Investigating Directorate against Corruption within the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
Enhancing the effectiveness of the Whistle-Blowers Act.
Finalising revisions to the Criminal Procedure Act to bolster efforts to combat both crime and corruption.

“As we look towards the future, let us commit to further enhancing and protecting this crucial institution to ensure a just and fair society for all South Africans.

“I am optimistic about the potential outcomes that will emerge from the conference’s discussions, which will ultimately shape the ongoing evolution of the criminal justice system,” Mashatile concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 11:07

76 views

27 February 2024

Term of office for SARS Commissioner extended

Location: News

Term of office for SARS Commissioner extended

President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended the term of office for the Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Edward Kieswetter, for two years.

“The decision follows the agreement between the President and Kieswetter to extend the tenure of the Commissioner to enable an orderly leadership transition in the organisation,” the Presidency said on Tuesday.

READ | President Ramaphosa agrees to extend Commissioner Kieswetter’s tenure at SARS

In March 2019, President Ramaphosa appointed Kieswetter in terms of Section 6 of the South African Revenue Service Act, for a five-year term that started on 1 May 2019.

Kieswetter will continue leading the execution of the current strategic direction of the revenue service while ensuring a smooth leadership transition. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 09:43

283 views

26 February 2024

Investigation into KZN bus crash ferrying ANC supporters

Location: News

Investigation into KZN bus crash ferrying ANC supporters

An investigation has been launched into a bus crash which claimed the lives of nine people who were returning home to Mpumalanga after the African National Congress (ANC) election manifesto launch in Durban.

According to media reports, the bus accident happened at around 5am in Paulpietersburg under the eDumbe Local Municipality in Zululand on Sunday.

“The law enforcement team on the scene has so far confirmed nine fatalities. However, they have not concluded the full recovery of the bus at the accident scene.

“Scores of other occupants sustained injuries, with four being more critical [and] they have all been taken to a local hospital. The cause of the accident is being investigated, and experts will be deployed to assist with the forensic investigation,” KwaZulu-Natal Transport MEC, Sipho Hlomuka said.

The MEC said a team was deployed on the scene to work with all law enforcement agencies.

“The investigation has already started, and we are in touch with the bus owner. Our investigation is looking at the condition of the road, condition of the bus, weather during the times of the accident, and the condition of the driver,” Hlomuka said.

He expressed his deepest condolences to the ANC and all affected families and wished those who sustained injuries a speedy recovery.

The MEC encouraged road users, especially public transport movers, to be extra cautious on the road. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 02/26/2024 - 10:37

629 views

26 February 2024

Global leaders urged to reverse teacher shortage

Location: News

Global leaders urged to reverse teacher shortage

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on global leaders to do whatever it takes to attract bright young minds to join the teaching profession and address the issue of teacher shortages.

“To increase participation in this profession, we should provide competitive compensation and recognise teachers’ achievements,” the Deputy President said on Monday.

The country’s second-in-command is of the view that this could be achieved through the promotion of excellence and creativity and cultivating a sense of pride and purpose among educators.

The Deputy President was speaking at the 14th Policy Dialogue Forum of the International Task Force on Teachers for Education in Illovo, Johannesburg.

The task force is a global platform for education stakeholders, which aims to foster advocacy, knowledge exchange, peer learning and monitoring progress towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on quality education.

“As we gather here today, we are faced with a stark reality, which is a shortage of qualified and motivated teachers across the globe.”

This shortage, the Deputy President said, not only jeopardises the quality of education but also undermines collective efforts to achieve the SDG 4 goal of inclusive and equitable quality education for all.

“Instead of disregarding the situation and continuing as if everything is going according to plan, we need to acknowledge the problem and devise a solution that is both effective and efficient.”

The value of teachers

He also took the time to acknowledge the worth of teachers and the crucial role they play in shaping the future of nations.

Besides teaching and imparting knowledge to the future generation, Deputy President Mashatile said teachers play a crucial role in nurturing, fostering critical thinking, inspiring dreams, and pushing the limits of human potential.

“We thus owe it to these titans of our society to recognise, honour, empower, and value them as well as the job that they do.

“Most importantly, significant consideration must be made on how we should improve their working conditions and remuneration as a way of appreciating their hard work so that they can be able to fulfil their important task without getting discouraged.”

Shifting his focus to the digital age, he believes that governments should ensure that educators can effectively utilise new technologies to remain relevant and efficient in the current digital age.

The Deputy President also expressed his gratitude to the task force for recognising South Africa as a key player in the journey to achieving quality education for all by the year 2030.

“As South Africa, we feel privileged to have been allowed to co-chair the steering committee of the Teacher Task Force in collaboration with Germany.”

Finding solutions

He said he hoped his home country would learn from the good practices that will be shared at this forum.

“South Africa is optimistic that this Policy Dialogue Forum will untangle solutions for addressing the contents of the report.”

He also highlighted the issue of teachers assigned grades for which they have inadequate training and qualifications.

“More teachers are produced for the Further Education and Training (FET) band than for the General Education and Training (GET) band. This situation has necessitated the FET band teachers to migrate to the senior phase and teach Grades 7 and 8 classes.”

However, he said the government is addressing this matter through the Fundza Lushaka Bursary Scheme which aims to attract young teachers into the teaching profession and improve teacher salaries and working conditions and use of contracted teachers to deal with immediate needs.

He also paid tribute to the Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, who was selected to serve on a high-level panel convened by the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 02/26/2024 - 11:40

564 views

26 February 2024

Elections2024: Voter verifications underway

Location: News

Elections2024: Voter verifications underway

Following the proclamation of the election date of 29 May 2024 and closing of the voters’ roll, the Electoral Commission will today publish the provisional voters’ roll for inspection.

This is according to the Electoral Commission’s Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo, who briefed the media on Monday in Pretoria.

He said voter verifications as well as other validations are currently underway to ensure that there is compliance with the provisions of the law in respect of eligibility to vote.

“An electronic version of the voters’ roll will be made available at all offices of the Commission for inspection purposes. Those who wish to object to the inclusion or exclusion of a voter on the voters’ roll must do so by the 4th March 2024.

“The objections received on or before 4th March 2024 will be considered, investigated and determined by the Commission by 11 March 2024. It is important to remind roleplayers that objections to the voters’ roll are governed by the law,” Mamabolo said.

Mamabolo said the procedural as well as the substantive requirements of Section 15 of the Electoral Act must be satisfied when lodging an objection.

He said the pertinent aspects in this regard include outlining the relief sought and establishing the basis for such relief as well as serving the objection on the person against whom the objection is raised.

“Following the determination of voters’ roll objections, the Chief Electoral Officer will certify the voters’ roll on 12 March 2024. Electronic copies of the certified voters’ roll will be made available to contestants and a printed copy will be prepared for use in voting stations on Election Day,” he said.

Mamabolo said the proclamation of the election date by the President at the weekend has certain legal consequences for the electoral process.

“The first major implication is that the voters’ roll has now closed. This means no further voter registration may take place, either at a local office or online,” Mamabolo said.

He said the second implication is that the Commission is enjoined to publish an Election Timetable following consultation with the National Political Liaison Committee.

“This political consultation was also conducted on 23 February 2024, paving the way for the publication of the timetable. Accordingly, the 2024 timetable was published on Saturday, 24 February 2024.

“The timetable is the motive force in the intensive preparations for the delivery of the 2024 general elections. The timetable outlines all the key cut-off-times and dates for the performance of salient electoral activities. The timetable contains crucial performance dates for election contestants as well as the broad voting public.

“As regards the voting public, the focal point is accessing the voting process through special arrangements, including dates for applications for special votes and notifications to vote outside of voting stations of registration,” Mamabolo said.

The Chief Electoral Officer said as it pertains to contestants, the timetable is equally crucial in that it contains key dates to be complied with relating to the nomination of candidates and the payment of prescribed deposits.

Election Timetable

Notice of provisional voters’ roll available for Inspection

By 26 February 2024, the Chief Electoral Officer must give notice of the periods during which and the venues where the provisionally compiled voters’ roll compiled for the election shall be available for inspection in terms of section 14(2)(e).

Notice that list of addresses of voting stations is available for inspection

The Chief Electoral Officer must give notice by 12 April 2024, that from the date of the notice until the voting day, copies of a list containing the addresses of all voting stations will be available for inspection.

Notice of route of mobile voting stations

The Chief Electoral Officer must give notice by 12 April 2024, of the route, including the locations and estimated times of stopping of each mobile voting station.

Cut-off date for objections to the provisional voters’ roll

Any person, including the Chief Electoral Officer, may object to the inclusion or exclusion of a person on the provisional voters’ roll, or the correctness of any person’s registration details on that provisional voter’s roll, by 4 March 2024 in terms of section 15.

Cut-off date for notification and application to vote outside of the Republic

By 22 April 2024, a person who intends to vote outside of the Republic is required to notify the Chief Electoral Officer of their intention to vote outside of the Republic in terms of section 33(3) or (4), read with regulation 10.

Cut–off date for the commission to decide on objections to the provisional voter’s roll

By 11 March 2024, the Commission must decide any objection made in terms of section 15 in respect of the provisionally compiled voters’ roll for this election and notify the objector and the chief electoral officer and a person other than the objector whose name or registration details are involved.

Cut-off date for certification and publication of voters' roll

By 12 March 2024, the chief electoral officer must certify the voters' roll or the segments of the voters' roll to be used in this election in terms of section 24(2).

Cut-off date for submission of list of candidates and nominations of independent candidates

Registered parties that intend to contest this election must nominate and submit a list of their candidates for the election to the Chief Electoral Officer in the prescribed manner by 08 March 2024. Nominators of independent candidates that intend to contest this election must submit their nominations to the Chief Electoral Officer in the prescribed manner by 08 March 2024.

The objector or the registered party who nominated the candidate may appeal against a decision of the Commission in terms of section 30(4) to the Electoral Court in the prescribed manner by 02 April 2024. (2) The objector or the nominated independent candidate may appeal against a decision of the Commission in terms of section 31E(4) in the prescribed manner by 02 April 2024.

Cut-of date for notice of non-compliance by contestants in respect of lists of candidates

The Chief Electoral Officer must notify a registered party that has submitted a list of candidates in terms of section 27 but has not fully complied with section 27(2)(a), (b), (cA), (d) or section 27(4), of that non-compliance by 18 March 2024.

The Chief Electoral Officer must notify the person nominated to be an independent candidate, who has not fully complied with section 31B(3)(c), (d), (e), (f) or section 31B(4), of that non-compliance by 18 March 2024.

If the party or person notified in terms of sub-item (1) or (1A) takes the opportunity to comply with section 27(2)(a), (b), (cA), (d), section 27(4), section 31B(3)(c), (d), (e), (f) or section 31B(4), that party or person must do so by 20 March 2024.

Cut-off dates for notification of contestants of candidates appearing on multiple contestant list

The Commission must notify a candidate whose name appears on more than one party list for an election submitted in terms of section 27 and all the parties on whose party lists such a candidate appears by 22 March 2024. The Commission must notify a person who has been nominated both as an independent candidate and by one or more parties for an election; and all the parties on whose party lists such a candidate appears, of the multiple nominations by 22 March 2024. If the notified party decides to act in terms of section 28(3) or section 31C(3), that party must do so by 25 March 2024.

Inspection of lists of candidates and draft list of independent candidates and accompanying documents

The Chief Electoral Officer must give notice by 26 March 2024, that on 26 March 2024 and 27 March 2024, between 09:00 and 17:00, copies of the following documents will be available for inspection: The lists of candidates and accompanying documents submitted by registered parties in terms of section 27, as amended and supplemented in terms of section 28; and the draft list of independent candidates and accompanying documents submitted in terms of section 31B, as amended and supplemented in terms of section 31C.

Cut-off date for objections

Any person, including the Chief Electoral Officer, may object to a candidate to the Commission in the prescribed manner by 27 March 2024.

Decision of objections

The Commission must decide an objection under section 30 or section 31E, and must notify the objector, the registered party that nominated the candidate, and the nominated independent candidate, if applicable, of the decision in the prescribed manner by 28 March 2024.

Cut-off date for appeals against decisions

The objector or the registered party who nominated the candidate may appeal against a decision of the Commission in terms of section 30(4) to the Electoral Court in the prescribed manner by 02 April 2024. The objector or the nominated independent candidate may appeal against a decision of the Commission in terms of section 31E(4) in the prescribed manner by 02 April 2024.

Deciding appeals

The Electoral Court must consider and decide an appeal brought under section 30(4) or 31E(4) and notify the parties to the appeal, and the chief electoral officer, of the decision in the prescribed manner by 09 April 2024.

Application for special vote to Chief Electoral Officer

A person who wants to apply to the Chief Electoral Officer for a special vote in terms of section 33(1)(a),(b) or (c) or section 33(2) read with regulation 7,8 and 9, and section 33A(1)(a),(b) or (c) or section 33A(2) read with regulation 15,15A and 15B may do so from 15 April 2024 until 03 May 2024.

List of parties and candidates entitled to contest election and final list of candidates

By 10 April 2024, the Chief Electoral Officer must give effect to a decision of the Commission in terms of section 30(3), section 31E(3), or a decision of the Electoral Court in terms of section 30(5) or section 31E(5); and must compile a list of the registered parties entitled to contest the election, the final list of candidates for each of those parties, and the list of independent candidates contesting this election.

Issue of certificate to candidates

By 12 April 2024, the Chief Electoral Officer must issue in the prescribed manner to each candidate on a final list of candidates, and to each independent candidate on the final list of independent candidates, a certificate stating that the person is a candidate in this election in terms of section 31(3) and section 31F(3).

Casting of votes at foreign missions

A person who wants to cast a special vote at a foreign mission in terms of section 33(3) or (4), may do so on 17 May 2024 and 18 May 2024, between 07:00 and 19:00.

Visitation for the purposes of casting a special vote

A person who has applied for a special vote in terms of section 33(1)(a), read with regulations 7 and 8 and section 33A(1)(a) read with regulation 15 and 15A, may be visited by voting officers on 27 May 2024 and 28 May 2024, between 09:00 and 17:00.

Casting of special votes at the office of the presiding officer

A person whose application for a special vote has been approved and who wants to cast a special vote at the office of the presiding officer in terms of section 33(1)(b), (c) or 33(2) read with regulation 9, and section 33A(1)(b),(c) or 33A(2) read with regulation 15B may do so on 27 May 2024 and 28 May 2024, between 09:00 and 17:00. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 02/26/2024 - 14:16

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