SA News

18 February 2024

Condolences for Green Army member

Location: News

Condolences for Green Army member

Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment, Mbali Hlophe has expressed deep grief at the passing of a worker that was fatally shot while on duty at Jabulani Hostel in Johannesburg.

Mduduzi Mbense (38) was a member of the department’s Green Army - an Expanded Public Works Programme established to deal with waste management and greening through clean-ups of illegal dumping and litter-picking in communities, main roads, and open spaces.

Mbense was shot on Friday as he was leading a team of the Green Army at the hostel where he worked and resided.

The MEC has called on the police to leave no stone unturned in order to bring to book the perpetrator of the crime.

“We are gravely devastated for this untimely loss. I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues. May you all find strength and comfort during this difficult time,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 02/18/2024 - 11:17

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18 February 2024

SA welcomes ICJ injunction to protect civilians in Rafah

Location: News

SA welcomes ICJ injunction to protect civilians in Rafah

South Africa has welcomed an injunction by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to protect civilians in Rafah, Gaza.

This comes after the South African Government urgently appealed to the ICJ to assess Israel's recent declaration to expand its military presence in Rafah, which is the last refuge for surviving people in Gaza.

“The court affirms our view that the perilous situation demands immediate and effective implementation of the provisional measures indicated by the Court in its Order of 26 January 2024, which are applicable throughout the Gaza Strip, and has clarified that this includes Rafah,” the Presidency said on Friday.

Last month, the United Nations (UN) top court ordered Israel to, among others, take all measures within its power “to prevent and punish the direct and public incitement to commit genocide” and to immediately ensure that Palestinians have access to basic services and humanitarian assistance.

The Presidency said the court has accepted that that Israel's planned incursions in Rafah would render what is already a humanitarian disaster even more perilous.

It also accepted that the situation requires compliance with the existing provisional measures and accepted that compliance with the existing provisional measures requires the protection of civilians in Gaza including Rafah.

“The court decision has noted the ‘that the most recent developments in the Gaza Strip, and in Rafah in particular,’ would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare with untold regional consequences”, as stated by the United Nations Secretary-General (Remarks to the General Assembly on priorities for 2024 (7 February 2024).

“The court has unequivocally explained that compliance with the existing provisional measures requires Israel to ensure the safety and security of all Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

“Any decision by Israel to engage in military activities against Palestinians in the current circumstances is a violation of the order of the International Court of Justice,” the Presidency said.

The Court states in terms: “The Court emphasises that the State of Israel remains bound to fully comply with its obligations under the Genocide Convention and with the said Order, including by ensuring the safety and security of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.”

The Presidency said South Africa would continue to use existing channels such as the United Nations Security Council to ensure full and effective implementation of the existing provisional measures. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 02/18/2024 - 11:53

375 views

18 February 2024

President to attend opening of National House of Traditional Leaders

Location: News

President to attend opening of National House of Traditional Leaders

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the annual official opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL) in the National Council of Provinces chamber in Cape Town.

The event will take place in accordance with Section 33 (1) (b) of the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act, 2019 (Act 3 of 2019), and will mark the official opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders.

Distinguished guests are expected to attend the event on Thursday, 22 February 2024. They include Cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, and MECs responsible for Traditional Affairs, Kings and EXCO Members of Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders.

Additional guests include the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA), Royal Leaders of South Africa (Rolesa), Business Sector, Religious Sector, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and Representatives from Southern African Development Community (SADC) Countries, the National Khoi-San Council, as well as Chapter 9 Institutions. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 02/18/2024 - 12:28

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18 February 2024

Probe into Vaal River clean-up method

Location: News

Probe into Vaal River clean-up method

The Ministers of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, and Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, have noted public concerns related to the use of chemical, glyphosate, to clear alien invasive plants from the Vaal River by Rand Water.

“Following the complaints in the public domain, the two Ministers and other relevant parties met and agreed to determine whether the clearing methods followed were in line with the regulatory environment and to devise a future plan that ensures that the clearing of the alien invasive plants is done in a manner that poses no harm to the environment,” a joint statement by the two departments said on Saturday.

Once that process is concluded, the departments will issue a further statement on the way forward.

Rand Water provides bulk potable water to more than 11 million people in Gauteng, parts of Mpumalanga, the Free State and the North West.

According to media reports, the Vaal River has become overrun with water lettuce, which is a poisonous and highly invasive free-floating freshwater weed that is found in water bodies and slow-moving waterways in warm regions.

The water lettuce reportedly forms dense mats that clog waterways making boating, fishing, and other water activities, impossible.

These mats also degrade water quality by blocking the air-water interface and greatly reducing oxygen levels, which can result in fish die-off and the overall reduction of aquatic fauna and flora diversity. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 02/18/2024 - 10:22

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18 February 2024

President attends AU Heads of State Summit

Location: News

President attends AU Heads of State Summit

President Cyril Ramaphosa is attending the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

“The Assembly is expected to discuss the status of peace and security on the continent and the consideration of the report of the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC). The discussion will take place against the backdrop of great concern regarding the state of peace and security in some parts of the continent,” the Presidency said.

The highlight of the 37th Ordinary Session will be the launch of the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan of the AU’s Agenda 2063: “The Africa we want”.

Agenda 2063 serves as a fifty-year blueprint for Africa’s socio-economic development and integration, adopted by the African Union (AU) member states after extensive consultations across the continent.

The President is accompanied by a delegation of Ministers comprising of International Relations and Cooperation, Trade, Industry and Competition, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Public Service and Administration, Basic Education and Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

The AU Assembly is meeting under the theme, “Educate an Africa fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa.

The summit started on Saturday and will end on Sunday. The AU Assembly was preceded by the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council, which took place on 14, and 15 February 2024.

“South Africa has elevated the implementation of Agenda 2063 as one of the foremost priorities in the advancement of the African agenda. A key flagship project of Agenda 2063 in which South Africa is playing a leading role is the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (the AfCFTA), that serves as a milestone development in the evolution of the AU," the Presidency said.

South Africa is expected to attend and participate in several high-level committee meetings of the Assembly.

These include the meeting of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), which will be held to reaffirm Africa’s position on Climate Change, Presidential Dialogue on Africa's Agenda for Reform of the Global Financial Architecture and a Peace and Security Situation in the Eastern Region of the Democratic Republic of Congo Summit.

The President will present a report on the progress made in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa in his capacity as the Champion of the AU’s COVID-19 response. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 02/18/2024 - 10:42

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16 February 2024

Decrease in sexual offences crimes

Location: News

Decrease in sexual offences crimes

An intensive police awareness campaign against sexual offences-related crimes has yielded positive results with a decline in the number of sexual offences crimes registered in the country.

According to the quarterly crime statistics, reflecting on crimes that occurred between 01 October 2023 to 31 December 2023, sexual offences crimes, including rape sexual assault and contact sexual offences, registered an overall 1.7% decline during the period.

Presenting the crime stats on Friday, Police Minister, General Bheki Cele, said rape declined by 1.7% with six provinces, including Gauteng, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Northern Cape, and Western Cape, all registering a decline in this crime category.

The report also showed that more than 2 400 suspect raids led to 4 264 suspects being arrested for gender-based violence and femicide- related (GBVF) crimes, including rape and sexual assault.

A total of 112 life sentences were handed down to 89 rapists, while 64 rapists and GBVF perpetrators were each sentenced to 20 years and above imprisonment.

One hundred and seventy-two rapists and GBVF perpetrators were sentenced 10 to 19 years imprisonment, and 1 to 9 years imprisonment were handed down to 261 rapists and GBVF perpetrators.

Cele noted that the fight against GBVF crimes remains a priority for the men and women in blue.

More awareness programs are being conducted by the department’s social crime prevention and Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Units (FCS), which translates to an increase in the reporting of these crimes.

“What is most encouraging is that Inanda - which has always been known as the rape capital of the country - has also seen a slight reduction in the number of rape cases by registering 20 counts lower than the same period under review. This goes to show that our FCS teams are proving to be acting decisively against those who are perpetrating rape crimes,” Cele said.

However, he said it is of great concern that the majority of rape cases were committed at the victims’ residences.

Significant progress in finalisation of DNA cases

Meanwhile, the report has highlighted a significant progress in the finalisation rate of DNA cases and the eradication of the historic DNA backlog, which is currently standing at zero, from 251 000 in the 2021/2022 financial year.

Cele said the expansion of the DNA lab in Gqerberha, Eastern Cape, which was opened by President Cyril Ramaphosa in August 2023, has contributed immensely to the processing of more DNA samples in the country.

“All these efforts have contributed positively to the SAPS fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide cases. For example, the NPA and SAPS project has led to more than 40 000 DNA forensic reports being finalised to ensure that cases of GBVF are prioritised,” Cele said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 14:21

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16 February 2024

Festive Season crime operations yield results

Location: News

Festive Season crime operations yield results

Police Minister Bheki Cele says police went into the festive season well equipped to take on the task of tackling crime.

“For the third quarter (of this financial year), which includes the festive season, police officers were adequately resourced to deal decisively with criminals in all forms and shapes.

“We came into this festive period well prepared. We unleashed our Safer Festive Season operational plan on the 13th of October 2023, where we deployed various policing interventions,” Cele said.

Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria to release the quarterly crime stats, Cele on Friday said top police leadership gave strict instructions and a clear directive to officers on the ground to squeeze out all criminals from every corner of this country.

“It is clear that our efforts to prevent, combat and arrest criminals are proving to be effective,” Cele said.

The Minister said it is also quite clear with the number of arrests made that Operation Shanela is making its mark and putting a dent on serious, violent and organised crime.

Since its inception on 8 May 2023, Operation Shanela has seen more than 442 000 suspects getting arrested.

Cele said during this quarter, four major drug busts were registered. Three were at the Durban Harbour, where cocaine to the value of R300 million was seized in separate incidents.

“The most recent drug bust during this period was for cocaine to the value of R151 million on the 4th of December 2023. The fourth drug bust was at the Gqerberha Sea Port, where cocaine worth R65 million was seized,” Cele said.

Cele said in this period, R800 million worth of drugs were destroyed in Gauteng.

“These were drugs collected during policing operations across the country. Fifteen clandestine drug laboratories were shut down, with 21 suspects arrested for drug related charges, including manufacturing and dealing in drugs.

“Indeed, our intelligence structures are hard at work in preventing and putting a stop to the drug trade in the country and beyond.

“This is also a clear demonstration that all stakeholders involved in border security management are working together to tighten the control measures of cargo entering and departing our country,” the Minister said.

Cele said for the past two consecutive terms, police have noted a reduction in the number of murders reported.

“It is disturbing and concerning that the number of people murdered during this period increased by 2.1%, leading to 155 more people murdered compared to the same period.

“The provinces of KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Free State must be singled out and commended for being able to register a reduction in the number of people murdered during this period. The majority of the top 30 stations where murder was most reported include the Western Cape, KwaZulu Natal, Gauteng and Eastern Cape,” Cele said.

With regards to cash-in-transit (CIT) heists, Cele said the specialised teams put in place in each province are yielding results in ensuring that there is a reduction in the number of CITs taking place.

“During this period, 46 CIT armed robberies took place, which is 11 counts lower than the previous crime reporting period. In the past year, more than 75 wanted CIT suspects have been arrested during takedown operations.

“High calibre firearms, including rifles and AK47s, as well as high performance vehicles that were used in the commission of these crimes, were seized,” Cele said.

On construction mafia crimes, Cele said SAPS continues to deal decisively with this crime category.

He said construction mafias continue to pose a threat to business and the economy of the country.

“From April to date, more than 61 suspects linked to these extortions were arrested. Since 2019, 27 accused were convicted for a collective 43 years direct imprisonment,” Cele said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 14:27

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16 February 2024

IEC publishes seats determination for provincial legislatures

Location: News

IEC publishes seats determination for provincial legislatures

The Electoral Commission has published the seats determination for provincial legislatures ahead of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

The seats are determined in accordance with Section 105(2) of the Constitution Act 108 of 1996 and item 3(1) of Schedule 3 to the Electoral Act No.73 of 1998.

“The provincial legislatures’ seats determination takes into account scientifically based data on the population in each province, as well as representation by interested parties.

“The total number of seats to be contested in provincial legislatures is 445, subject to the finalisation of the Western Cape province,” the Electoral Commission said in a statement on Friday.

Seat determination is as follows:

PROVINCE 2022	CENSUS DATA POPULATION FIGURES	2024 SEAT DETERMINATION
Gauteng	15,1 million	80
Limpopo	6,4 million	64
Mpumalanga	5,1 million	51
North-West	3,8 million	38
Free State	3,0 million	30
Kwa-Zulu Natal	12,4 million	80
Northern Cape	1,4 million	30
Eastern Cape	7,2 million	72
Western Cape	7,4 million	Still to be finalised in accordance with the provincial constitution.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to announce the date for the 2024 national elections soon.
- SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 14:30

325 views

16 February 2024

Call for women economic empowerment to conclude GBV

Location: News

Call for women economic empowerment to end GBV

Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Deputy Minister, Nokuzola Tolashe, has called for the socio-economic empowerment of women, youth, and people with disabilities to end gender-based violence (GBV).

“Socio-economic challenges for women, youth and persons with disabilities remain persistent to this day and it is for the same reason that the department calls for 40% preferential procurement in the public sector,” Tolashe said.

She made the remarks after President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the State of the Nation Address, which highlighted myriad achievements -- while acknowledging the work that is still to be done -- after 30 years of democracy.

Tolashe said South Africa, like many other developing countries, continues to wrestle with the challenges of unemployment and structural economic marginalisation, insufficient skills development, high levels of violence, teenage pregnancies, and substance abuse.

She said these continue to hinder government’s progress in addressing the persistent triple challenge of poverty, unemployment and inequality.

The Deputy Minister said through the mainstreaming of women’s rights and advocacy, the department has over the years been able to coordinate and facilitate interventions to support economic empowerment and economic ownership for women, youth, and people with disabilities.

The mainstreaming of women’s rights and advocacy include promoting good governance regarding the rights and transformation of social and economic empowerment of women, among others.

“It is important that women, youth, and persons with disabilities, must enjoy equal access to adequate financing to start and scale their businesses, increase their incomes, and contribute to the country’s economy.

“It is through the department’s strategic outputs that the empowerment of women, youth and persons with disabilities continues to be at the centre of the national economic agenda,” Tolashe said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 15:02

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16 February 2024

Strategic integrated projects

Location: News

Strategic integrated projects

By Nomonde Mnukwa

It is often said that water is life, and this is indeed the case as no life can be sustained without water. However, very few people give a second thought about the infrastructure required to ensure clean, drinkable water.

In South Africa government is undertaking a massive infrastructure investment and build programme in the form of Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs), which are aimed at improving the quality of life for all South Africans.

Government is working to transform key sectors of our economy such as electricity, rail, ports and telecommunications through infrastructure. We are also working to rebuild and renew infrastructure in critical areas such as student accommodation, social housing water and sanitation.

Our focus on infrastructure is critical to driving economic growth and creating employment, while also ensuring that we can change lives and empower communities.

Over the medium-term the public sector is projected to spend R903 billion on infrastructure and a number of these projects have been completed, while many others are in the construction and procurement phases. In July 2020 a total of 62 Strategic Integrated Projects were gazetted that hold significant value in terms of growing our economy and driving development. These projects are currently being implemented across all three spheres of government, state-owned entities and the private sector.

Infrastructure in its most basic form is about bricks and mortar, but it is so much more than that. Every new road built enhances mobility and creates economic activity for communities. New schools open up the doors of learning and progress, and new housing developments bring hope and dignity.

The Strategic Integrated Projects are breathing life into many sectors of the economy, including potentially new and game changing ones. South Africa has amassed a pipeline of Green Hydrogen Projects with a value of over R300 billion, which are in project preparation stages. Among these projects, is the Boegoebaai Green Hydrogen in the Northern Cape with a potential to progressively create around 35 000 work opportunities. .

Since the first round of SIPs were gazetted in 2022, an additional 26 have been added, bringing the number of gazetted SIPs to 88. These include infrastructure projects in energy, water and sanitation, transport as well as digital communications infrastructure. The SIPs also cover human settlements, agriculture, and agro-processing.

A number of projects to the value of R21.4 billion have already been completed covering roads, energy and human settlements, while the total value of projects currently in construction is R313.5 billion. A number of projects are also in the procurement stage to the value of R295.2 billion.

There are various projects that have also been registered in the energy sector which once fully operational will assist in ensuring greater energy security for the country. The energy sector infrastructure project pipeline includes R180 billion of embedded generation investment.

Once all 88 SIPs are concluded there will be a massive increase in energy and water security. They will also further boost our Fourth Industrial Revolution ambitions and capabilities, while also ensuring that we provide homes, accommodation and revitalise the agricultural value chain.

Our investment in infrastructure is turning bricks and mortar into hope for a better tomorrow for all. It is creating new frontiers of growth and progress and will ultimately ensure that we create the South Africa we want.

*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS

Janine
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 14:53

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16 February 2024

President Ramaphosa hails democracy’s role in uplifting youth

Location: News

President Ramaphosa hails democracy's role in uplifting youth

President Cyril Ramaphosa says individuals born after the advent of democracy embody the essence of Tintswalo, as they have gone on to record commendable achievements in their lives and careers.

The President was responding to this week’s two-day debate on his State of the Nation Address (SONA) by Members of Parliament. The SONA was delivered a week ago in Cape Town.

A number of young people, who have benefited from government over the last 30 years, were present in the National Assembly to listen to the President’s response to the debate.

READ | Tintswalo, a child of democracy

“Today I am really honoured to have a number of Tinstwalos who have come to join us. Among these young people are aeronautical engineers, pilots, civil engineers, police officers, doctors, and a naval captain. They are qualified in a number of ways, all of whom have pursued their careers with the support of government departments and entities.

In his State of the Nation Address last week, President Ramaphosa introduced South Africa to Tintswalo, a child of democracy.

He said that for millions of South Africans, Tintswalo's story resonated deeply with their own, which prompted young people to post images online of themselves in their graduation gowns or at their workplaces, saying "#IamTintswalo".

“There are countless stories of young people who were born into abject poverty, but are now engineers, doctors, teachers, managers, tourism guides and operators, and entrepreneurs, thanks to the support and opportunities provided to them under democracy.

“They have spoken not only of how democracy has improved their lives, but of their gratitude to those who fought and strived to achieve that democracy. Many have paid tribute to their parents and grandparents – and to all the generations that came before – for the struggle and sacrifice that brought down apartheid and ushered in a new era of freedom,” he said.

Responding to those who greeted Tintswalo’s story with derision, the President said that these were people who sought to diminish the achievements of democracy.

"To them, it doesn’t matter that nine out of 10 households are now living in a formal dwelling, or that a similar number has access to clean drinking water and electricity.

“To them, it doesn’t matter that more South African adults have completed matric or earned a degree, or that more learners from poor communities are achieving Bachelor passes. It doesn’t matter to these people that South Africans now have a higher life expectancy or that maternal and child health have improved dramatically.

“It doesn’t matter to them that millions of people have been lifted out of poverty through the provision of houses, land, social grants, free basic services, expanded access to health care and education and the introduction of a national minimum wage.

"All of these great achievements of human development do not matter to them, because Tintswalo doesn’t matter to them. They are prepared to dismiss all of this progress because it does not serve their narrative of a failed nation. It does not serve their political aspirations. It does not serve their narrow interests."

The President said the journey to a brighter future continues. “We have travelled far and we have achieved much, but we have much further to go. We are clear about the progress that we have made, the challenges that we face, and the actions that we must now take,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 10:03

253 views

16 February 2024

SA records an increase in research and development expenditure after COVID-19

Location: News

SA records an increase in research and development expenditure after COVID-19

Gross domestic expenditure on research and development (GERD) has increased in real terms for the first time in four years.

GERD as a percentage of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached 0.62% in 2021/22, up from 0.60% in the previous year, indicating a slight improvement in research and development (R&D) intensity.

This represents a 6.9% year-on-year increase from R25.965 billion in 2020/21 to R27.756 billion in 2021/22, in terms of 2015 prices.

This is according to the latest South African National Survey of Research and Experimental Development.

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) conducts an annual survey for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII) on behalf of the Department of Science and Technology.

Chief Research Specialist and Principal Investigator at the HSRC, Dr Nazeem Mustapha, observed that countries that invest in research and development (R&D) at a high intensity are more likely to lead in global competitiveness.

“South Africa is striving to reach higher levels of R&D intensity by increasing expenditure on R&D, which in turn can lead to new industries and boosting of existing ones, job creation, increased productivity, and sustained economic growth,” Mustapha said.

GERD encompasses all spending on R&D on national territory in a given year and includes domestically performed research and development, which is funded from abroad but excludes funds paid abroad, such as to international agencies.

Key indicators highlight positive economic growth in South Africa for the period under review.

According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), South Africa’s GDP increased by 4.7% in 2021/22 after a 6% decline during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020/21.

“The growth in R&D expenditure is reassuring, although this comes off a very low base. The previous year’s decline in growth represented the biggest fall in R&D expenditure in the 20 years that the HSRC has been conducting the survey. We expect the next survey’s result to provide us with a better sense of what the trend is,” Mustapha added.

Data shows that R&D expenditure, funding and personnel movements’ nominal R&D expenditure rose across all five institutional sectors.

Funding

The study identified the R3.480 billion increase in business sector R&D expenditure as the main contributor to the increase in GERD.

The higher education sector increased R&D expenditure by R446 million, the government sector increased by R235 million and the not-for-profit sector increased R&D expenditure by R31 million.

The government remains the largest funder of R&D, accounting for 52.5% of total funding, followed by business (29%) and foreign sources (14.5%).

Meanwhile, foreign funding has increased significantly over the past decade, with most investments directed towards higher education and business sectors.

Personnel

R&D staff increased by 2 857 individuals (3.5% year-on-year) in 2021/22, including 1 716 researchers (a 2.8% increase).

Notably, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) increased their R&D expenditure, with R&D personnel numbers rising in various sectors.

Enterprises in the business sector employed 917 new R&D personnel, which includes technicians as well as researchers, however shed 140 researchers.

R&D personnel increased by 1 657 in the higher education sector, 155 in the government sector, and 79 in the science councils’ sector.

The non-profit sector recorded an increase in the R&D personnel headcount of 49.

In 2021/22, 1.9 full-time equivalent researchers were employed for every 1 000 R&D workers, an increase of 0.1%.

Gender

The ratio of female researchers as a percentage of total researchers rose by 0.4 percentage points to 47%.

Key sectors

R&D activity has increased in the manufacturing and financial services sectors, which drive most R&D expenditure.

Meanwhile, medical and health sciences, along with social sciences, continue to receive the highest R&D expenditure, at 22.8% and 18.4% respectively.

The field of research with the third-highest R&D expenditure in South Africa is information, computer, and communication technology (13.1%), which surpasses the engineering sciences field (11.7%), while growth in social sciences is stagnant.

“A longitudinal analysis of shifts in the proportions of researchers and technicians, as well as the overall movement of R&D personnel, is of value,” said Dr Glenda Kruss, Executive Head of the HSRC Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII).

She said such analysis, which is now possible with time series data covering the past two decades, can inform future investments to grow skills and capabilities for the national system of innovation. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 10:48

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15 February 2024

Citizens urged to reflect on 30 years of freedom

Location: News

Citizens urged to reflect on 30 years of freedom

As South Africa marks 30 Years of Freedom, citizens have been urged to remember how far government has come in improving the lives of South Africans and undoing the damaging legacy of apartheid.

“As we mark 30 Years of Freedom, we must not exercise our reflections and recollections without remembering exactly where we’ve come from or without acknowledging what has confronted us as a society in our journey to here,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said in Cape Town.

Addressing a joint debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Wednesday, the Minister said despite the global economic meltdown of 2007 and 2008 as well as the COVID-19 pandemic, government has continued to provide economic opportunities for citizens.

“Tintswalo or the Black Diamonds as they are generally referred to or the national breadwinners as they called themselves during the COVID19 vaccination period, continue to lead the installation of digital connectivity in deep-rural KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces. They work as young black and women engineers at our power stations,” the Minister said.

She said government has also provided opportunities for young people to work side by side to create a sovereign launch capability that has allowed the country to take satellite technologies into space and they are the bedrock of the more than 10 000 small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) that are suppliers to the National School Nutrition Programme.

The Minister said that young people are the engineers and contractors behind the more than 750 000 km road network from 525 000 km in 1995.

“Yes, some of the provincial and municipal roads have potholes but we are intervening. Currently South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has taken over 2 600 km of roads transferred from provinces so we can use its road construction and maintenance capacity to deliver better roads and with more under consideration,” she said.

She added that in the past five-years, SANRAL has executed projects to the value of R120 billion, which translated to just under 45 000 job opportunities and the participation of almost 6500 black owned SMMEs.

“Just this January, SANRAL announced another R28 billion injection into the industry with the implementation of over 70 projects. SANRAL’s work to improve the country’s road network is complemented by Operation Valazonke aimed at closing potholes on municipal roads across all municipalities. We are aware that some municipalities are progressing faster than others,” Ntshavheni said.

Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa

The Minister affirmed that work is underway to rebuild the network industries to ensure it services the country more effectively.

“Despite the teething challenges, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has restored operations on 26 out of 40 commuter rail corridors following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the criminality that vandalised our rail infrastructure.

“Of these restored service lines, 19 of them are operated with the new trains. PRASA has received 184 new trains that have been built in Nigel, Ekurhuleni. In addition, 276 Metrorail coaches have been upgraded or refurbished, 97 train stations have been refurbished, and 29 cooperatives are responsible for cleaning and basic maintenance of these stations.

“Through the capital spend, PRASA created more than 46 000 job opportunities. Even Transnet is starting to register a turn-around at its operations with the arrival of critical equipment, irrespective of the weather – those containers can be loaded and offloaded at the harbour.”

Promoting public employment

She noted that eight consecutive Quarterly Labour Force surveys have indicated an improvement in the unemployment situation in the country – with 16.7 million people in employment by the end of the third quarter of 2023 – the first to surpass the pre-COVID-19 employment levels.

“Although six million youth are now in employment, the challenge of youth unemployment like the world over remains. It is for that reason that President [Cyril] Ramaphosa led the establishment of initiatives like the Youth Employment Service (YES) in partnership with private-sector partners.

“YES has created over 130 000 work experiences for young people to date. Over 1.7 million work and livelihood opportunities for unemployed South Africans have been created through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which prioritised predominantly youth and women.”

Key achievements in the stimulus include:

Employing 1.1 million education and general assistants in 23 000 schools.
Providing production input vouchers to 180 000 small-scale farmers.
Providing 29 000 opportunities in environmental management and rehabilitation.
Employing 107 000 people across 6 500 worksites through the Social Employment Fund.

“The SA Youth Mobi platform was launched, which provides pathways for young people to employment, learning and youth enterprise. To date, over 4.8 million young people have registered on the platform and more than one million have been placed in earning opportunities.

“The National Youth Service has been revitalised, offering young people opportunities to undertake work that builds the community and provides them with skills, self-confidence and work experience. Over 47 000 participants were placed in the first phase of the National Youth Service,” the Minister said.

She said all these achievements have been made possible by South Africans who consider it their duty to be part of transforming the country and undoing the damaging legacy of apartheid.

“The work done during the sixth administration and 30 years under the democratic dispensation is to ensure we leave no-one behind, despite the hand this President’s tenure was dealt,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:12

561 views

15 February 2024

Parliament prepares to host National Budget Speech

Location: News

Parliament prepares to host National Budget Speech

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana will outline all the financial, economic, and social commitments that government will prioritise in its planned expenditure during the National Budget Speech next week.

Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA) and outlined national government's plans to tackle the country's energy crisis and other socio-economic challenges.

“The Budget Speech, among others, aims to balance economic growth and support for the vulnerable in our society, despite limited resources. Godongwana will provide a detailed plan for 2024 spending, including proposals for revenue collection to help fund government’s planned interventions and commitments.

"He will also introduce the Appropriation Bill and table the Division of Revenue Bill, which Parliament will process in the following months,” Parliament said on Wednesday.

The Minister will present the budget allocation for 2024 to Parliament on Wednesday, 21 February at 2pm at Cape Town City Hall.

“Godongwana’s 2024 Budget Speech will be broadcast live on Parliament’s DSTV Channel 408, livestreamed on Parliament’s website and social media platforms, including Parliament’s YouTube Channel. Parliament will also provide live feeds to interested broadcasters upon request,” Parliament said.

Parliamentary sittings are open to the media and the public.

Members of the public can follow parliamentary sittings live on Parliament TV (DSTV Channel 408), through a live stream on Parliament’s website, Parliament’s YouTube channel, and X (Twitter) page on the links below:

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/ParliamentofRSA
Facebook: https://facebook.com/ParliamentofRSA
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ParliamentofRSA

– SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:32

642 views

15 February 2024

Investigation launched after skull found next to graveyard

Location: News

Investigation launched after skull found next to graveyard

Police in Mbuzini, Mpumalanga, have opened an investigation following the discovery of a human skull next to a graveyard and railway line on 13 February 2024.

While performing their duties, police received information from the community about a human skull found at Hhoyi Trust next to Mbuzini.

The police responded and upon arrival found the skull on the ground. Other relevant stakeholders were summoned to the scene. An inquest has been opened.

“Currently, police are working hard to get the identity of the person whose skull belongs to, hence any member of the public with information that may assist in achieving this goal may go to the nearest Police Station or call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111,” said the police in the statement.

Alternatively, members of the public can send information via My SAPS App.

All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:55

443 views

15 February 2024

Parly keen to see NLC prosecutions

Location: News

Parly keen to see NLC prosecutions

The Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition on Wednesday committed to doing everything in its power to ensure that criminals involved in the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) corruption are brought to book.

The committee received an update from the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) regarding its investigations into the NLC and another from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) on cases referred to it.

“We want to assure the South African public that this committee is determined to see the criminals prosecuted,” said Committee Chairperson Judy Hermans.

These investigations emanated from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s proclamation of 6 November 2020 for the SIU to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration at the NLC from 1 January 2014 to 6 November 2020.

The SIU said that the phase 1 investigation is now complete, at a cost of R279 710 409. Meanwhile, the phase 2 investigation is 90% completed, at a cost of R246 659 310. It will be finalised by 30 April 2024.

The SIU is also busy with phase 3 of the investigation, currently valued at R905 901 910, which is expected to be finalised on 31 December 2024.

At Wednesday’s session, the committee heard that the interim report is currently under review and will be submitted to the Presidency by 29 February 2004.

Furthermore, the committee heard, in almost all matters under consideration, very little of the money approved for grant recipients was used for the intended projects, nor was it received by the intended beneficiaries.

In some cases, no money was spent on the projects it was intended for.

The committee also heard that a syndicate or syndicates operated within the NLC and worked in conjunction with non-profit organisations (NPOs) or beneficiaries to syphon off funds.

Methods used to syphon off funds included misusing the proactive funding provision in the NLC Act, inadequate project management, lack of monitoring and evaluation of projects, and collusion between NLC officials or certain board members and the NPOs.

Steps taken

Furthermore, because of new allegations surfacing about procurement, the SIU is applying for an amendment to the scope of the President’s proclamation to include these allegations and the motivation for this is currently being drafted by their business development unit.

Meanwhile, the SIU has seconded members to the NLC to start processing some of these allegations while awaiting the new proclamation.

The committee also heard that the Asset Forfeiture Unit has seized several properties and stopped the pay-out of a senior NLC official’s pension, after the official resigned before disciplinary action could begin.

The NPA assured the committee that the NLC matters are a priority. The NPA has obtained three preservation orders in the NLC cases, in the meantime. The first order was obtained on 21 December 2022 to the value of R56.3m and included one movable property, nine immovable properties and two franchises.

It has been established that the cash purchases for the properties were linked to grants allocated by the NLC. A total of R22.4 million in grant funding was used to pay for the fixed properties.

The second preservation order was obtained on 28 September 2023 for five immovable properties to the value of R14.8m. The third preservation order was obtained on 4 November 2023 for an amount of R23.2m against four immovable properties and three luxury vehicles.

The NPA indicated that various interlocutory applications had delayed the forfeiture applications, but it has endeavoured to secure the preservation orders speedily.

The NLC is meanwhile in the process of conducting lifestyle audits on its officials to lower the risk of similar incidents in future.

Hermans said that while the committee favoured lifestyle audits for NLC staff, extending this to the NLC board members should also be considered.

“We want to assure the South African public that this committee is determined to see the criminals prosecuted.

“We are happy to see progress. However, we are extremely concerned by comments that there are still officials of the NLC involved in alleged crime and urged the new NLC board and management to address this with urgency,” Hermans said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 14:49

222 views

15 February 2024

Challenges remain, but South African lives believe been improved during democracy

Location: News

Challenges remain, but South African lives have been improved during democracy

President Cyril Ramaphosa says despite challenges, the lives of millions of South Africans have been transformed since the dawn of democracy in 1994.

The President was delivering his reply to the State of the Nation Address (SONA) debate held at the Cape Town City Hall.

“The debate in this House over the last two days has shown that there are sharp differences among political parties about our past. There are also sharp differences about our present and indeed about our future as well.

“Yet amongst all the contributions made in the debate, no speaker has been able to refute a fundamental reality that the lives of millions of South Africans have been transformed over the 30 years of freedom. This is the reality… whether we like it, or we don’t like it, that is the reality we confront,” he said on Thursday.

The President said the transformation of South African lives can be found in the recent national census conducted by Statistics South Africa, which shows “extraordinary improvements on a range of social and economic indicators over the past three decades”.

“This transformation is most evident in the lived experience of our people, who have witnessed the changes in their own communities and who have also witnessed the changes in their own personal lives,” he said.

Facing challenges

President Ramaphosa acknowledged that although progress has been made, there are critical issues that need to be addressed with urgency.

“We need to celebrate the fact that young people… have had the opportunities that were never available before. But we also need to recognise, as we did in the [SONA] that young people… still have many challenges.

“Despite everything we have achieved, many South Africans, young and old, are concerned about the state of affairs in our nation, and rightly so. Many people cannot find jobs. Even people with jobs wonder if they will be able to provide for their families as the cost of living increases,” he said.

The President further acknowledged other challenges, including crime, load shedding, corruption and municipalities that are struggling to deliver services. He said the sixth administration is hard at work to resolve these issues.

He listed gains that government has made in sectors, including in the economy, tourism and the agricultural sectors as measures of progress

“Over the last five years, we have made significant progress in restoring our economy to grow and create jobs. When COVID hit, our economy tanked and just to demonstrate the resilience of our economy, it bounced back and now it is above the pre-COVID period.

“We have seen the results of these efforts in the growth of our agricultural exports. In 2022, South Africa’s agricultural exports reached a record $12.8 billion or R247 billion and we are the top food secure country on our continent.

“We have seen a massive increase in international tourists coming to our country. Between January and December last year, our country recorded 8.5 million international tourist arrivals, which was a 29% increase on the previous year,” he said.

He assured the country that government will remain steadfast in its quest to “build a better life for all of democracy’s children”.

“As a nation, we continue to write the story of Tintswalo. Through our collective actions, through our sheer determination, we will ensure that all the Tintswalos of this country, together with their parents and grandparents, overcome the many challenges of the present.

READ | Tintswalo, a child of democracy

“It is by working together that we will continue to write the story of our free nation and of a future of peace, comfort and prosperity for all,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 15:40

253 views

15 February 2024

Early detection crucial for treatment of childhood cancer

Location: News

Early detection crucial for treatment of childhood cancer

The Department of Health has encouraged healthcare workers and communities to be mindful of early signs of childhood cancer.

Identifying these signs, according to the department, can lead to early detection and the successful management of childhood cancers, resulting in better outcomes.

The call was made as South Africa joins the global community in commemorating International Childhood Cancer Day on Thursday to raise awareness about childhood cancers and to express support for children and adolescents living with cancer, survivors, and their families.

The day is observed on 15 February annually to highlight the vital role of community engagement and support in addressing the complexities associated with childhood and adolescent cancer.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), more than 1 000 children are diagnosed with cancer every day around the globe.

Meanwhile, it is estimated that 1 000 new cases of child cancer are recorded annually by the South African Children’s Tumour Registry (SACTR), but many are missed and do not receive treatment.

“Parents, educators, general practitioners and paediatricians play a crucial role in early detection of childhood cancers,” the department explained.

According to the department, knowing the early signs of childhood cancers is important.

These include a white spot in the eye or sudden blindness, a lump on any place on the body mostly on the stomach, unexplained fever or weight loss, aching bones and easy fractures, and a change in walk and headache with or without vomiting.

The common childhood cancers in South Africa are leukaemia, lymphoma, brain tumours, eye and kidney tumours.

The department in collaboration with the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology of Oncology (SAAPHO), WHO and CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA acknowledge and commend the significant contributions made by various stakeholders, including the medical community, civil society, parent groups, non-governmental organisations and individual members of society.

CHOC CEO, Hedley Lewis, said these contributions support children and adolescents with cancer, survivors, and their families.

“Cancer impacts negatively on siblings and other family members. The challenges these families face extend beyond medical treatment, encompassing emotional, physical and social, financial, educational, and long-term health effects,” she explained.

According to the Chair of the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology Oncology, Professor Gita Naidu, there is a need to raise primary health care and community awareness of Siluan’s early warning signs of childhood cancers especially among parents, caregivers and educators.

“Early diagnosis and swift referral to treating centres is imperative to improve the outcomes of this dreaded disease. Childhood cancer is curable, but only if diagnosed and treated timeously,” Naidu added.

The WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), launched in 2018, aims to improve the overall survival to 60% globally by 2030 and allow these children and adolescents to live and die without pain and suffering.

“South Africa remains committed to focusing on childhood cancer and is aligned with the WHO-GICC goals.”

The statement stated that SAAPHO and CHOC are hosting SIOP Africa in Johannesburg from 4 to 8 June 2024.

The conference is an opportunity to share knowledge, collaborate, and engage with stakeholders nationally, on the continent and globally to improve the lives of children and adolescents with cancer. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 13:37

171 views

15 February 2024

Sixth administration cracking down on crime – Lamola

Location: News

Sixth administration cracking down on crime - Lamola

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola says the sixth administration is steadily rebuilding law enforcement agencies like the National Prosecuting Authority to fight crime.

Lamola was speaking during the debate of the State of the Nation Address held in Cape Town.

“[It] is the sixth administration that strengthened the work of law enforcement agencies like the NPA [National Prosecuting Authority] by appointing permanent leadership in the upper echelons of the NPA and the SAPS [South African Police Service] and increased the operational budget resulting in visible institutional growth and stability.

“Organized crime verdicts have increased by 21% from 193 to 234 at a conviction rate that is above 80%. Gang leaders are behind bars or in court, whether it is Jerome Booysen, Nafik Modak, Ralph Stanfield, Mark Lifman and Vusi Khekhe, all are behind bars.

“The conviction rate in gender-based violence and femicide matters is at 74.6%. When it comes to successful prosecutions for cable theft matters, the NPA has exceeded some of the targets, the conviction rate is well above 85%, 299 convictions have been obtained from 347 cable theft verdicts,” Lamola said.

The Minister added that R3.2 billion from the criminal assets recovery funds has been allocated to fighting illegal mining and organised crime.

Furthermore, 2 996 arrests have been executed related to illegal mining activities as at December last year.

“SAPS is implementing Operation Shanela, a comprehensive plan to combat crime throughout the country. The plan includes clamping down on illegal mining areas.

“At the end of last year, the Asset Forfeiture Unit, Special Investigation Units and the Hawks have secured preservation orders to freeze assets which are proceeds of unlawful activities of a syndicate dealing in unwrought gold in Gauteng province.

“The frozen assets include 51 properties with a value of more than R16 million. In Mpumalanga, they secured a preservation order of assets worth more than one billion rands. The message is clear, crime does not pay and the tide against crime is turning,” Lamola said.

‘I am Tintswalo’

Harking back to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s SONA last week in which he described the life of Tintswalo, Lamola described how he himself is a product of progressive government policies.

He recalled how he benefitted from the Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA), now known as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), after his parents who were both farmworkers could not afford his tertiary education.

“I can stand here in this house [and say] with great conviction that had it not been for …government’s expansion of TEFSA and my sister paying for my university registration and monthly stipend, I would not be standing here today.

“I would not have been an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa having appeared in the highest Court in the world, the ICJ, on global affairs. My life was predestined as a farm worker [by] design by the apartheid government and not by choice.

“The village where I come from, Cunningmore B in Mpumalanga, had no electricity nor running water. Today there is electricity, running water and tarred roads, so are many villages across the country.

“[NSFAS]…results are tangible. You can touch them with your bare hands,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:59

338 views

15 February 2024

Two SANDF soldiers killed in DRC, three wounded

Location: News

Two SANDF soldiers killed in DRC, three wounded

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) confirmed on Wednesday that three soldiers were killed and two injured in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

This, according to a statement released yesterday, was after a mortar bomb landed inside one of the South African contingency military bases.

The soldiers are 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.

“As a result of this indirect fire, the SANDF suffered two casualties and three members sustained injuries,” the statement read.

The injured members were rushed to the nearest hospital in Goma.

According to the SANDF, details of the incident are still sketchy at the moment, while further investigations will be conducted to determine the basis of the incident.

The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise, along with the Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thabang Makwetla, the Acting Secretary for Defence, Dr Thobekile Gamede, and the Chief of the SANDF General, Rudzani Maphwanya, have since expressed their heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers.

They also wished the injured members a speedy recovery. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 10:56

137 views

15 February 2024

Eskom load limiting project moves to Eastern Cape town

Location: News

Eskom load limiting project moves to Eastern Cape town

State power utility Eskom says it will be going live with the piloting of load limiting at Bedford in the Eastern Cape.

This comes after the successful implementation of the project in another Eastern Cape town, Adelaide.

Eskom Cape Coastal Cluster General Manager Mbulelo Yedwa said: “Electricity load limiting through smart meters is being implemented to better balance the supply and demand of electricity on the grid during Stages 1 to 4 of load shedding allowing customers to continue to use essential appliances with the capacity of up to 10 Amperes.”

The power utility explained that instead of being load shed during Stages 1 to 4, customers with smart meters in Bedford will have their load limited.

“An hour before the start of load shedding, these customers in selected pilot areas will be prompted to reduce their consumption from 60 Amperes to 10 Amperes by sending a message to the Customer Interface Unit (CIU) of the smart meter.

“Customers will also be notified by text message. If the customer load is still above 10 Amperes, the smart meter will automatically make two more attempts 30 seconds apart. After three failed attempts, the next reset will be in 30 minutes,” Eskom said.

The initiative, according to Eskom, is aimed at reducing the impact that load shedding has on customers with the following benefits:

Customers will still be able to use essential appliances during load limiting e.g lights, TV, cellphone charger, fridge, security.
No more delayed restoration of supply after load shedding due to failure of equipment.
Avoid theft and vandalism of Eskom infrastructure. Protect equipment fatigue from repetitive switching.
Reduction in cable faults

“It is the responsibility of the customer to reduce consumption by switching off non-essential appliances and only keep connected essential appliances up to a maximum of 10 Amperes for the duration of the load limiting period,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 10:10

164 views

15 February 2024

Northern Cape man sentenced for child pornography

Location: News

Northern Cape man sentenced for child pornography

The South African Police Service (SAPS) Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola has welcomed the eight year sentence handed down to a 45-year-old for possession of child pornographic material.

This as the De Aar Regional Court sentenced John Henry Meiring on Wednesday.

Lieutenant-General Otola commended Lieutenant Colonel Marli Strydom for her relentless efforts that led to the arrest of the accused on 22 February 2022 and for the conviction and sentencing.

The South African Police Service, Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI), a specialised unit within Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) in the Northern Cape, discovered that the accused was in possession of pornographic images of children.

The accused's cell phone and hard drives were seized for investigation purposes. During the analysis of the exhibits, 773 pornographic images of children were found on the devices.

Addressing crimes against women, children and vulnerable persons remains a top priority for the SAPS in the province. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:34

158 views

14 February 2024

Unemployed doctors to be placed by April, says Minister Phaahla

Location: News

Unemployed doctors to be placed by April, says Minister Phaahla

Government is working tirelessly to ensure that unemployed doctors who want to join the public service are placed by 1 April this year, Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla has announced.

This follows an ongoing public outcry over doctors who have completed statutory community service programmes but remain unemployed.

“I am, therefore, happy to announce that working with the Minister of Finance we have a solution to address the current challenge of doctors who want to stay in the public service but could not be offered funded posts,” said the Minister.

During the debate on the President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), Phaahla said the Finance Minister will flesh out more details during his Budget Speech next week on how these posts will be funded.

“Our national team is working with the National Treasury team to thrash out the details and working with provincial health departments to speed up the process so that by 1st April 2024 all those who will not be already in posts can be able to start.”

Phaahla said he was confident that some provinces will even be able to start giving out appointment letters before 1 April 2024.

“The measures we are working on with the Minister of Finance will give us sufficient breathing space while we are working on long-term solutions.”

He told Parliament that over the last 15 years, government has ramped up the training of doctors both in the local universities and the Nelson Mandela Fidel Castro programme in Cuba.

The number of graduates, according to Phaahla, has almost doubled over the last 10 years, from 1 338 graduates who entered the internship programme in 2014 to 2 210 this year.

“The medical profession is very key in the multidisciplinary teams and that is why we are doing everything to retain as many doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and other members of the teams in the public health system.”

In addition, he said his department was committed to working with the medical association and the trade union to look at more opportunities for doctors including offering primary health services in the community as the State prepares to implement the National Health Insurance (NHI).

NHI

He told the House that the government interventions are laying the foundation for the implementation of the NHI.

Phaahla also took the time to thank members of both the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) who passed the Bill last year.

As stated in the Bill, he said the NHI will be implemented in two remaining phases from 2024 to 2026, while between 2026 and 2028 government will focus on establishing the Board and CEO and several key committees of the NHI Fund.

“We are confident that the innovative funding of infrastructure as stated by the President will also contribute to health facilities.”

In the meantime, he said his department was strengthening key delivery areas.

These include the healthcare benefits design, digital health systems, and risk identification and fraud prevention.

COVID-19

Since the lifting of all restrictions in June 2022, he said the health sector has been on a recovery path.

“Honourable Speaker and Honourable Members indeed as stated by the President, key indicators show that we have recovered well from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

For example, he cited the improved life expectancy approaching pre-COVID, the continued reduction in maternal mortality in pregnancy and reduced infant and under-five mortality rates.

Meanwhile, he said backlogs in planned surgery procedures including in orthopaedics, general surgery and eye operations are being attended to through the mobilisation of specialists to spend time in under-served areas with many doing it free of charge.

In addition, Phaahla said procurement and distribution of medicines has stabilised with the result and that public health institutions now have stock availability of 85%.

As stated by the President in his SONA, the department will also focus on serious interventions to improve the quality of health services by upgrading infrastructure, including building new facilities. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 09:32

637 views

14 February 2024

Recovery region for power outages in Karoo underway

Location: News

Recovery plan for power outages in Karoo underway

Eskom says its electricity supply recovery plans for towns in the Karoo, which lost power due to severe damage to infrastructure during inclement weather, are progressing well.

The damage cut electricity supply to Sutherland, Roggeveld, Laingsburg, Ladismith, Leeu Gamka, Swartberg, Merweville, Matjiesfontein, Prince Albert, Fraserburg and the surrounding areas.

“Eskom's recovery plan to repair the infrastructure… is making significant progress with the electricity restoration date (ETR) in sight. The ETR remains this Thursday, even though teams are pushing to secure an earlier date and time to bring back electricity supply to the affected towns in the Karoo,” the power utility said.

Eskom assured customers that repairs are “near completion”.

“To date, the intermediate structures have been planted. Two conductors, with one phase each, are running along the intermediate structures as part of the stringing process. The remaining four conductors will be run today, with stringing to commence.

“Eskom understands the frustration of these customers that must endure such a prolonged period without electricity and can assure them that the multiple teams onsite are working around the clock to bring back supply as soon as possible.

“Eskom thanks all its stakeholders for their continued support and the affected customers for their patience and understanding,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 09:58

454 views