SA News

9 February 2024

President calls for two-State solution to conclude Israel’s war on Gaza

Location: News

President calls for two-State solution to end Israel's war on Gaza

President Cyril Ramaphosa has once again used his public platform to reiterate his call for a two-State solution between Israel and Palestine and condemn the killing of civilians.

“Guided by the fundamental principle of human rights and freedom, we have taken up the
Palestinian cause to prevent further deaths and destruction in Gaza,” President Ramaphosa said during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday night.

The country’s first citizen also took the time to welcome the ruling of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that Israel must take all measures within its power to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians.

South Africa approached the top UN court last year to request to order Israel to halt its military operations in Gaza, and also to ask the court to find the Israeli government guilty of committing acts of genocide.

The ICJ ruling delivered last month found that it was “plausible” that Israel committed acts which violated the Genocide Convention.

The ruling issued by the ICJ ordered six provisional measures, including for Israel to refrain from acts under the Genocide Convention, prevent and punish the direct and public incitement to genocide, and take immediate and effective measures to ensure the provision of humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.

“We condemn the killing of civilians on all sides and call on all parties involved in the conflict to commit to a peace process that will deliver a two-state solution.

“Today, every South African can hold their heads high, confident that we have assumed our rightful place on the world stage,” President Ramaphosa said.

The Head of State said South Africa remains committed to playing a constructive role on the continent and around the globe for the realisation of a better Africa and world.

“We will continue to play an important role in silencing the guns throughout our continent.”

During his televised address, he said government's involvement in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict through the Africa Peace Initiative is progressing with various parties.

“We engage in these peace efforts because we believe that even the most intractable conflicts can be brought to an end through negotiations.”

In addition, he said the country will continue to use its foreign policy to pursue developmental goals.

“During our leadership of BRICS last year, we witnessed a new chapter for the BRICS family of countries.”

President Ramaphosa labelled the expansion of the group from five to 10 members as an opportunity for trade and a strengthening of political and diplomatic ties between countries in the global South.

“We will build on the progress we have made in establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area, which will transform South Africa’s economy and that of the continent by creating new jobs and increasing economic participation.”

The President also vowed that the country will place Africa’s development at the top of the agenda when South Africa hosts the G20 in 2025.

“The achievements over the last three decades are a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership to address our most pressing challenges.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 02/08/2024 - 22:24

518 views

8 February 2024

Tintswalo represents every of us – Minister

Location: News

Tintswalo represents all of us - Minister

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says the Tintswalo story referred to by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday evening is an inspiration for many South Africans.

“The Tintswalo story is a representation of all us,” Minister Ntshavheni said.

This as the President in the SONA painted a picture of a child born in 1994, named “Tintswalo. He said Tintswalo grew up in a society that was worlds apart from the South Africa of her parents, grandparents and great-grandparents.

“The story of the first 30 years of our democracy can be best told through the life of a child called Tintswalo born at the dawn of freedom in 1994. She grew up in a society governed by a constitution rooted in equality, the rule of law, and affirmation of the inherent dignity of every citizen,” said the President as he narrated her story.

He described her upbringing as being in a household provided with basic water and electricity, in a house where her parents were likely to have lived without electricity before 1994.

Speaking to SAnews, Ntshavheni said Tintswalo is a representation of all those who are called the “Black Diamonds” of their families.

“Tintswalo is a representation of progress we have made as a country that a child from Makwarela can be a Minister, that a child from Tshifudi can be a lawyer, that a child from Dzingidzingi can be a nurse, that a child from an ordinary family can become a doctor,” said the Minister.

The address delivered by the President was the last one for the sixth administration which saw the President being inaugurated on 25 May 2019.

In his address on Thursday, the President reflected on the progress made by the country as it marches to celebrate 30 years of freedom this year.

The SONA marks the official start of the Parliamentary programme. It will be followed by a debate in the National Assembly and the President’s reply to the debate. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/08/2024 - 22:38

182 views

8 February 2024

Government to extend and improve R350 grant for the unemployed

Location: News

Government to extend and improve R350 grant for the unemployed

President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured South Africans that government will extend and improve the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant as the next step towards income support for the unemployed.

Delivering the last State of the Nation Address (SONA) for the sixth administration at the Cape Town City Hall, the President said government introduced the special grant during the pandemic, which currently reaches some 9 million unemployed people every month.

“We have seen the benefits of this grant and will extend it and improve it as the next step towards income support for the unemployed.

“These grants and subsidies do much more than give people what they need to live. They are an investment in the future.

“Social assistance has been shown to increase school enrolment and attendance, lower drop-out rates, and improve the pass rate,” the President said.

Prioritising ECDs and early grade reading initiatives

Turning to basic education, President Ramaphosa said that government will over the next five years prioritise expanding access to early childhood development and enhancing early grade reading initiatives.

The President highlighted that significant progress is already underway with improving early grade reading demonstrating the administration's commitment to this area.

Last year, the latest Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) showed that 81% of Grade 4 pupils in South Africa can’t read for meaning.

“Over the next five years, we will focus our attention on expanding access to early childhood development and improving early grade reading, where we are already beginning to see progress.

“Moving early childhood development to the Department of Basic Education was one of the most important decisions as we were now able to devote more resources to early childhood development and ensure that through cooperative governance, various departments of government get involved in early childhood development augmented by the Department of Basic education,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa reflected that one of the worst injustices of apartheid was the manner in which education was used as a tool to perpetuate inequality.

Over the last 30 years, he said, the democratic government has sought to use education as a tool to create equality.

“Our basic education outcomes are steadily improving across a range of measures. The latest matric pass rate, at 82.9%, is the highest ever. And with each new year, learners from no-fee schools are accounting for more and more of the bachelor passes achieved. At the same time, fewer learners are dropping out of school.

“We have increased funding for poor and working-class students in universities and TVET significantly over the past five years,” he said.

Tackling poverty

Regarding efforts to tackle poverty, President Ramaphosa said government’s policies and programmes have, over the course of 30 years, lifted millions of people out of dire poverty.

“Today, fewer South Africans go hungry and fewer live in poverty. In 1993, South Africa faced a significant poverty challenge, with 71.1 percent of its population living in poverty.

“However, under the democratic government, there has been a consistent decline in these numbers. By 2010, the poverty rate had dropped to 60.9 percent, and it continued to decrease, reaching 55.5 percent in 2020, as reported by the World Bank. This progress has been made possible by extensive support to those in society who need it most,” he said.

Five years ago, government introduced a further measure to tackle poverty by introducing the National Minimum Wage as envisaged in the Freedom Charter.

President Ramaphosa said the decision by key role players, being business and labour and communities, to introduce the minimum wage immediately raised the wages of over 6 million workers. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 02/08/2024 - 21:58

165 views

8 February 2024

Tintswalo, a child of democracy

Location: News

Tintswalo, a child of democracy

As the country marks 30 years of democracy, President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his State of the Nation Address (SONA) to outline how government has impacted the lives of ordinary people over the past three decades.

Painting a picture of a child born in 1994, the President told a story of Tintswalo who grew up in a society that was worlds apart from the South Africa of her parents, grandparents and great-grandparents.

“Tintswalo, and many others born at the same time as her, were beneficiaries of the first policies of the democratic state to provide free health care for pregnant women and children under the age of six. Tintswalo’s formative years were spent in a house provided by the state, one of millions of houses built to shelter the poor,” President Ramaphosa said on Thursday.

He described her upbringing as being in a household provided with basic water and electricity, in a house where her parents were likely to have lived without electricity before 1994.

“Tintswalo was enrolled in a school in which her parents did not have to pay school fees, and each school day she received a nutritious meal as part of a programme that today supports nine million learners from poor families.

“The democratic state provided a child support grant to meet her basic needs. This grant, together with other forms of social assistance, continues to be a lifeline for more than 26 million South Africans every month.

“With this support, Tintswalo – democracy’s child – was able to complete high school. Through the assistance of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, Tintswalo attended one of our Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and obtained a qualification,” the President said.

When Tintswalo entered the world of work, she was able to progress and thrive with the support of the state’s employment equity and black economic empowerment policies.

“With the income she earned, she was able to save, to start a family, to move into a better house, and to live a better life. This is the story of millions of people who have been born since the dawn of our democracy,” President Ramaphosa said.

Lifting millions out of poverty

Delivering the last SONA for the sixth administration at the Cape Town City Hall, the President said government’s policies and programmes have lifted millions out of dire poverty.

“Today, fewer South Africans go hungry and fewer live in poverty. In 1993, South Africa faced a significant poverty challenge, with 71.1 percent of its population living in poverty. However, under the democratic government, there has been a consistent decline in these numbers.

“By 2010, the poverty rate had dropped to 60.9 percent, and it continued to decrease, reaching 55.5 percent in 2020, as reported by the World Bank. This progress has been made possible by extensive support to those in society who need it most,” the President said.

Five years ago, government introduced a further measure to tackle poverty by introducing the National Minimum Wage as envisaged in the Freedom Charter.

“The decision by key role players, being business and labour and communities, to introduce the minimum wage immediately raised the wages of over 6 million workers,” the President said.

He said today, nearly nine out of every ten households live in a formal dwelling.

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

“Where there were once shacks and mud houses, there are now homes of brick and mortar. These are homes with water to drink and to wash with, homes with electricity for lighting and cooking.

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

South Africans living longer than ever before

“Life expectancy has increased from 54 years in 2003 to 65 years in 2023. Maternal and infant deaths have declined dramatically. We have built more hospitals and clinics, especially in poor areas, providing better quality care to more South Africans.

“Today, 95% of persons diagnosed with HIV know their status, 79% of those receive antiretroviral treatment, and 93% of those are virally suppressed. New HIV infections among young people have declined significantly,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 02/08/2024 - 20:55

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8 February 2024

Guests open to arrive for SONA 2024

Location: News

Guests begin to arrive for SONA 2024

As the moment grows closer for President Cyril Ramaphosa to deliver the State of the Nation Address this evening (SONA), guests have begun streaming in for the much anticipated event at the Cape Town City Hall.

Preparations are on track for the SONA which coincides with the opening of Parliament.

Speaking on the red carpet, Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, said: “[I am looking forward to] everything that the President will talk about, giving an account of the work that we committed to when he delivered last year’s SONA and what it is he’s going to bring for this financial year especially because we are in the last year of the [sixth] administration”.

For his part, Minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi, said: “All I can say is, let’s allow the President to report on our behalf as the Executive. Only then will we able to elaborate as the different Executive Members on the statement of the President to the nation.”

Deputy Minister of Health Sibongiseni Dhlomo was more pointed and said he hopes the President will “hint” as to when the National Health Insurance Bill will be signed into law.

“I can only be territorial and speak about what one would like to see on health. Last year, you had the National Health Insurance Bill going to the two Houses. In June last year, it was passed in the National Assembly and in December it was passed in the [National Council of Provinces].

“That Bill is now at the desk of the President and the excitement is that the President will hint, not give us a day, that he will be signing this Bill into law,” Dhlomo said.

A very special guest at this evening’s proceedings is praise singer or imbongi, Senziwe Hatty Maliba, also known as Nkosatane Nziwe.

The 24-year-old is tasked with ushering in the President as he enters the chambers to deliver the address.

“I am excited. It is a great honour to be here and it is a great platform as well. I have been preparing ever since they told me that I have been chosen to usher in the President with a poem. The poem is about everything…society,” she said.

The President is expected to deliver his address from 7pm. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 02/08/2024 - 17:28

388 views

8 February 2024

Government conducts travel survey

Location: News

Government conducts travel survey

The Department of Transport has encouraged the public to participate in its annual travel survey on the accessibility of all transport systems to people with disabilities, elderly people, women and children.

“Parents of children are encouraged to complete the survey on behalf of their child, and assistants to persons with disabilities are also encouraged to do so, with the person with a disability who they assist,” the department said on Thursday.

The purpose of the travel survey is to benchmark progress in rolling out the White Paper on National Transport Policy 2021, which indicates that all forms of transport must be universally accessible.

“We invite anyone who receives this Survey who does not fall into the above categories, to please pass the link onto those who do. The link is: https://ee.kobotoolbox.org/x/xum3p8pV

“This travel survey is run in partnership with the information and communications technology (ICT) ICT Subcommittee on Universally Accessible Transport, which meets with the Department of Transport quarterly,” the department said.

This year’s results will be shared with the Presidential Working Group for Persons with Disabilities. The President has endorsed a drive to speed up the process to make transport accessible to all. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 02/08/2024 - 14:35

138 views

8 February 2024

SONA 2024 a ‘unique’ milestone after 30 years of democracy

Location: News

SONA 2024 a 'unique' milestone after 30 years of democracy

South Africans can look forward to a “unique” State of the Nation Address (SONA) this evening, as the important event is being held against the backdrop of the country preparing to commemorate 30 years of democracy.

This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, who was addressing the media in Cape Town on Wednesday.

SONA will be held at the Cape Town City Hall from 7pm.

“This [SONA] is different and unique in so many ways. It is important that it is allowed its own expression and that South Africans can take out of it the celebratory element. We are marking 30 years of our democratic dispensation. It is also the last SONA under the sixth administration.

“And so what you will have is a reflection of the past 30 years, coupled with an account of the work of the sixth administration over the last five years. It is important you allow those key elements to be expressed as much as possible without adding other issues,” he said.

Magwenya explained that the delivery of SONA is a Constitutional imperative.

“There is a Constitutionally mandated democratic tradition for the President to open Parliament. So it’s not just about the State of the Nation Address; it’s the opening of Parliament. This is something that has been part and parcel of our democratic dispensation since 1994.

“We urge all South Africans to follow the address as it deals with the state of the nation; not the state of only one segment or some segments of the nation. It is the state of all of the nation,” he said.

Having their say

This year’s SONA will be held under the theme: “Following up on our commitments: Making your future work better” and on the streets of South Africa, citizens expressed their views on what they believe the President should take stock of.

Mosito Moshatane from Kliprivier said: “I hope the President will address the issue of human settlements. I think people are living in places that aren’t good because they are desperate [for housing]. The queues are too long for them to be waiting”.

Nicardo Nell from Upington said: “This year I think it’s very important for us… to listen to the SONA because I think it will give us hope and direction.”

Prudence Faku said: “It is important that the President addresses the issues that we have, so that we know what the plans are going forward; what the problems are and how we can tackle those issues.”

Local is lekker

During a media briefing held by Parliament’s Presiding Officers this week, National Assembly Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said the holding of SONA has a greater impact beyond the walls of the Cape Town City Hall.

She said Parliament, together with Proudly South African, have come together to encourage guests and Members of Parliament to walk down the red carpet in garments produced by local designers.

“The campaign aims to increase appreciation and visibility for local designers and their creations, and to provide momentum for the growth of the fashion business. This initiative goes beyond mere fashion appreciation; it seeks to connect consumers with the rich stories, culture, and creativity inherent in South African fashion, thereby fostering a sense of pride in local craftsmanship.

"This partnership has far-reaching implications for the country’s economy and the fashion industry. Encouraging public representatives and guests to don local designs sends a powerful message of support for local business, which is crucial for economic growth, job creation, and addressing issues of inequality and poverty.

“This collaboration between Parliament and Proudly South African is not only a celebration of South African talent but also a step towards sustainable development, economic empowerment, and a more responsible fashion industry,” she said.

The local economy is also expected to receive a boost.

“SONA significantly boosts the local economy by attracting increased tourism, media presence, and business activities to the city.

“This influx of visitors and heightened economic activity during the SONA period contributes to job creation and increased revenue for local businesses, including hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors,” she said.

The Speaker encouraged South Africans to have their say on SONA.

“We encourage all South Africans to actively participate in SONA by tuning in and expressing their views across the various communication platforms provided by Parliament, government and mainstream media," said Mapisa-Nqakula.

SONA will be broadcast live on Parliament TV, mainstream broadcasters, and streaming services, ensuring comprehensive access and engagement for everyone across the nation.

"Let us come together as a nation to witness, discuss and reflect on the state of our nation, as we continue to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and resilient South Africa,” Mapisa-Nqakula said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 16:08

393 views

8 February 2024

Citizens express their wishes ahead of SONA

Location: News

Citizens express their wishes ahead of SONA

Reducing unemployment and tackling crime are some of the items on the wish list of Capetonians that they hope President Cyril Ramaphosa will speak to when he delivers the State of the Nation Address (SONA).

“I want to know what government has in store for us this year. I want to know what we going to get from government,” Swartbooi said.

Speaking to SAnews, Swartbooi said she wants government to provide people with employment, houses and to build more schools.

“Government must create more jobs so we could provide for our children,” she said.

This as President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to deliver the SONA, which will be the last one for the sixth administration, at 7pm on Thursday.

SONA is a joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament – the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces - and is called by the President in terms of Section 42(5) of the Constitution

This year’s address is of special significance as the country will celebrate 30 years of freedom.

The State of the Nation Address sets out government’s key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead and government has called on South Africans to familiarise themselves with the content of SONA so everyone can contribute to the country’s growth and development.

During the address, the President will highlight achievements, flag challenges and outline interventions to unlock development.

Meanwhile, Calvin Mentjies said government must create more jobs as this will reduce crime.

“People are stealing because they are not employed We need government to intervene,” he said.

Malon Oosthuizen wants the President to increase grants saying the cost of living was too high.

“We want government to increase pension grants as things are too expensive now, we can’t afford to get the things we need for our daily living,” he said.

Oosthuizen says government must also tackle corruption and crime.

“People are getting robbed and killed daily by these ruthless criminals. Government must also arrest all those who are stealing from government and committing fraud because is the innocent people who suffers,” he said.

In preparation of SONA, road closures in the central business district will be in effect to assist with traffic flow and to accommodate the State of the Nation Address at the City Hall. The closures will affect the normal flow of traffic in and around the City Bowl.

In his address, President Ramaphosa will speak to political, economic and social issues and the general state of South Africa as well as its relations in Africa and abroad. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 16:21

116 views

7 February 2024

Dirco dismisses Nigerian High Commission’s ‘warning’ ahead of Afcon semi-final

Location: News

Dirco dismisses Nigerian High Commission's 'warning' ahead of Afcon semi-final

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has assured that South Africa does not pose any danger to Nigerian citizens, as the two countries are set to face each other in the semi-final match of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) tonight.

This assurance follows a safety advisory issued by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria on Tuesday, for its citizens residing in South Africa.

“The attention of the Nigerian High Commission Pretoria has been drawn to potentially inflammatory online comments made by a section of South African citizens against Nigeria living in the host country, largely influenced by the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations Bafana Bafana [semi-final] on Wednesday,” their statement read.

The commission has advised citizens to be cautious of where they watch the match, particularly in public places, and to avoid loud, riotous or provocative celebrations if Nigerians win the match, both before and after the game.

However, the Dirco has since described the commission’s advisory as “unfortunate”.

“The advisory is regrettable because it seems to create alarm and unnecessary tension between the citizens of South Africa and Nigerians living in or visiting South Africa,” the department said.

“The South African national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, has played against their Nigerian counterparts, the Super Eagles, on many occasions, and there has been no history of soccer hooliganism among South Africans associated with the outcome of such encounters.”

The department has since called on the diplomatic representatives to approach the department to address any concerns about diplomatic matters.

“We are confident that the sports-loving nation of South Africa poses no threat to Nigerian citizens, and we do not agree with the apprehension expressed by the High Commission.”

Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana is said to be confident ahead of the Afcon semi-final clash against the Super Eagles.

“Yes, we know and understand who we are up against. We know the might of this team and that their players play all over Europe. We also know that last time in an Afcon what the result was, but this time it’s different. It’s different players, a different team and a different Afcon. Anything is possible,” the Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, was quoted saying on Tuesday.

The South African Football Association (Safa), also cited captain and goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, who was the man of the match in the quarter-final clash against Cape Verde.

Williams made history after saving four penalties out of the five penalties in a shootout – something that has never been achieved at the Africa Cup before.

“After seeing the players run for about 130 minutes non-stop, it was my turn to stand up and do my part. I’m happy it went our way but ultimately this is a team sport. I don’t like to take credit because they fought just as hard. So, reaching the semi-finals here means we did it together,” he said.

Kick off is at 19:00 this evening. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 09:14

864 views

7 February 2024

MEC saddened by death of Grade 1 Gauteng learner

Location: News

MEC saddened by death of Grade 1 Gauteng learner

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed devastation at the death of a Grade 1 girl learner who passed away after allegedly consuming biscuits from a local spaza shop.

In an incident that took place on Tuesday, it is alleged that the learner from Mandlethu Primary School in Tsakane, Brakpan, began experiencing health complications in class just before break at 11am and started vomiting a few minutes later.

According to the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), the learner’s parents were contacted immediately to come to the school, while emergency services were also alerted to provide the necessary medical assistance.

“Unfortunately, the learner was certified dead by paramedics upon arrival. According to information at our disposal, the parents confirmed that the child had consumed biscuits which were bought from a local spaza shop owned by foreign nationals,” the GDE said.

Police are investigating circumstances surrounding this incident, while the department’s Psycho-Social Support Unit has been deployed to provide trauma support and counselling to all affected individuals.

“We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident.

“We plead with parents to be vigilant concerning the edible goods that their children consume. We call upon law enforcement agencies and municipalities to be more stringent on compliance matters related to spaza shop products. Indeed, we wish to extend our sincerest condolences to the family and the school community at large,” MEC Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 09:34

519 views

7 February 2024

Cloudy conditions expected ahead of SONA

Location: News

Cloudy conditions expected ahead of SONA

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) predicts a cloudy start to Thursday’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), with skies clearing in the afternoon and moderate winds.

“There will be a cloudy start to the day but clearing up as the day progresses and becoming more partly cloudy to sunny conditions later on for tomorrow,” the SAWS told SAnews.

The SAWS predicts mild temperatures around mid-20 degrees Celsius with a moderate south-westerly wind expected throughout the day.

“There is a weak cold front that is passing through tonight and if there’s any rain, it will be through the night or the early hours of tomorrow morning,” the SAWS explained.

This as all roads lead to the Cape Town City Hall where President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver his highly anticipated SONA.

The address is an opportunity for the President to account to the nation on government's work and to set the State’s programme of action.

The President's speech will touch on the general state of South Africa, and reflect on a wide range of political, economic and social matters within the domestic and global contexts.

The address will be followed by a two-day joint debate on his address and he will then reply to issues raised in the debates.

During this important joint sitting of Parliament, the President usually also makes key government announcements.

Activities prior to the President delivering the SONA include a 21-gun salute, an aircraft fly-past, a ceremonial guard and the step guard salute.

There will also be the singing of the national anthem, a full military band, and ceremonial processions involving provincial Speakers, Premiers, the judiciary, the Deputy President, and the President.

The President will be ushered into the National Assembly by praise singer, Senziwe Hatty Maliba, a 24-year-old from Nkomazi in Mpumalanga. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 14:12

260 views

7 February 2024

President Ramaphosa expected to announce Election Day within 15 days

Location: News

President Ramaphosa expected to announce Election Day within 15 days

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to announce the date for the 2024 national elections within 15 days of the State of the Nation Address, which is to be delivered tomorrow evening.

“We look forward to the President delivering the State of the Nation Address tomorrow at 7pm. It it will be the administration’s seventh - in a year which marks 30 years since Parliament ushered in the democratic dispensation,” Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said.

Addressing the media at the Imbizo Media Centre in Cape Town earlier today, Magwenya urged all South Africans to follow tomorrow’s address as it deals with the state of the nation, not only the state of one segment or some segments of the nation.

“We are united in the progress we have made and united in the work we need to do to address the challenges we face,” he said.

Magwenya said the President was recovering well from the flu and would be up to the task of delivering his address.

“Last night we were with him going through the draft [speech] until very late. By then he had improved significantly,” Magwenya said.

On Friday, the President will be up at dawn to warm up for the annual Presidential Golf Challenge.

“The Presidential Golf Challenge is coordinated by the Minister of Public Service and Administration and will raise funds for the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation.

“The Foundation’s partner entity, the Adopt-A-School Foundation, will use the funds to construct ablution facilities at schools in support of the Department of Basic Education’s SAFE Initiative, which stands for Sanitation Appropriate for Education,” Magwenya said.

“This is an important investment in the dignity of learners and staff at our schools and a contribution to social infrastructure in the country,” Magwenya said.

The President is honoured that his playing partner this year is 14-year-old Botshepehi Phakoe from Mangaung in the Free State.

“Botshepehi is one of the best young players in the Free State Junior Union and we hope he doesn’t put too much pressure on the President on the first tee,” Magwenya said.

On Friday evening, the President will express his appreciation to the event’s sponsors and partners at a prizegiving dinner where players will be recognised.

This year’s SONA holds special significance as it is not only the end of term, but also the address ahead of South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy.

This is an opportunity to reflect on how far the nation has come and recommit to working together to build the country envisioned at the start of democracy.

The State of the Nation Address sets out government’s key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead.

During the address, the President will highlight achievements, flag challenges and outline interventions to unlock the country’s development.

The address marks the official start of the Parliamentary programme. It will be followed by a debate in the National Assembly and the President’s reply to the debate. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 14:17

331 views

7 February 2024

Taking stock of the sixth administration

Location: News

Taking stock of the sixth administration

Thursday’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) to be delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the last one to be made by the sixth administration.

The President - in his capacity as Head of State and government - will deliver the annual SONA at 7pm, before a joint sitting of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

Just as individuals usually make a list of their goals at the start of each year, and the steps they need to take to attain them, the SONA similarly sets out government’s key policy objectives as well as deliverables for the year ahead.

The President is expected to reflect on the gains made and the areas that still need attention since the last SONA.

However, having been inaugurated as President on 25 May 2019, President Ramaphosa is also likely to look back on the term of his administration.

According to the Presidency, this administration “took office with a mandate to grow the economy, create employment and reduce poverty.” It was also tasked with putting an end to corruption as well as “restoring the integrity and capability of public institutions.”

Government has over the years made progress in improving the lives of those within the borders of South Africa.

Advancements have been made in the key priorities of growing the economy and job creation, building better lives, making communities safer and fighting crime.

Over the years, irrespective of the administration at the helm, an inclusive economy in which all South Africans can partake in, has and continues to be a top issue for government.

Fixing the economy and load shedding

In order to grow the economy, reliable energy supply is essential and energy security is cited in the country’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP). In July 2022, government launched the Energy Action Plan (EAP). The EAP is a set of steps to be taken to address load shedding.

Government has amended Schedule 2 of the Electricity Regulation Act to remove the licencing requirement for generation projects to accelerate private investment.

By September 2023, more than 100 projects were at various stages of development, representing over 10 000 megawatts of new generation capacity and over R200 billion in private sector investment.

Other steps taken to reform the electricity sector include the tabling of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill in Parliament.

In addition, progress continues to be made towards the unbundling of Eskom, with the newly established National Transmission Company of South Africa (NTCSA) obtaining its operating, trading, and import and export licences from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa in September 2023, allowing the company to operate independently from the power utility. This as government works to separate Eskom into the Generation, Distribution and Transmission entities. Last month, Eskom announced the appointment of the National Transmission Company of South Africa board.

This is one of the most important pillars of Eskom’s legal separation which will “create a level playing field to enable competition in electricity generation, as a key step towards energy security,” noted the 'Leave No One Behind 2024 – A Five-Year Review', document released by the Presidency earlier this week.

The sixth administration also oversaw the appointment of Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, in March last year as part of efforts to address power cuts and to expedite government’s work to ensure the full implementation of the EAP.

At a recent media briefing on the implementation of the plan, Ramokgopa said that work continues to address partial load losses – that is, when Eskom’s generating units do not produce the full capacity, they were intended to.

In November 2023, South Africa received the first consignment of 450 gasoline generators donated by the People’s Republic of China. The donation formed part of the Technical Assistance Programme that was entered into in August 2023 during China’s Head of State Visit to South Africa.

Jobs and investment

The ERRP was government’s response to the severe health, social and economic effects of the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic.

Announced in 2020, the plan was founded on engagements among social partners, including government, labour, business and community-based organisations.

October 2023 marked three years since government embarked on the plan, which outlined the actions to rebuild the economy and create jobs in the wake of the pandemic.

The government has put in place the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI). Through the initiative announced in 2020, at least 135 000 earning opportunities were secured by young people.

On Tuesday, the President held a presidential youth engagement in Cape Town reflecting on the three years since the initiation of the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES) and PYEI.

According to the Presidency, the PES and PYEI programmes have “collectively generated over 1.8 million job opportunities and provided livelihood support, predominantly benefiting young individuals”.

The sixth administration also oversaw the successful raising of the R1.2 trillion worth of investments over five years that President Ramaphosa announced in 2018.

Held annually over the past five years, the South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) surpassed the initial R1.2 trillion target to reach R1.51 trillion in investment pledges. To date, there are concrete results of how the pledges made at the conference are changing lives and creating employment.

The review document notes that of the commitments made, over R500 billion has already flowed into the economy.

Having made pledges continually at the SAIC, Procter &Gamble in November 2023 launched a state-of-the-art production line of Pampers Premium Care which the President attended in Kempton Park in Ekurhuleni.

Another company which pledged R135 million at last year’s SAIC is also making good on its commitment.

In October 2023, energy company, Ener-G-Africa, launched an energy-efficient cook stove manufacturing line in Paarl, and expanded its solar panel production line from 15MW to 500MW capacity.

The company pledged R135 million in the production of small solar PV panels and solar cooking appliances at their women-led production facility in Cape Town.

AfCFTA

President Ramaphosa also oversaw the launch of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as Chairperson of the African Union, which is currently the largest free trade area in the world. The AfCFTA which entered into force in May 2019, is expected to boost trade and economic growth on the continent.

Trading under the AfCFTA regime commenced January 2021 and last month South Africa practically realised the AfCFTA agreement. This as the President officiated the launch of the first export shipment of goods produced by South African companies destined for other African countries from KwaZulu-Natal’s Durban port.

Better lives and education

On building better lives, the current administration introduced the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for the first time in the country’s history, guaranteeing a minimum floor below which no worker may be paid with the coming into effect of the minimum wage on 1 January 2019.

The President had announced its coming into effect in December 2018.

Back in 2019, the minimum wage was set at R20 an hour and has increased over the years. Currently standing at R25,42 the minimum wage will increase to R27,58 for each ordinary hour worked with effect from 1 March 2024.

Click here for more on the “National minimum wage increases”.

To ensure healthcare for all, Parliament passed the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill last year after it was introduced in 2019. The Bill aims to provide free health care at the point of care for all South Africans. In preparation for the NHI, Health Patient Registration Systems have been installed in over 3 200 facilities.

Meanwhile, social grants for people most affected by COVID-19 were expanded, including the Special Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant, which reached around 11 million unemployed people.

On the education front, no-fee schools which government introduced in 2007 have continued to ensure that children get access to schooling. To date, the number of learners that are not required to pay school fees increased from 71% to 75% in 2021.

In addition, the latest matric pass rate, at 82.9%, is the highest ever, up from 78% ten years ago. Learners from no-fee paying schools accounted for more than 65% of the total bachelor passes obtained. The percentage of learners who completed 12 years of education rose from 45% in 2008 to 62% in 2022.

Safer communities

The sixth administration has increased the number of police officers including the recruitment of 20 000 police trainees and an additional 4 000 public order policing members in 2022 and 2023.

In addition, 20 specialised South African Police Service Economic Infrastructure Task Teams have been established to work with business, private security and state-owned enterprises to tackle illegal mining, construction site extortion, cable theft and vandalism of economic infrastructure.

The review noted that by November 2023, the teams had made over 4 000 arrests for damage of critical infrastructure, 70 arrests for extortion at construction sites and over 3 000 arrests for illegal mining, and confiscated significant quantities of copper cable, rail tracks and other metals.

Government also launched the Border Management Authority as the third armed force to manage and secure the country’s borders, providing a vital link in government’s efforts to harness the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

On tackling gender-based violence and femicide(GBV), he National Strategic Plan on Gender-based Violence was developed, together with civil society, as a society-wide response to this national emergency. Around R21 billion has been dedicated over the medium term to the implementation of the six pillars of the plan, including the economic empowerment of women.

Meanwhile, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has achieved an average conviction rate of 94% in femicide prosecutions and 75% in sexual offences prosecutions since 2019.

In addition, the GBVF Response Fund 1 was launched, which raised R200 million from the private sector for community-based organisations combating GBV. In the first year of the Fund’s operation, 53 community-based organisations were funded, reaching 280 000 participants.

Fighting corruption

The NPA Investigating Directorate was established to prosecute state capture and other significant corruption cases.

To date, the Investigating Directorate has taken 34 state capture and corruption cases to court, involving 203 accused persons and 65 accused entities. The NPA has also secured the conviction of over 500 government officials and nearly 800 in the private sector on offences related to corruption since 2019.

In addition, a SIU Special Tribunal was appointed to expedite civil claims against corrupt individuals and the recovery of stolen funds. Since its establishment, it has recovered over R8.6 billion.

As the country prepares for its 30 years of freedom celebration, the sixth administration has certainly done its bit in a challenging environment. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 15:11

268 views

7 February 2024

Mashatile calls for more to be done to transform mining industry

Location: News

Mashatile calls for more to be done to transform mining industry

Deputy President Paul Mashatile believes that although the Mining Charter has achieved some success in reforming the mining industry, more still needs to be done.

“The 30 years of our nation’s democracy should compel us to become even more proactive about the issue of economic transformation in this industry and country.”

The Deputy President delivered a keynote address at the South African Youth Economic Council (SAYEC) Business Dialogue during the Mining Indaba in Cape Town.

“The transformation of this sector is important because it forms a vital part of our country's development trajectory, driving infrastructure development, which includes the construction of roads, railways, and power plants, and positively impacting the economy.

“Our country's rich natural resources provide a comparative advantage in processing, manufacturing, and beneficiation through mining value chains,” he told attendees on Tuesday.

The Deputy President said while the economic growth of the sector is important, its transformation is equally important, to the extent that it is inclusive of women, youth, and other marginalised groups in society.

“The subject of diversity and inclusion in the mining sector should be at the top of our agenda. We must ask ourselves, ‘How can we ensure equitable sharing of social and economic benefits in the mining sector?’”

He took the time to call on young people to explore opportunities that will make them a key part of this sector, integrating it with manufacturing and technology.

“As a youth, you should identify your role in the value chain and position yourselves in a way that empowers you and benefits the mining sector globally.”

The Deputy President is of the view that the economic viability of the mining sector relies on developing strategies for expanding the industry through mineral beneficiation and improving the economic and social contribution of the sector.

“This presents an opportunity for youth inclusion in the value chains associated with the mining sector.”

Deputy President Mashatile cited President Cyril Ramaphosa who opened the indaba and told guests that mining has a key role to play in building the economy of tomorrow.

“You are the future of this country, and you need to take advantage of the valuable resources and huge business opportunities in the mining industry,” President Ramaphosa said at the opening of the indaba on Monday.

In addition to diamonds and gold, the Deputy President said the country also contains reserves of iron ore, platinum, manganese, chromium, copper, uranium, silver, beryllium and titanium.

“We must capitalise on the increased demand for these raw materials to build our nation's economy and attract more investors.”

Transformation and skills development

As South Africa marks 30 years of democracy this year, the Deputy President acknowledged that the country's mining industry has undergone significant transformation.

For almost 150 years, mining has been a crucial part of South Africa's economy, contributing around 7.5% to the gross domestic product (GDP) and accounting for about 60% of the country's exports by value.

Referring to the latest survey undertaken by the Minerals Council of South Africa, he said it found that 32 member companies reviewed, largely complied with the five key transformation elements of the 2010 Mining Charter.

These elements included ownership, employment equity, procurement, human resources development, and mine community development.

“It is worth noting that the surveyed companies achieved a weighted average of 39.2% ownership equity by historically disadvantaged South Africans, which exceeds the Charter's 26% target.”

In addition, he emphasised the significance of skills development for the youth that are not in employment, education and training between the ages of 15 and 24 in efforts to address unemployment.

The Deputy President challenged the mining industry to provide skills-development opportunities that will lead to much-needed employment opportunities.

“It is time for us, as government and private sector, to invest more than ordinary resources in the development of our youth. We must allow them to voice their concerns, and their proposed solutions must be valued and integrated into the broader strategy for economic growth.”

He noted government’s commitment to including the youth in its sustainable development strategy.

“Our mining policies are more than paperwork; rather, they are strategic frameworks that direct us towards mining operations that are responsible, sustainable, and socially inclusive.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 10:17

381 views

7 February 2024

KZN disaster teams respond to areas affected by severe thunderstorm

Location: News

KZN disaster teams respond to areas affected by severe thunderstorm

The KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Department says provincial disaster management teams are responding to the trail of destruction caused by severe thunderstorms, accompanied by strong winds and lightning, in Dannhauser, Estcourt, Vryheid and Ulundi.

The department said three learners from Mandlamasha Primary School in Dannhauser (under Amajuba District) were struck by lightning on their way home from school on Monday.

One learner died on the spot, while the other two were rushed to hospital, where they are recovering.

KZN Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, has expressed condolences to the family of the departed learner and wished a speedy recovery to the two who were hospitalised.

“It is deeply sad that such a young person has left us in a tragic manner. We express our deepest condolences to the family, and we wish a speedy recovery to the other two learners that are in hospital.

“Our disaster team will reach out to the families,” Sithole-Moloi said.

Sithole-Moloi said a number of households in the three areas were severely impacted, as the strong wind tore roofs apart, causing damage to the valuables of many families.

She said public infrastructure was not spared from the disaster as power lines were destroyed by the strong winds, resulting in power outages in some areas.

“Our initial reports suggest that the most affected areas were Wembezi in Estcourt (under Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality), Nhlazatshe in Ulundi and Ozwathini and Mhlongo farm under Abaqulusi Local Municipality.

“It is deeply saddening that the inclement weather has caused yet another disaster in our province, as many municipalities are currently repairing homes and infrastructure after last month’s heavy rains. We have sent teams that are currently on the ground to assist affected families with immediate relief and to attend to the needs of those affected,” the MEC said.

Sithole-Moloi has instructed the disaster teams to work together with all affected municipalities, and the department has coordinated with other departments to come to the aid of affected families.

“Some families have lost their valuables, such as furniture and important documents and medication. We are engaging with the Department of Health, Home Affairs, and SASSA [South African Social Security Agency] to assist with the replacement of important documents and medication.

“The disaster team is providing immediate relief, as it continues with assessments to establish the full extent of the damage in all affected areas. More details will be confirmed at a later stage,” Sithole-Moloi said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 12:40

127 views

7 February 2024

PRASA Western Cape making strides

Location: News

PRASA Western Cape making strides

Acting regional manager of Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) in the Western Cape, Raymond Maseko, says the agency has done much work to recover the province’s network following a series of challenges.

Maseko was speaking on the sidelines of a blitz activation at the Cape Town train station ahead of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) to be held at the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday evening.

“We had a reset. Post-COVID when we started, there were only 14 stations in the Western Cape that had train access…out of 125 stations.

“Last year when we were here, the community of the central line did not have access to trains. As we speak today, we have access to trains up to Nyanga. There are only 11 stations in the Western Cape out of 125 that do not have train access.

“If you go currently to Phillipi station, there are people working there. If you go to Mandalay station, there are people working there and Kapteinsklip, there are people working there. We are on the cusp of actually recovering the Western Cape network in its entirety,” he said.

Maseko highlighted that despite all the progress made, criminality – specifically copper cable theft – is hampering the agency’s work.

“In South Africa, we have a scourge of cable theft. This is affecting our business [seriously]. Most of the lines that are not available today [is due to] the copper theft that has happened. This morning, we had cable theft at Tygerberg and this… affected the entire system from after 3am. We were only [set] to recover it moments ago. The impact is so severe.

“We need South Africans to partner with us. There is nothing like 'government infrastructure'. In essence, there is just South African infrastructure because all of our taxes are what is creating this infrastructure. It is for South Africans to actually protect the infrastructure. You see something, say something. Do not just keep quiet,” he said.

Maseko said the agency has also completed building student accommodation that will accommodate thousands of students in the city.

“There is student accommodation that we started building just before lockdown… up until now... [some] 3 200 beds. There are already 1 500 students enjoying the benefits that we have put up. The idea from PRASA is densification and its also transport-orientated development.

“That means that we are asking the cities - we are asking that any development that happens - make it around transport hubs. Think about what we have done here. Students from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology can be here... that is somewhere around Belville, and UCT that is around town, they can always live here.

“They get off here, get into a train, get off at the nearest station… and then they go off into their places of higher institutions,” Maseko said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 10:48

357 views

7 February 2024

SA rallies behind Bafana Bafana

Location: News

SA rallies behind Bafana Bafana

The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, has encouraged South Africans to get behind Bafana Bafana as they take on Nigeria in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-finals on Wednesday.

Bafana Bafana have captured the hearts of South Africans and football fans in their performances at AFCON, reaching their first semi-final in the competition in 24 years.

“Bafana Bafana have inspired many at the 34th AFCON. The team has risen from past disappointments to display the winning trajectory being exhibited by South African sport, arts and culture on international platforms.

“They have broken records by keeping four clean sheets in the tournament. The heroics of the Bafana Bafana players during the tournament, including the feats of captain Ronwen Williams in the quarterfinals, will live long in the memories of football supporters,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

Kodwa will be travelling to Cote d’Ivoire to support the team in the semi-final clash.

“Spain and Argentina lost their opening games in the 2010 and 2022 FIFA World Cup, respectively, before winning those tournaments. I believe Bafana Bafana have that champion spirit to replicate this by going the whole way and bringing the AFCON title home.

“I encourage South Africans from all walks of life to rally together and get behind Bafana Bafana, who have been excellent ambassadors for South Africa and have proudly raised the country’s flag high,” the Minister said.

He said it has been great to see South Africans wearing their Bafana Bafana jerseys, and to see the supporters and journalists who have been proudly behind the team in Cote d’Ivoire.

“Let us unite in our support for Bafana Bafana. Let us gather in our homes and in public spaces to show our support to this team, which has done the nation so proud at AFCON. As proud South Africans, let us once again show the power of sport to unite people from all walks of life,” Kodwa said.

The match kicks off at 19:00. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 11:06

105 views

7 February 2024

Eskom reduces load shedding to Stage 1

Location: News

Eskom reduces load shedding to Stage 1

Eskom has announced that it will reduce load shedding to Stage 1 on Wednesday at 10am.

The power utility attributed the drop in load shedding stages to sufficient emergency reserves.

“Due to sufficient emergency reserves and a slight increase in available generation capacity, resulting from the return to service of two units, load shedding will be reduced to Stage 1 from 10am today until 2pm. Thereafter, Stage 2 load shedding will be implemented from 2pm until further notice,” Eskom said in a statement on Wednesday.

Eskom said it will closely monitor the power system and communicate further should it be required. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 02/07/2024 - 09:45

97 views

6 February 2024

Public advised of road closures ahead of SONA 2024

Location: News

Public advised of road closures ahead of SONA 2024

With the 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA) taking place on Thursday, the City of Cape Town has advised the public of numerous road closures.

“Road closures in the Central Business District will be in effect to assist with traffic flow and accommodate the State of the Nation Address at the City Hall. The road closures will affect the normal flow of traffic in and around the City Bowl,” the City said on Monday.

SONA is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 8 February at 7pm at the Cape Town City Hall. This will be the last SONA for the sixth administration.

SONA is a joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament – the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces and is called by the President in terms of Section 42(5) of the Constitution.

It brings together the three arms of the State under one roof.

“Some road closures will be in place until 15 February 2024. Road users are requested to acquaint themselves with the closures and to plan their routes accordingly,” the City said.

A list of road closures can be accessed here:

https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre%20Assets/SONA%20Opening%20of%20Parliament%202024-02-01%20TMP__Communication.pdf

Motorists should also note that there will be restricted parking in some areas. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 02/06/2024 - 12:16

1376 views

6 February 2024

Prof Tladi sworn in as SA’s first permanent ICJ judge

Location: News

Prof Tladi sworn in as SA's first permanent ICJ judge

Professor Dire Tladi has been sworn in as the first-ever South African judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The ICJ held a public sitting on Tuesday morning, where Tladi and three other Excellencies were officially sworn in after being elected by the United Nations General Assembly and Security Council on 9 November 2023.

The other new members of the court include Bogdan-Lucian Aurescu from Romania, Sarah Hull Cleveland from the United States and Juan Manuel Gómez Robledo Verduzco from Mexico

During the sitting, the four judges each solemnly declared Article 20 of the Statute of the Court.

The declaration, according to the ICJ, stipulates that members shall, before taking up their duties, make a solemn declaration in open court that they will exercise their powers impartially and conscientiously.

The new members’ nine-year terms of office will begin on the same day.

Last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa described Tladi’s election as an outstanding personal achievement that the nation shares with great pride.

“We appreciate the confidence expressed by the United Nations in Prof Tladi’s capabilities. He becomes the newest member of a fraternity of South Africans globally who are in positions of service to the international community and making important contributions to the better world we seek to build.

“We wish Prof Tladi well as he prepares to contribute to the Court and its jurisprudence from the Palace of Peace in The Hague, Netherlands,” the President said then.

The ICJ is the principal judicial organ of the UN and one of the six principal bodies of the intergovernmental organisation.

The court’s role is to settle, per international law, legal disputes submitted to it by states and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorised UN organs and specialised agencies.

South Africans have become familiar with the top UN court after the country approached it to garner not only a ceasefire of Israel’s military barrage of Palestine but also to ask the court to find the Israeli government guilty of committing acts of genocide.

The ICJ found that it was “plausible” that Israel committed acts which violated the Genocide Convention.

The court in The Hague ordered Israel to, amongst 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 Professor is a leading international law scholar whose accomplishments span different areas of the field, including academic, government service, diplomatic and practice.

On his appointment as a judge of the ICJ, he was the University of Pretoria professor of international law and Future Africa's Research Chair in Global Equity in Africa.

Speaking to the university last year, he said he was experiencing a mix of different emotions.

“I am filled with mixed emotions – excitement, elation and a touch of nervousness. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude because so many people played a role in this journey.

“The entire experience has been humbling, especially navigating through the challenges of an intense campaign, and juggling various responsibilities over the past few months. The announcement and the tense process have undoubtedly taken a toll, but I'm absolutely ecstatic and profoundly humbled by the experience,” the Professor added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 02/06/2024 - 13:35

537 views

6 February 2024

Progress in the nation’s recovery and rebuilding documented in summary five-year review

Location: News

Progress in the nation’s recovery and rebuilding documented in summary five-year review

The Presidency has released a five-year review publication that documents the strides made in South Africa’s recovery and reconstruction since 2019, delving into the transformative initiatives undertaken by the Sixth Administration, specifically targeting the pressing challenges confronting the nation.

'Leave No One Behind 2024 – A Five-Year Review', which was released on Tuesday, outlines in summary form the progress made in growing the economy and jobs; fighting corruption; tackling poverty; developing human capital; providing quality health care for all; fighting crime, violence and instability; making communities safer, and investing in infrastructure.

From the outset, the sixth administration has worked to address the immediate challenges facing South Africans and put in place the foundations for sustainable, inclusive growth and job creation into the future.

“Progress in South Africa’s recovery and rebuilding since 2019 has been documented in a new Presidency publication on the impact of the Sixth Administration’s focus on addressing the immediate challenges facing South Africa and putting in place the foundations for better lives and sustainable growth into the future.

“The publication is an exercise in accountability and draws attention to the collective efforts of government and social partners to improve conditions in the country under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa,” Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said in a statement.

The information resource can be accessed on www.stateofthenation.gov.za and http://bit.ly/4blAA93. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 02/06/2024 - 13:44

424 views

6 February 2024

President Ramaphosa engages youth ahead of SONA

Location: News

President Ramaphosa engages youth ahead of SONA

President Cyril Ramaphosa has held a pre-State of the Nation Address (SONA) engagement with young people at the Belhar Sports Complex in Cape Town.

The engagement was aimed at taking stock – together with the youth – of the past three years since the commencement of the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES) and Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI).

The two programmes have created more than 1.7 million job opportunities and provided livelihood support, predominantly benefiting young people.

At the engagement on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa told the youth that the sixth administration has, since it took office, made a decision to “focus on young people" because of the youth unemployment challenge that South Africa faces.

"We are going to craft many programmes and as many as we can. We did so because we wanted to give young people an opportunity to start off with their lives.

“Sitting here, I am rather pleased that we’ve set up this Youth Employment Service,where we’ve said to the private sector: take young people and give them a life chance opportunity by getting them to learn on the job. But we went further and we set up the PYEI, which has opened up enormous opportunities,” he said.

Reflecting on the past 30 years of democracy and how the lives of young people are impacted by this, the President said that since the end of apartheid, government has opened the doors of learning for all school going children, and assisted more than a million older youth in attaining higher education.

“When apartheid ended, we decided that we are going to open the doors of learning for young people to go into learning institutions by their millions and having done so, we opened up no-fee schools… We decided that we are going to feed young people at school. We have the biggest feeding programme on the whole continent, feeding nine million children everyday for five days of the week.

“We focused on higher education, [where]... today NSFAS [National Student Financial Aid Scheme] supports 1.2 million young people. I know of no country on the African continent that does so,” he said.

President Ramaphosa noted that by putting more youth through higher education, more effort needs to be put into creating jobs for those who graduate.

“This is what led to the conceptualisation of all these [employment] programmes. We rely on the private sector to create jobs but they are not creating jobs fast enough so government had to step in to create those job opportunities.

“The vision is to make sure that we prepare the future of South Africa through educating, through skilling and then creating job opportunities for these young people,” he said.

The President assured the youth that government will not stop in its efforts to ensure that the youth are skilled and employed.

“We never had those opportunities but the democratic government has made sure that we open all these opportunities and they are there for you to take…and to make a good start in your own lives.

“But we are going to massify. I want to see millions of young people becoming involved in various opportunities and getting into jobs. Our commitment to you, as young people, is irrevocable, it is permanent, it is there committed like no other,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 02/06/2024 - 19:18

118 views

6 February 2024

Prices of petrol and diesel to depart up from Wednesday

Location: News

Prices of petrol and diesel to go up from Wednesday

Mineral Resources and Energy Minister, Gwede Mantashe, has announced the adjustment of fuel prices for February 2024, which shows a hike in both petrol and diesel prices.

The price adjustments will come into effect from Wednesday, 7 February 2023.

Consumers will now pay 75c more for a litre of unleaded petrol of both grades (93 and 95), while the wholesale price of diesel will go up by between 70c and 73c.

The wholesale price of illuminating paraffin will be increased by 53c a litre and the maximum retail price for LP gas is going up by 37c per kg.

Reasons given for the country’s adjusted prices include international and local factors.

“International factors include the fact that South Africa imports both crude oil and finished products at a price set at the international level, including importation costs, for example, shipping costs,” the department explained.

The main reasons for the fuel price adjustments, according to the department, are due to the cost of the average Brent Crude oil, which increased from US $ 77.35 to US $ 82.03 in the past month.

The department also stated that the higher oil prices are attributed to the impact of the geopolitical risk or attacks on oil cargoes in the Middle East, particularly the Red Sea.

“This has caused an increase in shipping rates as ships are rerouted from the Middle East to Europe, using the longer and more expensive route around Africa since they cannot import from Russia.”

In addition, the cold weather has also affected production in the United States, which has recently been part of the output used to offset the production cuts by a larger group of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC+).

“This resulted in more than expected inventory draws.”

Meanwhile, the average international product prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin increased in line with the higher crude oil prices, while the rand/US dollar exchange rate played a role.

“The cumulative slate balance on petrol and diesel at the end of December 2023 had a positive balance of R1.1 million.

“Therefore, there will be no slate levy implemented in the price structures of petrol and diesel with effect from the 7th of February 2024.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 02/06/2024 - 14:42

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6 February 2024

Over one million novel voters added to the voters’ roll

Location: News

Over one million new voters added to the voters’ roll

The Electoral Commission says 1.2 million new voters have been added to the voters’ roll since November 2023, as the country prepares for this year’s National and Provincial Elections.

Briefing the media on the outcomes of the final voter registration weekend on Tuesday, Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo, said the two registration weekends have given the country a growth of 1.2 million citizens on the voters’ roll.

“Following these two registration drives, the voters’ roll now stands at 27.4 million. Regarding the past registration weekend, over 2 million (2 060 754) citizens interacted with the commission by either visiting the 23 303 voting stations or using the online voter registration portal.

“The interactions ranged from applying for registration as new voters or updating the registration details in the case of those already registered. Of the 2 million transactions recorded this past weekend, 457 384 or 22% were new entrants on the voters’ roll,” Mamabolo said.

Of the new registrations, 77% are young people under the age of 29 entering the voters’ roll for the first time. New registrations for young people stands at 352 524.

Mamabolo said a total of 1 606 370 or 88% voters inspected and updated their registration details, and this is in line with the message that a voter must register and vote in the voting district where they reside, unless they notify the commission of an intention to vote elsewhere.

A total of 1 818 379 applications were also captured at the voting stations, while 240 789 were recorded online.

KZN records highest number registrations

Mamabolo said KwaZulu-Natal recorded the highest number of registrations with 2 510 670 transactions, followed by Gauteng which recorded 452 596, while the Eastern Cape came third with 305 460 transactions recorded.

KwaZulu-Natal also recorded the highest number of young people registered at 103 647 followed by Gauteng at 82 168, and the Eastern Cape at 43 673.

The gender of the new registrations was evenly split with female registrations accounting for 233 364, which is 51%, while the male new registrations account for 224 020, which is 49%.

Mamabolo noted that Gauteng remains the province with the biggest voting population at 6.4 million voters, followed by KwaZulu-Natal at 5.7 million, then the Eastern Cape at 3.4 million voters.

“The age category 20-29 at 4.3 million now represents 48% measured against the voting age population. The online registration portal has greater usage in the province of Gauteng at 99 522, followed by KwaZulu-Natal at 43 240 and the Western Cape at 33 822.

“Young persons under the age of 29 account for 47% usage of the online registration portal. Females are more likely to use the online portal more than males do at 58% or 139 313. With two registration weekends under its belt, the commission now turns its focus on ramping up preparations for the National and Provincial Elections 2024,” Mamabolo said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 02/06/2024 - 14:53

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