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Gauteng Health commends police’s swift response in hijacked State vehicle case

Location: News

Gauteng Health commends police's swift response in hijacked State vehicle case

The Gauteng Department of Health has commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) for its swift response following a State vehicle hijacking incident in Mamelodi.

The incident took place on Wednesday morning when the Ward-Based Primary Healthcare Outreach Team (WBPHCOT) from the Stanza Bopape Community Health Centre was conducting regular household visits at Section 14 in Mamelodi. It is then when the State vehicle was hijacked at gunpoint.

According to the department, the officials were approached by two perpetrators who hijacked the State vehicle and robbed them of their belongings, including cell phones and cash.

Department spokesperson Motalatale Modiba said the attack happened at a time when the department was strengthening its outreach programme to communities in townships, informal settlements and hostels (TISH), which is meant to improve access to health services to previously disadvantaged areas.

“To push back on attacks on healthcare workers requires a collective effort where communities work closely with law enforcement agencies, given that the attacks are taking place in the very communities where we are trying to expand services to,” Modiba said.

Modiba said the police managed to recover the white VW Polo sedan, which had already been fitted with fake number plates at Extension 11 in Mamelodi, later in the day. 

“The department has since opened a case of robbery and theft at Mamelodi East Police Station. Counselling has been arranged for the affected staff members.”

The department has also strongly condemned the attacks on staff and called on society to take a stand against such crimes, warning this has a dire impact on sustaining health services in communities. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 01/26/2024 - 13:09

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Labour takes services closer to Southern Cape communities

Location: News

Labour takes services closer to Southern Cape communities

The Department of Employment and Labour in the Western Cape will next week embark on a series of service delivery activities in the Southern Cape as a build-up towards a Jobs Fair to be held in George next month.

The department said among the services to be provided during next week’s activities include the processing of Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) applications, claims assessment, resolving UIF inquiries, and the processing of occupational injuries and diseases claims and inquiries.  

“Also on offer will be the Public Employment Services (PES), where job-seekers will be afforded, amongst other services, an opportunity to register their CVs on the Employment System of South Africa (ESSA) database, through which they can be matched with prospective recruiters,” the department said.

Employer breakfast session and Jobs Fair

Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi will host employers and engage with aspirant workers at an employer breakfast session and Jobs Fair to be held in George from 5 - 6 February 2023. 

An initiative championed by the PES branch, the Jobs Fair seeks to create opportunities for work-seekers and provide a platform to interact with prospective employers.

The two-day event will commence with the employer breakfast session, where Nxesi will lead discussions on labour market issues and address unemployment in the province. 

“Through the use of innovative solutions, the department continues to make strides in addressing the crippling high unemployment rate,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 01/26/2024 - 14:20

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President welcomes ICJ ruling

Location: News

President welcomes ICJ ruling

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the Gaza genocide case against Israel.  

This comes after the United Nations (UN) top court ordered Israel to take steps to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza and do more to help Palestinian civilians, as Israel continues to wage war against Hamas militants. 

In a landmark judgment, the ICJ determined that it was “plausible” that Israel has committed acts that violate the Genocide Convention. 

“We have called Israel’s attacks on Gaza genocidal acts; acts for which Israel should and must be held accountable. Today the International Court of Justice has vindicated us,” President Ramaphosa said on Friday.

The country’s First Citizen was speaking to the nation in a televised address following the landmark ruling by the ICJ.

The war which began in October last year has already claimed more than 25 000 lives in Gaza, of which more than 16 000 of the dead are women and children.  

The President cited the UN Children’s Fund, which labelled Gaza as a “graveyard for thousands of children”. 

It is for this reason the President believes today’s judgment marks an important first step in the quest to secure justice for the people of Gaza.  

The President said South Africa stands on the side of freedom and justice for all. 

“Thirty years ago, following our first democratic elections, President Nelson Mandela declared, ‘Let there be justice for all. Let there be peace for all. Never, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another’.”

South Africa approached the ICJ in December last year, under the Genocide Convention, for alleged attacks committed by Israel in Gaza.   

In its application, South Africa pleaded with the court to indicate provisional measures to “protect against further severe and irreparable harm to the rights of the Palestinian people under the Genocide Convention”.

The country also requested the ICJ to ensure Israel does not engage in genocide. 

Handing down the court’s unanimous decision, ICJ Judge President Joan Donoghue said it was necessary pending its final decision to indicate certain measures to protect the rights claimed by South Africa. 

Donoghue also stated that Israel must per its obligations under the Genocide Convention take all measures within its power to prevent the commission of all acts within the scope of Article II of the Convention. 

Acts of genocide named in the convention include the killing members of the group; causing serious bodily or mental harm to the members of the group; deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; and imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group.

“We firmly believe that following this judgment there should now be a more concerted effort towards a ceasefire and negotiations should commence on a permanent two-state solution, to enable Israel and Palestine to live side by side as independent states,” said the President. 

President Ramaphosa thanked the international community who have supported the country’s application and those who declared their intention to be part of the application. 

“We will not waiver in our commitment to the Palestinian people and their quest for self-determination. Our own painful history obliges us to do no less.” 

He also thanked the World Court for holding those guilty of genocide accountable and thanked the lawyers and the Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation and Justice and Correctional Services. 

“It is our earnest hope and wish that this court order paves the way for an end to this crisis, for an end to the terrible loss of life and hardship, and for the crucial first steps to be taken towards reconciliation and a just, lasting peace.”

The transcript of proceedings can be accessed at https://www.icj-cij.org/sites/default/files/case-related/192/192-20240126-ord-01-00-en.pdf. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 01/26/2024 - 18:31

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SA citizens in foreign countries urged to register to vote

Location: News

SA citizens in foreign countries urged to register to vote

Over 18 469 South African citizens living in 101 countries around the world have started registering to vote using the Electoral Commission’s newly launched online registration portal system.

“The Electoral Commission has enabled an online registration facility for the first time to allow South Africans outside the country to easily register for the 2024 National Elections,” Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the Electoral Commission Sy Mamabolo said.

Addressing the media in Pretoria on Thursday, Mamabolo said the commission hoped that the introduction of an online registration system will attract citizens from abroad.

Citizens living abroad must register as voters either online or in person at their nearest South African mission. South African high commissions, embassies and consulates will be open during working hours.

“Eligible voters are encouraged to check with their nearest mission on the registration dates and times. Registration requires a South African identity document as well as a South African passport.   

“A special two-day voter registration event for South African citizens abroad will take place between 26 and 28 January 2024, depending on the configuration of weekend days.

“In countries where Friday and Saturday are weekends, the two special days designated will be Friday 26 January, and Saturday 27 January 2024,” Mamabolo said.

The countries with the most people registering online include the United Kingdom (5938), the Netherlands (1844), Germany (746), the United States (821), Ireland (675), United Arab Emirates (1068), China (515), Australia (588), New Zealand (314), Cuba (293), Portugal (284) and Belgium (280).

In the African continent, South Africans have begun to register in 28 countries, including Mauritius (316), Lesotho (224) Namibia (148), Botswana (170), Zambia (96), Zimbabwe (77), Kenya (73), Ghana (45) and Tanzania (40).

A full list of South Africa’s missions is available on the website of DIRCO at https://www.dirco.gov.za/webmissions/index.html.

The commission advised South Africans who are already registered to vote – either on the national or international segment of the voters’ roll - to check their registration status and to update their voters’ roll address if they intend to vote abroad in the 2024 National Elections.

Mamabolo said the commission has put in place all necessary measures to ensure that no one is left behind and that all citizens vote in the 2024 National Election.

“The upcoming 2024 National Elections offer an important opportunity for all South Africans to have their voices heard, regardless of geographic location,” he said.

The commission pleaded with businesses and organisations around the world to encourage their South African employees to register during this registration weekend. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 01/26/2024 - 09:03

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167 scholar drivers held for traffic violations

Location: News

167 scholar drivers held for traffic violations

Hundreds of vehicles have been impounded and scores of drivers arrested as traffic authorities intensified their national crackdown on unroadworthy vehicles transporting learners to school.

These arrests are part of the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) back-to-school campaign, which started when schools re-opened this month. The campaign has so far resulted in 37 548 vehicles stopped and check in 484 law enforcement operations in different provinces. 

The provinces with the highest number of vehicles stopped and checked are KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Gauteng.

“A total of 167 drivers were arrested for, among others, drunken driving, driving while having no driving licence and operating a public transport vehicle in violation of operating permit regulations.

“The campaign has highlighted that many scholar transport drivers were driving without fastening seatbelts, some do not have professional drivers' permits, their vehicles were not licensed, while other vehicles had defects such as cracked windscreens, smooth tyres and faulty brakes.

“More than 6 240 were given fines for these vehicles, while 965 vehicles were impounded and 291 were suspended from operating,” the RTMC said on Thursday.

The RTMC has maintained that the safety of children remains priority and law enforcement authorities will remain vigilant throughout the year to deal with non-compliant operators.

However, parents also have a responsibility to ensure that the transport operators they choose are fit for purpose and licensed to transport their children safely to school.

Meanwhile, the RTMC has warned members of the public about a fake traffic officer learnership recruitment circulating on various social media platforms.

“The RTMC is currently not recruiting any traffic officer learners for the 2024 financial year. When positions become available, the corporation will advertise its traffic officer learnership posts through reputable online platforms, which include our website, mainstream media and our social media platforms.

“As a public institution, we do not charge applicants for any employment opportunities within the organisation. Members of the public are warned not to fall prey to any scams doing rounds online.

“We urge the public to verify the legitimacy of any recruitment drive purported to be from the RTMC by contacting our Human Capital Division on 012 999 5200. Alternatively, visit our website: www.rtmc.co.za,” the corporation said.

The RTMC said any scams seeking to take advantage of desperate unemployed youth should be reported to law enforcement agencies immediately. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 01/26/2024 - 09:27

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Department awards bursaries to hardworking matriculants

Location: News

Department awards bursaries to hardworking matriculants

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala has hailed teachers and guardians as true heroes and heroines and thanked them for encouraging, motivating and guiding learners during the 2023 matric examination.

“To the bursary awardees, you are the crown in the jewel; and today we sing your praises for demonstrating that paying attention and putting in effort pays,” Zikalala said on Thursday, during a ceremony to award bursaries to 100 learners from the Class of 2023 who have enrolled to study various built environment courses at universities across the country.

Zikalala congratulated the learners for being worthy recipients of the prestigious bursaries from the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.

He said the young people who are receiving the bursaries have honoured the sacrifices of the youth of 1976 who protested against an inferior Bantu Education that sought to turn education for the black majority into an instrument of racial subjugation and guarantor for the supply of cheap black labour.

“The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) plays a critical role in delivering essential services. To do so effectively, it must have a highly skilled and competent workforce.

“This year is the 10th year that the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has been offering these bursaries to address the challenges of the skills pipeline and transformation in the Built Environment.

“Our university bursary scheme is one of the ways through which as a department, we respond to the country’s occupation skills that are in high demand as gazetted by the Department of Higher Education and Training,” the Minister said.

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Bursary Scheme supports undergraduate study areas like: Construction Project Management, Occupational Health and Safety, Quantity Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Property Studies, Real Estate, Urban Design and Regional Planning, Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Structural, Chemical), Interior Design, Actuarial Science, Horticulture, Geographic Information Science (GISc) and Maritime Studies.

The Council for the Built Environment (CBE) has lamented the slow pace of transformation in the built environment which is compounded by the challenge of aging professionals who are leaving the sector.

“One of our programmes to address these challenges and in contributing to the skills of the future in our sector is the department’s schools programme and the university bursary scheme programme.

“We are pleased to report that our valued bursary beneficiaries are supported financially throughout their tertiary studies until graduation.

“Upon completion of studies, bursary holders join the department’s internship programme wherein they gain relevant technical experience for a duration of 24 months in line with their contractual obligation to the department and in accordance to the DPSA regulated internship period,” Zikalala said.

The estimated budget per student is R177 500. This amount varies based on the institution and study programme. The department has allocated budget of R17 800 000 for the 2024 academic year new intake.     

The bursary covers all university costs including tuition fees, accommodation, meals, textbooks, projects, excursions and a monthly allowance. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 01/26/2024 - 09:43

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Call for balance in investments for road and rail infrastructure

Location: News

Call for balance in investments for road and rail infrastructure

With South Africa deepening its efforts towards shifting freight from road to rail, the Department of Transport (DOT) Freight Logistics Specialist, Mihlali Gqada, says there needs to be a balance in investments that are made in rail and road infrastructure.

Addressing the colloquium on the Freight Road to Rail Migration Plan (FRRMP), Gqada said the amount of rail infrastructure investment pales in comparison to road.

According to National Treasury and the Minister of Transport’s Budget Vote Speech (2023/24), the allocation for roads (transfers and subsidies) is R42.4 billion, and for 2024/25, the estimate is R42.4 billion. This figure excludes the equitable share grant that provinces and municipalities get for infrastructure development.

“Rail infrastructure investment is limited to the allocation for the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) from the DOT (+/-R7 billion), whilst freight rail relies on Transnet investment and competes with Ports and Pipelines. It is therefore imperative that a balance in investment be fostered so that the shift can be realised.

“Historically, public sector investment has largely been skewed towards road infrastructure investments, and going forward, there is a need to leverage a wide range of public and private investment tools to finance the construction and operation of rail freight infrastructure.

“The national freight transportation system requires investment to maintain performance at high levels, upon which the country's economic growth depends,” Gqada said on Thursday in Pretoria.

She said private sector and private investments must find expression in the railway sector.

“These investments must be in the form of infrastructure and operations as Transnet would not be in a position to meet all the investment required to get the railways competitive and responsive to the country's growth needs and demand.

“Historically the public and private sectors have collaborated clearly, and both played divided roles in relation to freight transport whereby the public sector has built, owned, and operated transport infrastructure on behalf of government, predominantly railways and highways. Furthermore, the private sector has used that infrastructure to conduct freight operations.

“This division of roles provides opportunities for government to leverage private sector efficiencies and expertise in the construction and operation of freight infrastructure,” Gqada said.

She said South Africa holds immense potential to become the gateway to the African market, boasting a well-developed network of ports and a robust logistics infrastructure.

“The country's transportation system offers several advantages compared to other African nations. Despite its potential, South Africa's freight transport system faces significant challenges in meeting the growing demand for freight movement, especially on rail. These challenges stem from operational and infrastructure deficiencies in the road, rail and port sectors, which hinder the competitiveness of the South African economy,” Gqada said.

She said poor rail performance has rendered the country unable to fully participate in the recent commodity boom.

As the country tries to deal with the lack of investment in rail, Gqada said it must not stop investment in road infrastructure, as this is currently the backbone of South Africa's trade success.

“We, however, need to be cautious of the role that the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) is being given by several provinces to manage their road network as this may overburden SANRAL.

“This gradual migration of provincial networks onto the portfolio of SANRAL must be managed very well and must not undermine the effectiveness of SANRAL in infrastructure development and maintenance,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za 

nosihle
Thu, 01/25/2024 - 13:30

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Health dept receives multimillion-rand equipment from German Development Bank

Location: News

Health dept receives multimillion-rand equipment from German Development Bank

Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, has welcomed the multimillion-rand donation of mobile health clinics from the German Development Bank (KfW) in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. 

The Minister said the donation supports efforts by the South African government to strengthen the public health system.

“Today is one of the most exciting days for the National Department of Health and the provincial departments as we formally acknowledge the support we received from the German government, through the German Development Bank and the DG Murray Trust. 

“The governments of Germany and South Africa have enjoyed a very fruitful relationship across several departments for a while now,” he said on Thursday. 

Phaahla was speaking at the official hand over of the equipment at the Town Hill Hospital. 

The Minister was joined by the German Ambassador to South Africa, Andreas Peschke, Deputy Health Minister Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Health, Nomagugu Simelane, leaders from local government and DG Murray Trust.

The donated assets, valued at R500 million, include specialised vaccine fridges, vaccine carriers, temperature monitoring devices, notebooks, tablets and mobile health clinics.

Phaahla said the 46 mobile clinics have contributed to changing people’s lives and that they have reached 1.9 million individuals with direct interpersonal interactions. 

“I will work with the MECs to sustain and maintain these assets when the funding ends in September this year.”

Phaahla said the mobile units operate in four provinces including Gauteng, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, and are operated by professional nurses, communicators and local mobilisers supported by the #KeReady youthful doctors. 

“These units are serving as the bedrock of our campaign to get closer to the youth community and highlight the challenges that face youth life,” said the Minister.

“We consider the Ambassador and his team as friends; friends who did not abandon us at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but stayed with us and provided support for specific vulnerable communities in the informal settlements.

“We thank you for the precise, strategic and tailored programmes you brought into our primary healthcare ecosystem,” he said. 

He told the attendees that today’s gathering was not just a celebration but an occasion to showcase the countries’ bilateral relationship and to demonstrate that their relationship was beneficial to both nations. 

“Our vision and objectives for the health sector have been expressed in many documents and on many other platforms.”

The Universal Health Access through the National Health Insurance (NHI), he said, was a vision South Africa strives towards, working with the private sector. 

“We are committed to this vision and the outcomes we envisage despite the huge setback due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

He noted German’s specific targeted programmes, which are evidence-based and believes that will have an impact. 

The focus includes children who are reached through the Early Childhood Development (ECD) programme, young people in hard-to-reach areas, community-led social mobilisation campaigns, strong monitoring and evaluation systems and cost-effective approaches. 

“Ambassador, we recognise that you give our people a hand to uplift them out of poverty, instead of once-off hand-outs which are not sustainable," said Phaahla.

He acknowledged the German government for its support during the COVID-19 response.

Phaahla expressed his gratitude for German’s forward-thinking approach, which he described as “precise and impactful”. 

“We will scale it up as we move forward and apply lessons learned to our programmes.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 01/25/2024 - 14:13

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Township and village tourism acquire a lot to offer

Location: News

Township and village tourism have a lot to offer

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says township and village tourism have much to offer in terms of boosting the economy.

“I firmly believe that township and village tourism has so much to offer and so much untapped potential and we must place more focus on this area to showcase our hidden gems and the true magic of our villages and townships,” de Lille said.

Addressing the inaugural Township and Village Tourism Expo hosted by the SA Township and Village Tourism Organisation (SATOVITO) at the Cradle of Humankind, in Morapeng on Thursday, de Lille said the expo aims to shine a light on tourism products in villages and townships where people from disadvantaged backgrounds are breaking through barriers to take their claim in the tourism sector.

“I have found only warm, kind and committed people in tourism in every part of this country and I look forward to exploring even more hidden gems this year and pushing harder with all partners to take the entire tourism sector to the next level,” De Lille said.

De Lille commended the organisers of expo for their objective to foster strong community engagement by involving local residents, community leaders, and stakeholders in the planning and execution of the expo.

“Promoting township and village tourism is an integral part of diversifying our tourism offerings so that we can grow the economy, the sector and the number of jobs created by this sector.

“I am therefore pleased that the South African National Convention Bureau has provided financial support to this expo and that SA Tourism has also supported it through marketing it at global events such as World Travel Market London.

“I have often said that we must place more on emphasising township and village tourism, especially in the annual Sho’t Left campaign and later today there will be workshop on this annual campaign by SA Tourism,” the Minister said.

De Lille said her department wanted to help the organisers to achieve their vision to develop townships and villages into smart residential and business hubs that foster job creation, social cohesion and market indigenous tourism experiences.

“We are your partner to transform the tourism industry and expand the value chain to be more inclusive and attract tourism investment to townships and villages.

“We need to showcase our culture, history, indigenous cultures and people to visitors from all over the world because I am certain that those are the experiences that will leave them with memories they will treasure forever and stories that will captivate them for years to come.

“We need to do better at marketing our history and cultures and show more people places like what is known as “Nobel Street” where we showcase Vilikazi Street in Soweto as being the homes of two Nobel Peace Laureates, our dear Tata Madiba and Archbishop Desmond Tutu,” de Lille said.

De Lille said history has helped transform the area around Vilikazi Street into a thriving business community but there are many more spaces and places like these all over South Africa which can be showcased.

The Tourism Incentive Programme is a package of support programmes aimed at stimulating the growth, development and transformation of the South African Tourism sector.

“Through these incentives, the department aims to transform and achieve accelerated growth in the tourism sector. This in turn contributes to the achievement of the department’s objectives to stimulate enterprise growth, job creation, revenue growth and an enhanced visitor experience,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 01/25/2024 - 12:49

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Saudi Arabia market presents enormous growth opportunities for SA

Location: News

Saudi Arabia market presents enormous growth opportunities for SA

The South African - Saudi Arabia Business Council has committed to boosting trade as part of efforts to grow the economies of both countries.

In 2023, South Africa's exports to Saudi Arabia increased to R7.3 billion from R6.6 billion in 2022, while imports from Saudi Arabia decreased to R54.6 billion in 2023 from R73.6 billion in 2022.

The exported goods include agricultural products, motor vehicles, and basic chemicals, whereas the import items mainly consisted of refined petroleum and related products and crude oil.

Speaking at a press briefing in honour of the visiting Saudi business delegation, Co-Chair of the South African–Saudi Arabia Business Council, Stavros Nicolaou, underscored the need to increase trade and investment.

“From my vantage point, the Saudi Arabia market presents enormous growth opportunities for South African companies looking to expand their businesses in the gulf region as shown by local companies that are slowly establishing a presence in that region,” Nicolaou said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition Ebrahim Patel have been leading ongoing engagements between South Africa and Saudi Arabia - which have since resulted in local businesses finding a foothold in the vast Saudi Arabia market.

Also speaking at the same media briefing, Dr Hisham Al Amoudi, Vice-Chairman of the Saudi–South Africa Business Council, reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to investing in South Africa.

Al Amoudi said the South Africa and Saudi Arabia Joint Economic Commission and the Business Council was a good platform to further progress and boost inward investments between the two respective countries. 

He said Saudi Arabia is committed to increasing investment across various sectors in South Africa.

"We are committed to increasing investments for mutual benefits and supporting South Africa’s economic growth. Our current investments contribute to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product,” Al Amoudi said.

The visit by the Saudi business delegation aims to not only strengthen current trade relations but also to explore opportunities for South African companies to increase market access with products that have high export potential to Saudi Arabia.

These products include motor vehicles for the transport of persons, fruits, mineral resources, chemicals, machinery and electrical equipment.

Additionally, the Saudi delegation seeks to boost investment from Saudi Arabia in sectors beyond South Africa’s renewable energy industry. Currently, Saudi is the largest investor in South Africa's local renewable energy sector and ACWA Power has a leading role in this area.

Overall, it is estimated that Saudi investment into South Africa amounts to $1.62 billion.

The Business Council focuses on five main workstreams - energy and renewable energy, tourism, hospitality and entertainment, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, mining and commodities, and food and agro-processing. These areas aim to utilise investment capital from Saudi Arabia while tapping into the opportunities that South Africa offers in these sectors. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 01/25/2024 - 08:54

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Comments sought on Water Acts amendments

Location: News

Comments sought on Water Acts amendments

The Department of Water and Sanitation will next week kick-start a series of public consultations on the amendment of the National Water Act and Water Services Act across the country.

The two legislations were published in the Government Gazette on 17 November 2023 and members of the public were invited to submit written comments on the draft amendment bills within 60 days from the date of publication.

The department said the objective of the consultations is to garner comments from the public and stakeholders, which are necessary to bring about legislation that will benefit the current and future generation of the country by ensuring equitable water allocation for all, and optimise access and use of water and sanitation.

“The amendments of the two legislations will strengthen the role of the department as a regulator of the water and sanitation sector, thus, decisively address socio economic challenges facing the country. 

“Furthermore, this will ensure that the country’s water resources are managed, protected, used, and conserved, while promoting equity and redressing past imbalances. The redress of past imbalances will ensure that all citizens of the country have access to water,” the department said.

The amendments of the National Water Act are mainly aimed at strengthening the protection and conservation of water resources, including strategic water source areas; ability of the department to consider and decide on water use applications timeously; and the ability of the department to improve equity in water use allocation.

They are also aimed at strengthening the ability of the department to phase out previous water entitlements in order to achieve the targets for water allocation reform and ensure the efficient use of water, and representivity and governance of water user associations. 

In amending the Water Services Act, the department aims to enhance the following regulatory objectives:
•    Expand on the objects of the Act the regulation for safely managed sanitation;
•    Include enforcement and rectification as further object of the Act;
•    Provide for the accountability of water services providers in respect of the management, reporting and financial transparency through requirement of operating licence;
•    Provide for the issuance of operating licence, content of the licence and Regulations for licence procedure;
•    Develop regulations relating to registration of persons who install and operate water service works; 
•    Provide for the quality of potable or drinking water; 
•    Provide for the establishment and governance structures of water boards, the appointment of the chief executive officer and employees of water boards; 
•    Provide for monitoring, enforcement and intervention on poor performance and non-performance of WSPs (Water Safety Plans); and
•    Expand on penalties for non-compliance with the Act

The public consultations will start in Upington, Northern Cape on 30 January 2024, followed by the engagements in all other provinces.

For confirmation to attend the Northern Cape consultation can be sent to cloetes@dws.gov.za 

The closing date for written submission is on 01 March 2024 and submissions should be sent to Mapula Khuduga at KhudugaM@dws.gov.za or telephone number 012 336 7835.

The Gazette is available on www.gpwonline.co.za. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 01/25/2024 - 10:49

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Pandor leads SA delegation as ICJ is set to deliver ruling on genocide case against Israel

Location: News

Pandor leads SA delegation as ICJ is set to deliver ruling on genocide case against Israel

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, will lead South Africa’s delegation at The Hague on Friday to hear the judgment on the genocide case against Israel. 

This is after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) announced that it will deliver its judgment tomorrow on whether it will grant emergency measures to stop the war in the Gaza Strip. 

This comes after South Africa approached the ICJ in December last year, under the Genocide Convention, for alleged attacks committed by Israel on the Gaza Strip.  

“On Friday, 26 January 2024, the International Court of Justice will deliver its order on the request for the indication of provisional measures submitted by South Africa in the case concerning the application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip,” the ICJ statement read.

In its application, South Africa also pleaded with the court to indicate provisional measures to “protect against further severe and irreparable harm to the rights of the Palestinian people under the Genocide Convention” and “to ensure Israel’s compliance with its obligations under the Genocide Convention not to engage in genocide, and to prevent and to punish genocide". 

Public hearings on South Africa’s request were held on 11 and 12 January 2024. 

“South Africa is requesting that the ICJ grant interim injunctions, including that Israel immediately cease its military operations in Gaza, take reasonable measures to prevent the genocide of Palestinians, ensure that the displaced return to their homes and have access to humanitarian assistance,” DIRCO said. 

According to the department, the humanitarian assistance includes adequate food, water, fuel, medical and hygiene supplies, shelter and clothing. 

The country also wants the top United Nations (UN) court to take the necessary steps to punish those involved in the genocide and preserve the evidence of genocide. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Thu, 01/25/2024 - 09:17

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DPWI Minister to award bursaries to deserving students

Location: News

DPWI Minister to award bursaries to deserving students

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala will on Thursday award bursaries to 100 learners from the class of 2023 Matriculants, who have enrolled to study various built environment courses at universities across the country.

The bursaries are part of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure’s (DPWI) Skills Pipeline Programme, which is one of government’s initiatives to bring more skilled professionals into the public sector and specifically the built environment.

As part of building a capable and ethical State, the DPWI annually awards bursaries to pupils in need of financial assistance, who display academic excellence and have been accepted for courses in the built environment for their tertiary education.

The bursary programme further aims to increase the number of built environment professionals from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and ensure transformation of the sector.

It also serves as a feeder to the department’s Internship and Young Professionals Programme and later forms a pool of qualified built environment professionals to serve the state in the delivery of infrastructure projects.

The bursary is for careers in the built industry, including Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Marine Engineering, Property Studies/Real Estate, Actuarial Science, Quantity Surveying, Construction Project Management, Landscape Architecture, Architecture and Town and Regional Planning.

The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, project and compulsory study resources and a monthly stipend.

In its 10th year of existence since 2014, the DPWI bursary programme has so far benefited over 500 deserving students, an investment of over R160 million into the lives of the students and to bring the required skills into the public sector. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 09:25

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Nxesi calls on employers to register vacancies and training opportunities with the department

Location: News

Nxesi calls on employers to register vacancies and training opportunities with the department

Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi has called on employers to register their vacancies and available training opportunities on the department’s job placement platform - the Employment Services System of South Africa (ESSA) - to help cushion the effects of poverty and unemployment.
 
The Minister was speaking at an employer briefing session at Digital Hub in Botshabelo in the Free State on Wednesday. The briefing session coincided with the start of the two-day Jobs Fair held at Kaizer Sebothelo Stadium – Botshabelo Arena, today. 

“We are willing and ready to assist you in the recruitment and selection of your future employees, free of charge. In other words, no employer will be charged labour brokering fees where you opt to use our systems. We offer similar services free of charge to work seekers. 

“Please get involved in these initiatives so that you are not left behind. They benefit companies; they benefit work seekers, particularly the youth, and they contribute to economic development and help build social cohesion,” the Minister said. 

Today’s briefing was also led by discussions on National Labour Migration Policy, the Employment Equity discussions, Labour Activation Programme presentation, Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act and the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy.

“I don’t have to lecture you as employers on the high rate of crime that we are currently experiencing. The youth remain vulnerable in the labour market, it is a ticking time bomb and represents the greatest risk to social stability in South Africa. Mind-sets need to change, innovations need to be sought and collaborations strengthened to bring about a halt to the staggering unemployment amongst youth.

“From our side, we have started this initiative - engaging in a number of Jobs and Career Fairs across the country - and we have been running them for the last two years. We have introduced state of the art mobile units that are assisting a great deal in servicing work seekers. We have partnered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), as well as with the Department of Basic Education (DBE),” Nxesi said. 

He said the partnership with institutions of learning was part of Education for Employability (E4E) - a joint project funded by the European Union to smooth the transition from school to work.

“We are supporting the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative and coordinating various interventions in this regard. We continue to make funding available under the UIF Labour Activation Program towards various partnership projects designed to create employment,” he said.

The department is this week providing an integrated service delivery programme which also includes taking services to the people, unemployment insurance processing, administering the compensation for occupational injuries and diseases claims and conducting blitz inspections. 

On Thursday, the Minister is expected to address work seekers during the Jobs Fair at Kaizer Sebothelo Stadium – Botshabelo Arena.

The Free State Jobs Fair follows on the heels of others held last year in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, North West and Limpopo. 

In early January, the department also held a Jobs Fair in Thulamahashe in Mpumalanga Province. More Jobs Fairs are to be held in George, Cape Town and other provinces.

 
The Department of Employment and Labour Jobs Fair concept seeks to stimulate employment of work seekers particularly amongst youth. The event also provides an opportunity where job seekers can interact with potential employers for placement and learn about available job opportunities.

It is an initiative championed by the Department’s Public Employment Services (PES) branch and seeks to create opportunities for work seekers and provide a platform to interact with prospective employers. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 14:15

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Decline of 2.3% in fatal road crashes during 2023/24 festive season

Location: News

Decline of 2.3% in fatal road crashes during 2023/24 festive season

While the preliminary results for the 2023/24 festive season road traffic statistics show a 2.3% decline in the number of fatal crashes when compared to the same period last year, the data indicates that the majority of those who died were between the ages of 25 and 44.

Releasing the 2023/24 festive season road traffic statistics, Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga said during the period under review 1 184 fatal crashes were recorded compared to 2022/23 where 1 212 crashes were recorded.

“The period shows that human factors contributed 80.8% of the crashes, environmental factors contributed 10.4% as a result of heavy rainfall and storms, while vehicle factors contributed about 8.8%.

“According to the statistics, 40.9% of those who died were pedestrians, passengers accounted for 33.6%, drivers accounted for 24.6% and cyclists accounted for 0.8%,” Chikunga said on Wednesday in Johannesburg at the N1 Grasmere Toll Gate.

She accredited the decline in fatal crashes to the intensified law enforcement operations conducted and the high police visibility throughout the country.

More than 1.4 million vehicles were stopped and checked during these operations with 7 820 drivers arrested for, among other things, driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, producing false documentation and excessive speeding.

The Minister noted that the festive period was marked by heavy rain and storms, which created challenges on the road.

“Unfortunately, some drivers did not modify their speed in slippery and wet conditions. That resulted in avoidable crashes. Most of the crashes occurred in the first week from 1 December to 5 December, again from 15 December – 21 December and from 22 December to 28 December. The first week incorporated the payday weekend when people had received bonuses and were having end of year parties.

“The third week incorporated the long weekend, industry closure and the people had started travelling while the fourth week incorporated the Christmas long weekend and saw a massive increase in traffic volumes and festivities.

“Most crashes took place in the evening between 7pm and 10pm with the peak between 8pm and 9pm. Most fatalities were also recorded on Sundays, which is a new trend,” Chikunga said.

Five provinces - including the Free State, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Limpopo and North West - recorded fewer fatalities while other provinces recorded increases.

The provincial breakdown for provinces is as follows:

  • Free State recorded a 27.4% decline.
  • Eastern Cape recorded a 21.5% decline.
  • Northern Cape recorded a 15.7% decline.
  • Limpopo recorded an 8.4% decline.
  • North West recorded a 2.1% decline.
  • Gauteng recorded a 7.6% increase.
  • KwaZulu-Natal recorded a 4.2% increase.
  • Mpumalanga recorded a 9.7% increase.
  • Western Cape recorded a 22.6% increase

“The Eastern Cape is the only province that managed to surpass the target set for it to reduce fatalities by at least 18.6%. In light of this, we will have serious engagements with authorities in the provinces and possibly redefine the targets informed by objective dynamics and available resources on the ground in the provinces,” the Minister said.

She said the number of registered vehicles at the start of the festive season campaign on 1 December 2023, stood at 13 133 035, which was significantly higher than the 12 964 430 registered on 1 December 2022 and thus bringing more 168 000 registered vehicles on to the road.

“I wish to commend our traffic officers, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and emergency medical services for their sterling work, commitment, and dedication during this period. They sacrificed their family time and pleasure as they committedly enforced the law,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 14:18

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Initial consultation on National Employment Policy (NEP) concludes

Location: News

Initial consultation on National Employment Policy (NEP) concludes

Internal government consultations on the country’s National Employment Policy (NEP) have been concluded and the Department of Employment and Labour will be approaching Cabinet before the end of February to release it for public comment.

This was announced by Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi on Wednesday during an employer briefing session at a Digital Hub located at the Industrial Park in Botshabelo. 

The Digital Hub seeks to bridge the digital divide among the township residents and equip young people with skills and knowledge to prepare them for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. 

The NEP is aimed at fostering a demand-led employment growth and is expected to provide an overarching framework on issues of employment, including the National Labour Migration Policy (NLMP). The NLMP and the Employment Services (ES) Bill are currently in Parliament before the legislators.

Nxesi said the Department of Employment and Labour and the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) are currently working on legislation - the National Labour Migration Policy (NLMP) – that is going to respond decisively to the challenge with respect to foreigner’s employment.

“I can only sound an early warning to employers continuing to employ undocumented migrants to desist – you are stoking up problems for the future. Youth unemployment is a major national challenge and needs urgent and coordinated responses from all of us to address it,” Nxesi said. 

The draft NEP provides a number of interventions that include work beyond the Department of Employment and Labour to assist the country in achieving the employment levels indicated in the National Development Plan. 

The NEP proposes among others the re-activation of discouraged and inactive work-seekers through targeted interventions at sector, firm and work-seeker level that influence investment, productivity and employment outcomes.

The Minister said the National Labour Migration Policy and the Employment Policy are aimed at strengthening labour market interventions and to further support other related employment interventions that are already part of the macro-economic and fiscal policy framework.

He said the successful implementation of the policies will require inter-departmental collaboration and key stakeholders in the labour market. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 14:23

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Municipalities called to re-invest revenue collection into water services

Location: News

Municipalities called to re-invest revenue collection into water services

Water and Sanitation Deputy Ministers, Judith Tshabalala and David Mahlobo, have called for municipalities to re-invest money collected from revenue into water and sanitation services to ensure sustainability of infrastructure that will stand the test of time.

The Deputy Ministers made the call during an oversight visit to Mbombela Local Municipality in Mpumalanga to assess the state of water and sanitation services in the municipality.

Addressing a meeting held with Ehlanzeni District and Mbombela Local Municipalities officials and various stakeholders, Mahlobo decried the increasing levels of non-revenue water, which he attributed to old and dilapidated water infrastructure, as well as illegal connections.

Mahlobo underscored the need to drastically reduce water losses and the need for a concrete plan to reducelosses. This includes asset management and revenue enhancement to help stabilise the municipalities.

“Operation and maintenance, and renewal of water and sanitation infrastructure is of critical importance, and we need to invest in this consistently. Part of the money that people pay for services needs to be used for maintaining the existing infrastructure so that we don’t experience problems in the long run,” Mahlobo said.

Mahlobo urged the Mbombela Local Municipality not to rely too much on water tankering, and advised them to use it only when it is necessary on an interim basis to avoid the high cost for the service. 

If the municipality has to use water tankers, Mahlobo said, the tankers must be government owned and not privately owned because this promotes the “black market”, a phenomenon of groups of people, who allegedly damage water infrastructure deliberately in order to benefit from it.

Tshabalala said the department is committed to supporting Mbombela Local Municipality in its quest to turn things around, and ensure sustainable provision of basic services to the people.

Tshabalala reiterated that water and sanitation services are basic constitutional rights that people are entitled to, and government is duty bound to provide these services in a sustainable manner.

“It is our interest as national government to give support to municipalities as Water Services Authorities to render these services. We are here to support you, but you must give us concrete plans with clear timeframes, [and] we will dispatch our teams to give you all forms of support, including technical support,” Tshabalala said.

The meeting agreed that a steering committee will be established to deal with water issues in the province focusing on all the regions. 

The committee will include representatives from all spheres of government, as well as Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency, an entity of the department in Mpumalanga. 

The committee is expected to meet urgently to devise plans that will restore the dignity of communities and ensure sustainable water and sanitation services in the province.

The oversight ended with a visit to Kanyamazane and Karino Water Treatment Plants for the Deputy Ministers to get first-hand experience of the challenges that hinder water provision to the communities. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 13:15

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Correctional Services class of 2023 achieves 93.2% pass rate

Location: News

Correctional Services class of 2023 achieves 93.2% pass rate

The matric pass rate of inmates at correctional facilities has reached some 93.2%, with a total of 137 out of 147 full time candidates passing the 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams.

Part-time candidates achieved a pass rate of 84%.

In a ceremony celebrating the 2023 matriculants, Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola congratulated candidates who achieved no less than 100 Bachelor passes, 41 Diploma passes and some 16 Higher Certificate passes.

“To our learners, despite the tough conditions as a result of incarceration, your determination, unmatched commitment, and hard work have paid off and you triumphed where some of your peers outside failed. You have done us, your families and the entire country proud.

“We congratulate you for raising high the flag of Correctional Services, a welcome development we applaud.  When we release you, go out there and be good ambassadors of Correctional Services. Behave yourselves and do not engage in activities which will bring you into conflict with the law again,” he said.

The Correctional Services class of 2023 also achieved 129 distinctions, with nine schools obtaining a 100% pass rate.

“Those of you who will be registering for higher education, work hard in your studies so that you not only complete your degrees in record time, but also attain distinctions in your subjects. I want to remind all of you again, as we do annually, that we do not pay tuition fees of inmates at institutions of higher learning, rather their families and bursaries carry the costs,” Lamola said.

The Minister described some of the programmes set up for inmates, which he said are designed to “empower inmates to transform their lives and enable them not to return to their previous lives of crime”.

One of those programmes is the Self-Sufficiency Strategic Framework, which transfers skills to inmates where they produce “their own food, renovate public infrastructure such as schools, clinics and orphanage centres”.

“We have worked together with the provincial Departments of Education in the country to paint and renovate schools to ensure that learners attend classes in a conducive environment.

“We equally have built houses for the victims of crime who were living in dilapidated structures, and our inmates have restored the dignity of our people. Inmates have also established sustainable vegetable gardens in communities and schools to fight against hunger and poverty through the self-sufficiency and strategic framework,” he said.

According to Lamola, this programme has allowed inmates to return to communities with skills.

“Today some of our communities boasts of plumbers, brick-layers, hair stylists, beautification specialists, bakers, and farmers, to mention but a few as a result of skills that were transferred to inmates during their term of incarceration.

“We have equally offered employers resourceful, gainful and adaptable employees who are contributing towards the growth of various companies across the country. All that we are appealing for is for employers not to overlook our skilled parolees but rather give them equal opportunities and pay them fairly for their labour.

“I want to reiterate that we remain resolute in making education compulsory for all young offenders, they must leave our correctional centres with skills which will empower them to live crime free lives,” Lamola said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 10:41

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Free State arts town now manages its own electricity load

Location: News

Free State arts town now manages its own electricity load

Eskom has announced that the Free State town of Clarens, in the eastern part of the province, has become South Africa’s first town where residents are now equipped to manage their own electricity load through load curtailment.

Eskom Free State Senior Manager for Retail, Bibi Bedir, explained that although many municipalities and large customers have been engaging in load curtailment, “group curtailment – where a community manages its own load curtailment – was however piloted in Clarens”.

“Group curtailment requires the collaborative efforts of the entire community to reduce load when requested. Once a system emergency is declared, Eskom gives a nominated group coordinator two hours’ notice of load curtailment that should be sustained throughout load shedding. The group coordinator directs the community who decides which equipment will be switched off to achieve the required demand reduction.

“For the residents of a tiny town that depends on an economic inflow from tourists visiting their small businesses mostly over weekends and holidays, power interruptions due to load shedding required a solution that would allow the town’s economy to thrive while still contributing to a reduction in electricity demand when the national grid is under strain,” Bedir said.

The town’s nominated group coordinator, Gert Kruger, described the move as “life changing” for businesses in the town.

In Clarens, curtailment compliance is managed through an application that was developed by a company managed by Kruger, which signals to customers that load curtailment has been called.

“For a town that depends on tourism, not being subjected to load shedding is life changing. Although the success depends on the voluntary participation of residents and businesses, we have the community’s support as everyone benefits from cooperating.

“Feedback from visitors, restaurants and accommodation establishments is very positive and without the noise of generators, tourists can enjoy Clarens’ natural beauty,” Kruger said.

Monitoring compliance

Eskom explained that during curtailment Stages 1 to 4, customers are asked to reduce electricity demand by some 10 to 20%.

“Unlike load shedding where the customers are switched off as per their schedule, load curtailment must be sustained. Eskom continuously monitors the reduction in demand of its curtailment customers, as three instances of non-compliance will result in the reinstatement of normal load shedding,” the power utility said.

In Clarens, curtailment compliance is managed through an application that was developed by a company managed by Kruger, which signals to customers that load curtailment has been called.

“[This] acts as a trigger for residents to set their load reduction plans in motion. A meter was installed at the town’s main point of supply. Every 60 seconds, the meter sends real-time statistics of the town’s current demand, prompting further reduction if required.

“So far, the project is successful with residents being able to sufficiently reduce and manage their load, making the Clarens project a benchmark for similar projects to be rolled out in other areas of the country.

“As Clarens is already gearing up for smart city initiatives with smart metering and electrical vehicle charging stations already installed, as well as a well-diverse spread of small-scale embedded generators (SSEGs), Eskom was eager to help Clarens' residents in the evolution from an art town to a smart town,” the power utility said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 09:45

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R4 billion upfront payment for higher learning institutions

Location: News

R4 billion upfront payment for higher learning institutions

In a bid to ensure a smooth start to the 2024 academic year, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) will process up to R4.2 billion as an upfront payment to all higher learning institutions, prior to the application and registration finalisation period. 

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, made the announcement during a media briefing in Pretoria on Tuesday on the department’s state of readiness for the opening of the 2024 Post School Education and Training (PSET) academic year.

“Out of its financial reserves, NSFAS will pay R1 billion to TVET [Technical Vocational Education and Training] colleges and R3.2 billion to universities. In 2024, living allowance will be R16 500 for university students, [which includes] R3 045 personal care allowance and R13 455 meal allowance per year,” Nzimande said. 

He also announced that the TVET living allowance will increase from R6 000 to R10 000 as part of continued efforts to bring parity between the university and TVET sectors. 

In addition, the department has introduced the differentiated accommodation cap between metro and non-metro areas, which will see all institutions owned or leased, and private accommodation being capped at R50 000 in metro areas and R41 000 in other areas per academic year. 

“Students living in institution-catered accommodation qualify for a maximum allowance capped at R66 500 in metros and R57 500 in all other areas per annum. Institutions in non-metro areas may request NSFAS to review the assigned accommodation cap in exceptional circumstances, and such request must be accompanied by a detailed motivation and supporting evidence for NSFAS consideration. 

“Students who opt to make their own accommodation arrangements with immediate family or with relatives do not qualify for the accommodation allowance, [but] they qualify for a travel allowance determined by the institution, up to a maximum of R7 875 in 2024,” Nzimande explained. 

He added that all university students qualify for a learning material allowance set at a maximum amount of R5 460 for students for the 2024 academic year. 

“The learning material allowances must be used for the purchase of academic books and materials and/or a learning device, [and] only one allowance is provided per student per academic year. Allowances for students in distance education programmes are calculated based on the number of courses registered up to a maximum of R5 460. 

“Distance university students studying an equivalent full-time course credit load qualify for the personal care allowance of R3 045 per academic year [and] this requires a student to be registered for a minimum of 120 course credits in one academic year. Allowances for students in distance education programmes are calculated based on the number of courses registered up to a maximum of R5 460,” Nzimande said. 

Distance university students studying an equivalent full-time course credit load also qualify for personal care allowance of R3 045 per academic year, which requires a student to register a minimum of 120 course credits in one academic year. 

TVET colleges own catered residence in metros is capped at R60 000 and in other areas is capped at R51 000, with students either qualifying for the travel allowance or the accommodation allowance. 

Nzimande emphasised that TVET college students who are registered on an occupational qualification may qualify for allowances, only if “in simulated training, students registered on an occupational qualification that have an employment contract and are paid stipend do not qualify for NSFAS allowances”.

R20 000 allowance for students with disabilities

Students with disabilities qualify for living allowances including meals at R20 000 per academic year.

“They qualify for learning materials allowance of R6 000 per academic year for university students only. TVET college learning material allowance is included in the cost of tuition. 

“Assistive devices allowance actual cost is limited to R50 000 as a once off allowance.  These students also qualify for a repairs and maintenance of assistive devices to the value of 2 000 per academic year,” the Minister said. 

Nzimande said students with disabilities do not automatically qualify for the allowance for assistive devices, or its repairs and maintenance, noting that the allowances are only granted if the student application for the allowances is approved, and “all conditions and criteria are met as set out in the policy standard”. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 01/24/2024 - 09:53

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Over one million NSFAS bursary applications received

Location: News

Over one million NSFAS bursary applications received

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has received 1 545 822 applications for the 2024 academic year as of 21 January, with additional applications expected before the application cycle closes on 31 January 2024.

Briefing the media on the department’s state of readiness for the opening of the 2024 Post School Education and Training (PSET) academic year on Tuesday, Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, said the scheme has provisionally funded 657 703 South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) recipients’ applicants.

He urged all NSFAS applicants to submit a consent form in order to verify relevant information from third parties and ensure that NSFAS complies with all the legislative requirements.

“The information is required to verify the employment status and income level of the parents, guardians, or spouses of the applicant. It is mandatory for applicants to download and upload a completed Consent form on the NSFAS website, portal or mobile app.

“The SARS (South African Revenue Service) Consent Form requirements affects students who are in the application data category and these students should patiently wait for communication from NSFAS through SMS and email, which will provide instructions on how to upload the form,” Nzimande said.

The Minister warned that non-submission of a complete, accurate and duly signed NSFAS consent form would disqualify a student for NSFAS funding due to NSFAS's inability to evaluate and determine financial eligibility. 

In a bid to improve its contacts with students, NSFAS has launched new platforms, where applicants can access their application updates at their fingertips through the downloadable NSFAS student mobile app, WhatsApp line and a USSD code.

Applicants can add NSFAS on WhatsApp 078 519 8006 or USSD *120*67327 to track their application status.

Institutions called to submit student list for accommodation 

Meanwhile, Nzimande has called on all higher learning institutions to submit the list of NSFAS funded students, who have been registered, so that they apply for accommodation through the scheme’s accommodation portal.

Nzimande said NSFAS is piloting the accreditation of private student accommodation in 17 universities and 23 Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges for the 2024 academic year.

Through this pilot programme, Nzimande said NSFAS intends to ensure that student accommodation service providers provide student accommodation that is accessible, decent, safe and academically conducive for all students.

The purpose of the student accommodation programme is to assign students to available accommodation; accredit accommodation providers; pay accommodation fees to accommodation providers through secured platforms; and grade accommodation to create a standard and ascertain cap for accommodation, amongst others.

“Out of the total of 38 938 beds registered on NSFAS platforms in our TVET colleges, 25 989 beds have been accredited and are available for the registered students, and 12 949 beds are in the process of been accredited. For universities, of the total 67 337 beds registered, 42 965 have been accredited and available and 24 372 beds are in the process of being accredited.

“From 18 January 2024, NSFAS provided access to a portal for all institutions in order to view the available beds. Accrediting agents are continuing with the process of accreditation and the list is updated daily,” Nzimande said. 

From 8 January 2024, NSFAS has been providing weekly training on the application and registration process to accommodation providers and students, and the training is expected to end in February 2024.

Nzimande added that during this year’s registration period, NSFAS has developed a plan to visit hot spot areas, to ensure that students are not left stranded and without accommodation. – SAnews.gov.za

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Wed, 01/24/2024 - 09:30

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Investment in transmission critical

Location: News

Investment in transmission critical

Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says on boarding new generating capacity – particularly renewable energy – is critical to ensuring that additional capacity is added to the national grid.

He was speaking during an update on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan on Tuesday.

The expansion is critical to on boarding new generating capacity  – particularly renewable energy – onto the national grid to relieve pressure on the electricity system.

Ramokgopa explained that “tremendous progress” is being done to ensure that solutions are found for transmission.

“As the President said last week, the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity is now given the responsibility to ensure that we are able to go into the market to procure or to access the financing in relation to the transmission side.

“We have been doing an extraordinary amount of work. The team was [at the World Economic Forum annual meeting] in Davos. Part of those conversations was to enter into bilateral discussions with some of the potential financiers. 

“We have...financing. That is private sector willing to come into the space of transmission. We had conversations...with the heads of missions that are represented here in the country and they did confirm that availability of that financing,” he said.

Ramokgopa assured that although private sector participation is being encouraged in the transmission space, the South African government will remain the owner of the grid through the Eskom owned and newly established National Transmission Company of South Africa.

“What we have been doing is to find an architecture and legal configuration on how best we are going to access [funding] and one of the areas that is receiving attention is the possibility of us putting together…something that is akin to the IPP [Independent Power Producer Procurement] office on the generation side…an Independent Transmission Project office.

“[This is] to ensure that we are able to procure with speed, agility, applying some degree of innovation and ensure that we are able to access that liquidity that’s sitting with the private sector without relinquishing state ownership of the grid,” he said.

The minister acknowledged that transmission expansion is facing challenges. However, he emphasised that government is tackling these challenges.

“The challenges on the transmission side are almost equivalent to the ones on the generation side and in fact, if they are not tackled immediately they are likely to be even more catastrophic compared to the challenges on the generation side because those are likely to undermine our ability to maintain the integrity of the system.

“We are not waiting for the crisis to confront us. We are going to address that situation immediately. This is in support of Eskom’s work…consistent with their transmission development plan which advocates for the expansion of the network,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tue, 01/23/2024 - 14:41

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Take fraction in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme

Location: News

Take part in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme

The Department of Tourism has invited eligible tourism enterprises to take part in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme’s (GTIP) 9th application window, opening on 25 January until 31 March 2024.

The development of the GTIP was informed by escalating electricity prices, the intensifying pressure on the national energy grid and negative impacts of load shedding, as well as water scarcity and drought conditions which negatively impact the tourism sector.

This programme encourages private sector tourism enterprises to move towards the installation of solutions for the sustainable management and usage of electricity and water resources.

GTIP has already assisted 173 tourism businesses across the country with electricity and water solutions to the total grant value of R104 285 673.

The solutions that were installed as part of this process helped reduce input costs and increase operational sustainability and competitiveness. A further 419 active applications are at various stages of processing, according to the department.

For this financial year, the department has set aside R199 151 179 to disburse to successful GTIP applicants.

The department said it has worked closely with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to develop the GTIP for the sector to ensure an enhanced and uninterrupted visitor experience for tourists. Funding applications and approvals for the GTIP are managed by the IDC.

Eligible applicants are able to qualify for the full cost of a new energy and water efficiency audit or the review of an existing audit.

Furthermore, eligible applicants are also able to qualify for grant funding of between 50% and 90% (capped at a maximum of R1 million per applicant) on the cost of approved solutions that will improve energy and water efficiency and reduce the costs of their tourism operations.

“This programme is one that I am most proud of that the department is able to offer the tourism sector where by going green, tourism establishments are able to offer an uninterrupted visitor experience and ensure that the sector can continue to operate despite energy and water constraints,” Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille said.

“This initiative is also vital to our efforts to adapt and mitigate to the impacts of climate change by helping businesses use water wisely and use clean forms of energy thereby reducing carbon emissions.

“I encourage businesses to apply for this support by the Department of Tourism so that we can keep the tourism sector green,” de Lille said.

The GTIP has yielded many success stories.

Ingrid Young of Cliffhanger Cottage from Rheenendal, Knysna, is one of the guesthouse owners the department assisted with water tanks and installation of solar panels for generating energy as well as pumping water in her establishment through the GTIP.

She confidently said she is now able to accommodate her customers as she can operate her business with ease.

“This programme installed solar panels which is assisting me in heating geysers, cooking as well as pumping of water from the borehole. I am content as my tourism business is now booming, because of the number of bookings I receive,” Mehlomakulu Mehlomakulu from Fort Hook Guesthouse in Phelandaba outside Sterkspruit in the Eastern Cape said, thanking the department.

Anthony Maitland, the owner of Teniqua Tree Tops Guesthouse situated between Thatchfield and Knysna, said: “The water pumping system in my guesthouse as well as frequent load shedding in the area used to be a huge problem until the installation of solar panels which is assisting with the water pumping system as well as curbing load shedding in my guesthouse.

“I am now at ease to operate the business without any fear of energy outages. I can recommend this programme to emerging and existing tourism establishments.”

The GTIP does not only assist in reducing pressure on the national electricity grid and water resources of the country, but also reduce operational input cost and facilitate increased competitiveness and operational sustainability in the tourism sector.

The department said it continues to advance climate action in tourism for the resilience of the sector as well as strengthening adaptive capacity.

For more information or to apply for the GTIP programme visit www.tourism.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 01/23/2024 - 15:23

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Read moreTake fraction in the Green Tourism Incentive Programme

Man arrested for child pornography

Location: News

Man arrested for child pornography

A man who posed as a teenager to lure under-age girls to a chat group where child pornography was distributed and shared, is amongst three Child Online Sexual predators arrested in a joint operation by the SAPS Serial and Electronic Crime Investigations (SECI) unit.

The USA Department of Homelands Security was also involved in the arrest in the past week.

This brings to total the number of Child Online Sexual Predators that have been arrested since November to seven.

The other four were arrested in November last year. Three were arrested in Gauteng and one in KwaZulu-Natal.

These arrests form part of an international operation to trace manufacturers, users and distributors of child pornography.

The three suspects were arrested in Worcester, Kraaifontein and Mitchell’s Plain.

A 53-year-old man from Worcester was the first to be arrested on Wednesday, 17 January 2024. He has so far been found with 95 000 images and 6 000 videos of child pornogrpahy. He faces a charge of accessing, distributing and possession of child pornography.

The second suspect, a 40-year-old man was arrested in Kraaifontein on Thursday.

In his possession, he was found with more than 149 000 pictures of child pornography as well as more than 5 000 videos.

He was found in possession of two unlicensed firearms and various calibre of ammunition, as well as nine snakes of which three did not have a permit. He is facing charges of possession of illegal firearms and ammunition, possession, distribution and accessing of child pornography.

A 32-year-old man from Mitchell’s Plan was the third suspect to be arrested on Friday.

He was found to be chatting and luring under-age girls on a chat group where nude pictures where exchanged.

All suspects appeared before various courts such as Worcester, Kraaifontein and Mitchells Plain Magistrate’s Court where their cases were postponed for further investigation.

This operation would not have been a successful without the following role players, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of WC, NPA, Cape Nature, and SPCA.

Below are a few tips for parents:

▶️Monitor the devices and social media accounts of your children to ensure they don’t fall prey to such crimes.

▶️Install parental control software and apps that can identify and block harmful content in chats, forms and other internet communication tools.

▶️ Advise children not to respond to messages or emails from strangers.

▶️ Never upload sexually suggestive images of yourself to the internet.

▶️ Never reveal personal information about yourself, including where you stay or which school you go to, to an online friend.

▶️Never agree to meet a stranger in private.

▶️ Inform an adult or call 0860010111 to report any incident that makes you feel uncomfortable. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 01/23/2024 - 15:25

156 views
Read moreMan arrested for child pornography