SA News

23 January 2024

Electricity system performance ‘exceeding expectations – Minister Ramokgopa

Location: News

Electricity system performance 'exceeding expectations - Minister Ramokgopa

The health of South Africa’s electricity system is continuing to show improvement despite the continued implementation of load shedding.

This according to Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who was the media on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan on Tuesday.

“We have really turned the corner and I’m not suggesting that we have ended load shedding. I’m simply saying that we can see that there’s light at the end of the tunnel and this is not an oncoming train but it’s a system who’s health continues to improve and improve at levels that even exceeded our projections and expectations.

“With the average unplanned capacity loss factor [generating unit breakdowns], we were sitting at about 14 100MW and then it went to 13 000MW the past week but what is important is that it’s only on the 16th of January where were above 15 000MW…now today, we are at 12 700MW. That shows an area…that the team has invested in and we are beginning to see those returns,” he said.

The minister revealed that over the past two weeks, available capacity has “consistently” exceeded peak demand.

However, there are reasons that load shedding continues to be implemented.

The first of those is that at least 3000MW of available capacity is drawn from open cycle gas turbines “which are burning on diesel so we have reduced our consumption of diesel…so essentially it’s the true health of the system”.

“The second one is that…planned maintenance still is significantly high. We are hitting about 8000 to 9000MW of planned maintenance.

“Even with that scale of planned maintenance we still have a situation where we are able to keep load shedding at the levels of the worst, Stage 3 [or] oscillating between no load shedding to Stage 3 at the worst moment,” he said.

The Minister emphasised that work continues to be done in the area of partial load losses – that is, when generating units do not produce the full capacity they were intended to.

“The area that is receiving attention is the partial load losses of 6700MW. It is our collective view…that we can do much better here. Of course some of it is a function of us exceeding our license parameters, those are areas that require attention.

“So…the net message that I am conveying is that the system continues to improve. It has exceeded our expectation if the unit measure of the expectation is the unplanned capacity loss factor of 14 500MW…we are way below that by about 1000MW despite the fact that planned maintenance is sitting at 8337MW,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 01/23/2024 - 14:26

13 views

23 January 2024

Several parts of KZN classified disaster areas following floods

Location: News

Several parts of KZN classified disaster areas following floods

Several flood-stricken parts of KwaZulu-Natal have been classified disaster areas by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng.

The move will enable government to access additional funding from provincial and national departments to start repairs as soon as possible.

According to the SABC, the disaster areas include Ilembe, Ugu and UMzinyathi municipalities and the hardest-hit eThekwini Metro and uThukela District, which suffered about R2 billion worth of damage.

“Nkadimeng says the classification is done while processing for the declaration is underway,” the public broadcaster explained.

Heavy rains have ravaged KwaZulu-Natal since mid-December, spilling over to the new year.

Ladysmith, which falls under UThukela District, has recorded 26 fatalities due to inclement weather during the festive season.

Meanwhile, the Minister also emphasised the need to find a lasting solution for the flooding of the Ladysmith Central Business District (CBD) by channelling water towards preservation dams or catchment areas to avoid flooding.

Nkadimeng led a multidisciplinary intergovernmental team on a visit to the uThukela District Municipality, specifically in the Alfred Duma Local Municipality on Friday.

The Minister was accompanied by Deputy Minister Parks Tau and KZN CoGTA MEC Bongi Sithole-Moloi.

The leaders engaged various stakeholders from across all sectors of society representing a wide range of communities.

“The engagements and the assessment showed the devastation caused by flooding, especially on lives and livelihoods which has resulted in extensive damages to properties and critical infrastructure collapse leaving affected families homeless.”

The department believes that the impact of natural disasters is made worse by the ongoing impact of climate change, which has brought unprecedented weather patterns.

“The Minister emphasised the need for all role players including communities to ensure better-integrated planning to mitigate the impact of such adverse natural disasters.

“She made it clear that disaster risk reduction and adaptability are the only way to reduce the impact of climate change,” CoGTA said.

Nkadimeng also appreciated the ongoing work and urged that other additional planned interventions in the municipality geared to improving mitigation against floods be accelerated.

The visit by the Minister, the department said, is an expression of government’s commitment to elevating integrated disaster management and the promotion of risk-averse behaviour among communities in keeping with the ethos of a caring government.

“She advised that government through the Disaster Management Centre, will assist to mobilise resources to rebuild and rehabilitate the damages to infrastructure.”

The Minister also conveyed her sincere condolences to all who lost their loved ones as a result of the recent heavy rains.

She also took the time to thank communities who assisted those who were displaced by floods.

“The selfless and compassionate actions by ordinary members of our communities and civil society organisations in support of humanitarian aid efforts including search and rescue as well as search and recovery symbolises the true meaning of a caring nation that South African is. We are immensely grateful to everyone for pulling together and showing Ubuntu,” Nkadimeng said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 01/23/2024 - 10:46

248 views

23 January 2024

Government activities for the week 22 – 26 January 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 22 – 26 January 2024

On Wednesday, 24 January, and Thursday, 25 January, the Department of Employment and Labour will be embarking on a series of service delivery activities in Thaba Nchu as a build up towards a Jobs Fair to be held in Botshabelo.

On Wednesday, 24 January, the Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga, will release the 2023/24 festive season road traffic statistics at a media briefing scheduled to take place in Gauteng.

On Tuesday, 23 January, and Wednesday, 24 January, the Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, will embark on a monitoring and oversight visit to schools in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape.

On Wednesday, 24 January, Minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi, will host employers and engage with aspirant workers at an Employer breakfast session and Jobs Fair event to be held in Botshabelo, in the Free State.

On Thursday, 25 January, the South African Reserve Bank’s monetary policy committee (MPC) will announce the first repo rate for the year.

Janine
Tue, 01/23/2024 - 10:50

342 views

22 January 2024

Congratulations Dricus du Plessis for winning UFC

Location: News

Congratulations Dricus du Plessis for winning UFC

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa has congratulated mixed martial artist, Dricus du Plessis, for winning the United Fighting Championship (UFC) Middleweight title.

Du Plessis made history on Sunday as South Africa’s first UFC champion when he defeated American Sean Strickland.

“Du Plessis has flown the South African flag high with his performances in the UFC. I congratulate him on the remarkable achievement of being the first South African to be crowned UFC Champion.

“It has been particularly special to see South Africans unite in their diversity to support their own, as Du Plessis made history. This once again shows the power of South Africans when uniting and supporting their own. Let us carry this spirit, as South Africans continue to make history on global platforms in sport, arts and culture,” Kodwa said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 08:58

461 views

22 January 2024

Education is the most powerful weapon against poverty, says President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Education is the most powerful weapon against poverty, says President Ramaphosa

As the nation commemorates three decades of democracy this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended the accomplishments of the class of 2023 matriculants, saying their success bears testament to the strides taken to enhance accessibility and equality in education.

“This year marks 30 years since South Africa became a democracy with equal rights, dignity and freedoms for all. The achievements of last year's matriculants show the progress we have made not only in making education more accessible, but also in making it more equal,” the President said in his weekly newsletter on Monday.

President Ramaphosa said the matric exam pass rate has been consistently improving over the past decade, from 78% ten years ago to 80% in 2022, with a new record now set by the class of 2023.

He said the country has high expectations of young South Africans who hope to sit for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exam this year. He encouraged this year's cohort to draw inspiration from their predecessors, and challenged them to set their sights even higher.

“The class of 2023 has made our nation proud. The matric results released last week showed an 82.9% pass rate for the cohort of matriculants who sat for the NSC exam last year. This is the highest pass rate obtained since the NSC was introduced in 2008 and is a stellar achievement,” he said.

The President said by 2010, South Africa had attained the Millennium Development Goal of universal primary education. Since then, the country has made steady progress in improving secondary school and post-school outcomes.

The President asserted that education is about so much more than personal betterment or obtaining a qualification to seek gainful employment. He said it is a ladder out of poverty.

“In a country such as ours, universal access to education is by far the most impactful intervention in breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty. It is our most effective weapon to overcome the effects of centuries of racism, discrimination and marginalisation of the black majority.

“To support young people on their learning journey and increase their prospects of completing school, the democratic State provides various forms of social protection to cushion vulnerable and indigent learners from the worst effects of poverty.

“These interventions include, among others, Early Childhood Development, social grants, a nationwide school nutrition programme and no-fee schools,” the President said.

Government also continues to invest heavily in improving school infrastructure, including school sanitation, and in the provision of teacher and learner support materials to schools in poor districts.

To enable eligible young people from poor families to further their studies, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funds the costs of their education.

“While we are proud of all our matriculants, we are particularly proud of the young people who have succeeded in the face of great hardship and adversity.

“Included in the cohort of successful matriculants from last year are young people with disabilities, childcare grant beneficiaries, learners from child-headed households, orphans, those from informal settlements and those from some of the poorest districts in the country,” the President said.

Of the 110 top performing learners in last year's NSC exam, 62 were social grant beneficiaries. In 2023, matriculants, who receive some form of social grant, together achieved more than 160 000 distinctions, and more than 200 000 qualified for university entrance.

Learners from no-fee paying schools constituted more than 65% of the total Bachelor passes obtained. Three of the country's most rural provinces - Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo - contributed 59% of total passes with distinction.

“Of those who have now completed their secondary education, some will go on to further their studies and others will seek employment. I encourage all of society to reward the achievements of the many young people who have successfully passed secondary school by making more opportunities available to them.

“As government we have made the call for businesses to invest in our nation's future by employing more young people and, where possible, to do away with the requirement of prior work experience.

“I encourage companies to use the Employee Tax Incentive to hire more young job-seekers, to make more training and mentorship opportunities available, and to sign up with the Youth Employment Service and other initiatives being rolled out in partnership with government,” President Ramaphosa said.

For the many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who passed matric this year, the President emphasised that being given an opportunity to work or study further is a way out of poverty. He further urged that these young people must be given the hope and chance they need.

“As a country, we have laid the important groundwork for equitable access to education and ensured that young people are supported to finish school. It is now up to all of society to work together to ensure that every South African, young and old, is lifted out of poverty, given access to decent work and an opportunity to fulfil their true potential,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 09:08

750 views

22 January 2024

Zulu congratulates social grant beneficiaries for passing Grade 12

Location: News

Zulu congratulates social grant beneficiaries for passing Grade 12

Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu has praised the Grade 12 students, who benefit from Social Development services and have successfully completed the 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams.

Of the 897 775 Grade 12 learners who wrote their NSC, 543 786 full-time learners were social grant beneficiaries, with 62 out of 110 social grant beneficiaries amongst the top performing learners in different categories, as awarded by the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

According to the department, social grant beneficiaries formed the largest number of learners who wrote their 2023 National Senior Certificate and 441 871 learners passed the NSC examinations which is an overall pass rate of 82.9%.

About 202 156 received a Bachelor's pass, which gains them access to institutions of higher learning, with 160 326 distinctions.

The Minister said that the child support grant formed the biggest grant type received by these learners, with the majority of them from KwaZulu-Natal, the second-best performing province after Free State.

The South African Constitution, through the Child Justice Act, also obligates the state to provide care and support services to children in conflict with the law, including educational opportunities.

According to the data from the Departments of Basic Education and Social Development, 1 630 children in conflict with the law registered for the 2023 NSC.

“Providing educational opportunities for children in conflict with the law is a key element of rehabilitating and re-integrating them back into society. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (the CRC), which South Africa ratified in 1995, recognises the importance of education for children in conflict with the law,” Zulu said.

The Minister detailed that the Social Development sector has been integrating the social protection administrative data system to ensure better coordination of services and tracking of health and educational outcomes for beneficiaries of various government services aimed at tackling child and adult poverty.

She asserted that the linking and sharing of administrative data systems within the social cluster departments - Social Development, SASSA, Department of Basic Education, and NSFAS - ensure information is shared on the academic performance of social grant beneficiaries.

“One such success story of the benefits of linking and sharing of data systems was the agreement between Social Development and NSFAS on the exemption of social grants beneficiaries from the means test, a decision that has significantly bridged the higher education gap as it opened the doors of learning for many, regardless of their socioeconomic background,” the Minister said.

Zulu emphasised that education has the power to break the cycle of poverty and transform lives. By accessing education opportunities at institutions of higher learning, she said, many social grants beneficiaries have succeeded in creating a better future for themselves and their families, thus breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty and inequality.

“The benefits of social grants extend beyond individual beneficiaries to broader society. Our government’s pro-poor policies such as our social assistance programme, no-fee schools, school nutrition, school uniforms, free health care including sanitary dignity packs have made significant impact over the past 30 years in reducing poverty by bridging the education gap for learners from impoverished backgrounds. We will continue to build on the success of these impactful interventions that have lifted many of our people out of poverty," Zulu said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 12:10

268 views

22 January 2024

Team South Africa returns from tough, productive WEF annual meeting – Treasury

Location: News

Team South Africa returns from tough, productive WEF annual meeting - Treasury

The South African delegation to the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting has returned back to SA, having driven home the message that the country remains a "top destination for growth and investment”.

This is according to a media statement released by National Treasury on Monday.

Team South Africa’s delegation was led by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and comprised the Ministers of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande; Communications and Digital Technologies Mondli Gungubele, and Health, Dr Joe Phaahla.

Godongwana said the message to investors, civil society, businesses and governments is that despite the many challenges it faces, South Africa is making progress.

“We took the opportunity of the WEF Davos gathering to remind our partners around the world that South Africa has made tremendous progress in the past 30 years since we achieved democracy.

“Yes, we face a number of obstacles to achieving policy that balances fiscal sustainability, growth-accelerating reforms, and targeted spending on social services and infrastructure. However, we are forging ahead and making good progress,” he said.

According to National Treasury, the annual meeting – held last week in Davos, Switzerland – offered an opportunity for South Africa to engage world leaders on a number of issues.

“[It] offered South Africa’s policymakers a genuine and rare opportunity to speak directly with a cross spectrum of stakeholders in global affairs, exchanging views on how to weather the rise in geopolitical and economic tensions that are shaping today’s world.

“Climate, technology, trade and multilateral cooperation were high on the agenda, as was South Africa’s upcoming presidency of the G20 in 2025.

“In addition to its participation in the G20, the country is playing a key part in the expansion of the BRICS group, as well as the deepening of intercontinental economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 14:46

63 views

22 January 2024

Maape appoints MEC Nono Maloyi as Acting North West Premier

Location: News

Maape appoints MEC Nono Maloyi as Acting North West Premier

The North West Premier Kaobitsa Bushy Maape is out of the country until 31 January 2024, following advice and referral by his doctor to seek further medical treatment in Thailand.

During his absence, the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Nono Maloyi, will act as Premier.

Maloyi has since been sworn in by the Judge President of the North West Division, Ronald Hendricks.

“Lastly, the Office of the Premier wishes to confirm that a formal notification of Premier Maape’s travel has been sent to both the President and the Speaker of the North West provincial legislature,” the statement read.

Maape resumed his duties in November after he fell ill following minor orthopaedic surgery in June 2023.

“He was subsequently advised by his medical team to take a rest while receiving medical attention,” the Premier's Office said at that time. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 12:57

103 views

22 January 2024

Fitch SA rating maintains a stable outlook

Location: News

Fitch SA rating maintains a stable outlook

Government has noted Fitch’s decision to affirm South Africa’s longterm foreign and local currency debt ratings at ‘BB-’ and maintain the stable outlook.

According to Fitch, South Africa's credit rating is constrained by low real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, high level of inequality, a high and rising government debt-to-GDP ratio, and a modest path of fiscal consolidation. Growth is hampered by power shortages and a struggling logistic sector.

“Over the medium term, government will focus on raising GDP growth by improving the provision of electricity, logistics and enhancing the delivery of infrastructure. Fiscal policy continues to support this approach by stabilising debt and debt-service costs,” the National Treasury said.

Fitch said the ratings are supported by a favourable debt structure with long maturities and denominated mostly in local currency, strong institutions as well as a credible monetary policy framework.

The agency estimates that load shedding will reduce in intensity in 2024 and 2025 compared with 2023 but will not disappear. More capacity is expected to come from private-sector investments.

“Government reiterates that fiscal consolidation will be implemented through spending reductions, efficiency measures across government and moderate tax revenue measures,” National Treasury said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 09:33

327 views

22 January 2024

Mashatile to welcome Duke of Edinburgh on working visit to S Africa

Location: News

Mashatile to welcome Duke of Edinburgh on working visit to S Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Tuesday welcome His Royal Highness Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, on a courtesy call at the OR Tambo Official Residence in Pretoria.

The Duke of Edinburgh is on a working visit to South Africa on 22 and 23 January 2024.

According to the Deputy President’s Office, the visit follows the successful State Visit that President Cyril Ramaphosa undertook to the United Kingdom in 2022 at the invitation of King Charles III.

“The visit also indicates the strong bilateral relationship that the United Kingdom and South Africa share,” a statement from the Deputy President’s Office read.

During his visit, His Royal Highness will meet stakeholders from WWF South Africa, Endangered Wildlife Trust, GreenMatterZA, TRAFFIC, International Union for Conservation of Nature, Birdlife, and Conservation South Africa.

Prince Edward will also meet the Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Minister, Barbara Creecy, for a tour of the Pretoria National Botanical Garden.

He will be accompanied on the tour by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) CEO, Shonisani Munzhedi.

This comes after President Ramaphosa visited the Royal Botanical Garden, Kew, in November 2022, and will mark the long-term collaboration between Kew and SANBI to ensure the survival of South Africa’s rich plant diversity.

Prince Edward is also expected to engage with Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande at a dinner marking the deep partnership between South Africa and the United Kingdom in the field of science and innovation.

In addition, the Duke of Edinburgh will meet the awardees of the President’s Awards, the international arm of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, of which President Ramaphosa is a patron.

“Both countries share a strong commitment to youth empowerment,” the statement said.

During the courtesy call, Deputy President Mashatile will also hold discussions with the Duke and his delegation on key areas of importance in the bilateral relationship between South Africa and the United Kingdom. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 09:51

231 views

22 January 2024

Ekurhuleni launches clean up campaign

Location: News

Ekurhuleni launches clean up campaign

The City of Ekurhuleni has launched a clean up campaign aimed at addressing illegal dumping and maintaining green spaces in the municipality – particularly in the township.

The Clean Your Kasi, Manje Namhlanje campaign, was launched in Thembisa.

Addressing the campaign launch, MMC for Environmental Resource and Waste Management, Leshaka Manamela, said: “It cannot be right that we claim to love cleanliness and the environment yet we do not take care of it. Let us all join forces and look after the environment so it can also look after us. We need the environment for our existence and it must be well looked after.”

The city said it will roll out several activations “focused on cleaning up illegal dumping and maintaining green spaces, mainly in the townships”.

“These initiatives will be complemented by educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal and community involvement in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.”

MMC Manamela emphasised the importance of the campaign in his address, saying it is not just a campaign - it aims to promote greater cooperation with residents and communities to look after their immediate environment.

“We are taking a stand against illegal dumping and unattended grass in our townships. It’s time for action, now and today.” – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 09:43

141 views

19 January 2024

Traffic official arrested for alleged R15 000 bribe

Location: News

Traffic official arrested for alleged R15 000 bribe

The Hawks' Bellville-based serious corruption investigation team have arrested Renay Claudine Ruiters for acts corruption.

Ruiters, 47, is a traffic official who allegedly extorted R15 000 from a person whom she arrested for driving under the influence of liquor in September 2023.

The matter was brought to the attention of the Hawks and the arrest was effected on Wednesday.

Ruiters is out on R1000 bail after she briefly appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate's Court. The matter is postponed to 05 April 2024 for further investigation.

Head of the Hawks in the Western Cape, Major General Mathipa Makgato, appreciated the arrest as law enforcement officials are mandated to uphold and enforce the law.

He said this would hopefully send a strong message to other law breakers. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 09:33

413 views

19 January 2024

Deadline for comments on review of Coastal Waters Discharge Allow extended

Location: News

Deadline for comments on review of Coastal Waters Discharge Permit extended

An extension has been granted to allow the public to submit their comments on the review of Coastal Waters Discharge Permits issued to fish processing facilities operating within St Helena Bay in the Western Cape.

The notice calling for public participation was published in various newspapers on 23 November 2023, as well as on the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s (DFFE) website.

The date for submissions has been extended to 29 February 2024.

“The review process of the Coastal Waters Discharge Permits (CWDPs) aims to amend inconsistencies in the conditions of the CWDPs to establish uniformity and ensure gradual and consistent improvement of water quality in St Helena Bay over a five-year period.

“Persons or entities who discharge, or intend to discharge, effluent from land-based sources are required to obtain a CWDP or a General Discharge Authorisation from DFFE,” the department said on Friday.

This is according to Section 69 of the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act 24 of 2009 (ICM Act) which regulates pollution that originates from land-based sources.

Four fish processing establishments (FPEs) in St Helena Bay, namely Lucky Star, West Point Processor, Pioneer Fishing and Amawandle, have historically been discharging effluent into coastal waters using CWDPs obtained prior to the enforcement of the ICM Act.

“The review process intends to set effluent discharge limits based on the 90th percentile of the FPEs' effluent monitoring results from January 2022 to December 2022. Subsequently, the effluent improvement limits will mandate a 20% annual enhancement of interim limits for all FPEs.

“To achieve these improvements and meet the stricter limits, the FPEs will be required to upgrade their infrastructure. Members of the public, including interested and affected stakeholders, are encouraged to take advantage of this extension to make valuable contributions and submissions,” the department said.

Inputs can be delivered by hand to:

The Director: Coastal Pollution Management

Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

1 East Pier Building, East Pier Road

V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

Attention: Dr Yazeed Peterson

They can also be emailed to fpp@dffe.gov.za.

Copies of the current CWDPs, together with proposed amendments, can be downloaded from the department’s website at https://www.dffe.gov.za/permits/coastalwatersdischarge or obtained via email from rmolale@dffe.gov.za.

Hard copies of these documents can be obtained from any of the four FPF companies mentioned above. Any enquires may be directed to Rueben Molale on 021 819 2493. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 09:35

362 views

19 January 2024

Suspect to appear in court for possession of unlicensed firearms, ammunitions

Location: News

Suspect to appear in court for possession of unlicensed firearms, ammunitions

A man is due to appear in the Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrate's Court today following his arrest for possession of unlicensed firearms with ammunition, as well as for contravention of the Firearm Control Act of South Africa.

A multi-disciplinary team consisting of members from the Mpumalanga Provincial Organised Crime, Criminal Record Centre, Provincial Designated Firearms Officers, Elukwatini Detectives, VISPOL, as well as officials from the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) played a major role in the breakthrough.

According to a report, information was received by law enforcement agencies regarding a firearms cache stored by an old man inside a house at Elukwatini.

Further information indicated that the man, 67, was in some way part of a certain security company but was suspected to be non-compliant.

The team coordinated their resources to establish if he was compliant to the PSIRA regulations. As a result, the team paid him a visit at Elukwatini on Thursday afternoon.

A search warrant was obtained and upon arrival at the premises as per information provided, the law enforcement agencies conducted a search.

The members discovered a total of about 106 firearms as well as 1704 various assorted live rounds of ammunition.

Among the weapons found in the house are 14 rifles, eight shot guns, 84 pistols with ammunition, 718 9mm pistols, about 921 live rounds of ammunition for a rifle and 65 live rounds of ammunition for a shotgun.

It is further reported that the firearms were not kept inside a safe but rather stored underneath a bed while some were kept inside the wardrobe.

The members discovered that licences for some of the firearms, owned by a certain security company had already expired. The male suspect could not account for about 20 firearms.

In addition, the members established that he did not have licences for four pistols, which had ammunition hence he was arrested and charged accordingly. Part of the probe is to determine how he got hold of the firearms. Police investigations are continuing.

The firearms as well as the ammunition were confiscated for further investigation.

As a norm in the police, the confiscated firearms will undergo ballistic testing to determine any linkages to crimes committed in the country.

At this stage, police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges against the suspect as the investigation continues, in relation to contravention of the Firearms Control Act.

Meanwhile the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, has welcomed the arrest of the suspect as well as the recovery of the firearms with ammunition.

"Indeed the proliferation of firearms remains a thorn in the flesh in our endeavour to win the battle against crime.

“Therefore when we succeed in recovering these firearms as well as arresting suspects, it gives us courage that we are really moving towards the right direction whilst removing firearms from the wrong hands. We commend the whistle blowers and members for the job well done," said the General. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 09:54

325 views

19 January 2024

Tax Ombud secures taxpayer’s refund and interest of more than R135 000

Location: News

Tax Ombud secures taxpayer’s refund and interest of more than R135 000

The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) does not only help speed up the resolution of taxpayer complaints and gets the South African Revenue Services (SARS) to pay monies due.

According to OTO, there are also instances where it secures them thousands of rands worth in interest.

The Ombud has cited the latest case involving a complaint about SARS’ “repeated” inability to finalise a taxpayer’s verification of the 03/2023 value-added tax (VAT) declaration.

“The OTO investigated the complaint and discovered that the taxpayer had filed the VAT return on 14 April 2023, reflecting a refund of R5 398 613.44.

“The return was selected for verification and the taxpayer uploaded the supporting documentation requested, all on the same day. SARS, however, did not request additional information or finalise the verification within the turnaround time of 21 business days,” the OTO explained.

As a result, the taxpayer complained to the SARS Complaints Management Office in May last year.

However, according to the statement, SARS proceeded to request additional information in June 2023.

“After the taxpayer submitted the documentation on 20 June 2023, SARS again did not finalise the verification within 21 business days. The taxpayer complained with the OTO on 7 August 2023, and the complaint was accepted on 11 August 2023.”

The office recommended that SARS finalise the verification of the 03/2023 VAT declaration and pay out the refund with interest if applicable or provide valid reasons for not doing so.

Meanwhile, the verification of the 03/2023 VAT declaration was finalised in August 2023.

Although SARS issued an additional assessment, the OTO stated that a refund of R4 255 398.20 was paid in September last year and the taxman paid the taxpayer interest of R135 152.62 the following month.

The Ombud explained that if a VAT refund is not paid out within 21 business days, SARS is obliged to pay interest at a prescribed rate on the amount refundable.

“There are, however, certain circumstances that will delay the accrual of interest. Where for instance a taxpayer submitted a defective or incomplete return, where SARS requested information from the taxpayers about the return in question, or where a taxpayer did not provide SARS with confirmed banking details,” the statement read.

The OTO said the 21 business days will only start counting on the date on which the taxpayer provides SARS with the correct return, information or banking details.

“It is therefore extremely important for taxpayers to ensure that they act promptly to comply with SARS’s requests.”

The OTO’s services are free, and the organisation continues to make a massive difference in taxpayers’ lives with tax complaints against SARS. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 10:54

286 views

19 January 2024

Matric 2023 class secure their results

Location: News

Matric 2023 class get their results

Learners of the matric Class of 2023 are visiting their old schools today to collect their results, while others are checking newspapers and online systems to see how they have performed.

The class achieved a national pass mark of some 82.9% as announced by Department of Basic Education (DBE) Minister Angie Motshekga on Thursday.

More than 890 000 fulltime and part-time candidates sat for 66 papers in the final year National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams for 2023.

In a post on X following the top achievers’ breakfast held on Thursday, top learner Ziphozenkosi Mntambo told the department that at first, she could not believe that she was one of South Africa’s outstanding matriculants for 2023.

“When I got the news that I was called to be here…I thought that it was a scam and I didn’t believe it.

“I feel like I am the cherry on top of the cake and I truly am because I am here [at the top achievers awards ceremony] and I proved it with the marks I got from the exams,” Mntambo said.

Parents of another top achiever, Jean and Lientjie Goodey, said: “We are extremely thankful to have our son as a top achiever. It is only through hard work that he was able to make it this far.”

Matric results can be checked in the following ways:
•   The DBE’s online system at https://www.education.gov.za/MatricResults/ExamResults.aspx
•   Dialling *120*45856# on your cell phone and following the prompts
•   Matriculants based in Gauteng can access https://results.gauteng.gov.za/

At the results announcement on Thursday evening, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga told those who have not succeeded not to despair.

“There are lots of life chances available. For instance, those who wish to improve their results, should enrol for the Second Chance Matric Programme. Registration into the Programme is already open and will close on 20 February 2023.

“You will definitely receive support from the DBE and our partners. I wish you all the best in your youthful lives!! Choose your careers wisely and pursue them. This country wants to see you succeed,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 10:55

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19 January 2024

Deadline reminder for provisional taxpayers, trusts

Location: News

Deadline reminder for provisional taxpayers, trusts

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has reminded individual taxpayers and trusts that are provisional taxpayers, to file their income tax returns for the 2023 tax year as the deadline is around the corner.

The 2023 year of assessment refers to the period between 01 March 2022 to 28 February 2023. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, 24 January 2024.

“SARS has made it easy for taxpayers to comply through online filing solutions. The personal income tax return (ITR12) and trust income tax return (ITR12T) may be obtained on eFiling while an appointment with a SARS branch may be made on the SARS website. Taxpayers are encouraged to refer to the SARS website for further information on their tax obligations, trusts, tax filing season 2023 and provisional tax.

“SARS is taking a zero-tolerance approach to taxpayers not registering for the applicable tax, not filing tax returns, not making accurate declarations in their tax returns and failing to make payments due to SARS where applicable. Non-compliance with these obligations is a criminal offence and will attract penalties and interest,” SARS said on Thursday.

A provisional taxpayer is any person who receives income or to whom income accrues, other than remuneration.

A Trust is included under the definition of a “person” in terms of the Income Tax Act, no.58 of 1962 and is therefore regarded as a taxpayer.

“All trusts are required to file a tax return annually, including those that are not economically active. A trustee is the representative taxpayer of a trust and is liable to file on behalf of the trust or appoint a registered tax practitioner to do so,” SARS said.

As of the 2023 year of assessment, trustees are required to submit mandatory supporting documents during the filing process.

These documents include amongst others, the trust instrument, annual financial statements, letters of authority, resolutions/minutes of trustee meetings and an organogram depicting the beneficial ownership of the trust.

Additionally, beneficiaries of trusts are required to declare their income, including income derived from a trust, in their personal income tax returns. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 09:24

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19 January 2024

Well done to the Class of 2023

Location: News

Well done to the Class of 2023

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the unprecedented success recorded by the matric Class of 2023 is evidence of the determination and ambition of learners and of a nation that values its youth.

The President offered his warm congratulations and that of government to the matriculants and the extended support system of educators, parents, school governing bodies and health care providers who carried this cohort of learners through the COVID 19 pandemic when they were in earlier grades.

The 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) overall pass rate reached 82.9%, compared with 80.1% in 2022, and 76.4% in 2021.

This is an improvement of 2.8%, and 6.5% from the pass rates achieved by the Classes of 2022 and 2021 respectively.

In real numbers, 572 983 candidates passed the 2023 NSC exams.

As a percentage, the 2023 pass is the highest in the history of the NSC.

Similarly, Bachelor passes as well as passes with distinction produced by the Class of 2023 stand out as the highest in the history of NSC exams.

“The Class of 2023 has given itself and the nation great cause for pride and belief that our investment in education is the key to moving our country forward.

“The 2023 matric results show that we’re a nation that takes care of its young people and that our young people are taking care of their future through their resilience and their dedication to learning.

“The matric results are an irrefutable indicator of our comprehensive national development during 30 years of freedom and democracy. Our success in education must motivate us to achieve even greater things in all areas of our development,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 12:53

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19 January 2024

Immediate and comprehensive ceasefire required in Gaza – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Immediate and comprehensive ceasefire required in Gaza - President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated South Africa’s unequivocal call for an “immediate and comprehensive ceasefire” in Gaza, Palestine.

The President on Friday delivered the country statement of South Africa during the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit being held in Uganda.

The Israeli-Palestinian war erupted in October 2023 when militant group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel – killing at least 1200 people.

The Israeli retaliation on Palestine has been far greater with estimates that more than 20 000 Palestinians have been killed with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reporting the internal displacement of some 1.9 million people in Gaza.

“South Africa calls for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza. We call for the release of all hostages and the resumption of talks on a just solution that will end the suffering of the Palestinian people. We further call for unhindered and expanded humanitarian access to allow for vital aid and basic services to meet the needs of everyone living in Gaza.

“As a consequence of the ever-worsening situation of the people of Gaza, South Africa has asked the International Court of Justice to issue provisional measures ordering Israel to stop its military campaign in Gaza. This is necessary to protect against further, severe and irreparable harm to the rights of the Palestinian people,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President said the ongoing conflict lays bare the “inadequacy” of global governance organisations such as the United Nations (UN).

“South Africa recently made financial contributions to the UN Relief and Works Agency and the UNHCR [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] to support their humanitarian operations in Gaza and the broader Palestinian refugees. In addition, many ordinary South Africans and NGOs have mobilised resources to assist the people of Gaza.

“The conflict has again illustrated the inadequacy of the United Nations, in particular the UN Security Council, in maintaining international peace and security. We should establish a system of global governance that is fair and equitable, and has the capacity to respond to the needs of all persons in situations of threat and harm,” he said.

World challenges

Fixing attention on the Summit, President Ramaphosa said the gathering takes place at a time when international challenges – “exacerbated by geopolitical dynamics and conflicts in various regions of the world” – are abound.

“The wars taking place in Ukraine and Palestine are causing grave humanitarian and health crises and contributing to international instability. The supremacy of multilateralism as embodied by the United Nations Charter and international law is being undermined exactly when it is needed most.

“At a time when the world appears to be once again divided between east and west, the Non-Aligned Movement should continue to assert its independence based on our common values.

“South Africa remains steadfast in advancing its non-aligned approach in the maintenance of international peace and security and advocating for inclusive dialogue and the peaceful political settlement of disputes,” he said.

President Ramaphosa called on the NAM to work together in pursuance of:

the right to self-determination of the peoples of Palestine and Western Sahara;
the lifting of the economic blockade against Cuba and unilateral sanctions against Iran, Venezuela and Zimbabwe;
reaffirmation of the inalienable right of access to nuclear materials, equipment and technology for peaceful purposes;
upholding the centrality of the UN Charter and international law in the peaceful resolution of conflict;
defeating the scourge of terrorism and its root causes; and,
the alleviation and eradication of poverty and underdevelopment.

“This interconnected world calls for a collective determination to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and to address the economic, social, health and environmental challenges that every country faces.

“We need to give dedicated attention to the reform of global governance institutions, including the United Nations. We must give meaning to the principle of sovereign equality of nations and ensure that the voice of the African Continent and the Global South is strengthened in the broader multilateral system,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 13:03

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19 January 2024

President Ramaphosa travels to Uganda for NAM and G77 summits

Location: News

President Ramaphosa travels to Uganda for NAM and G77 summits

President Cyril Ramaphosa has travelled to Kampala in Uganda to attend the 19th Non Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit.

The two-day NAM Summit is being held under the theme “Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence”.

According to the Presidency, the summit is the highest decision making body of the NAM.

“The summit is also the occasion when the movement formally rotates its Chair to the Head of State of the host country of the summit, who then holds office until the next summit. Azerbaijan has been the Chair since 2019 and will hand over the position to Uganda in 2024 for the next three years (2024-2027).

“The Government of Uganda has identified five focus areas and priority goals of its Chairship and they are: regional and international peace and security; the international fight against terrorism; international migration and humanitarian crises; human trafficking and drug smuggling; as well as Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals,” the Presidency said.

The summit is expected to adopt a Final Outcome Document, the Kampala Declaration and the NAM Ministerial Declaration on Palestine.

“With its 120 member states, the NAM is the largest grouping of countries outside of the UN, making it an important roleplayer in global and multilateral affairs.

“Since its inception in 1961, the movement has played a crucial and obvious political role in representing the interests of developing countries, particularly in the eradication of colonialism, supporting struggles for liberation and self-determination, the pursuit of world peace and the search for a more equitable and just global order,” the Presidency said.

Following the conclusion of the NAM Summit, the President – accompanied by Department of International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor – is expected to attend the Group of 77 (G77) Third South Summit also to be held in Uganda.

That summit will be held under the theme “Leaving No One Behind” and is aimed at boosting South-South cooperation, including in the areas of trade, investment, sustainable development, climate change, poverty eradication, and digital economy.

“The Group of 77 plus China is the largest negotiating bloc of developing countries in the United Nations, which provides the means for the countries of the South to articulate and promote their collective economic interests and enhance their joint negotiating capacity on all major international economic issues within the United Nations system, and promote South-South cooperation for development.

“South-South cooperation remains an important pillar for strengthening the economic independence of countries of the South as a complement and not a replacement to North-South cooperation. South Africa participates in the work of the G77 to ensure its strength, unity and cohesion in pursuit of the vision of a fair and equitable multilateral system,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 10:06

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19 January 2024

Condolences for Violet Siwela

Location: News

Condolences for Violet Siwela

Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has paid tribute to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development, Violet Siwela, for serving the committee with distinction.

In a statement on Thursday, Ndabeni-Abrahams expressed her heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, comrades and her political home, the African National Congress.

“Her sad passing marks the end of a life that was selflessly dedicated to serving the people of South Africa, in particular the informal traders, cooperatives, micro, small and medium enterprises ecosystem.

“Inspired by her proud legacy, we pledge to continue working tirelessly to ensure the growth and sustainability of small businesses. In her name and in honour of her legacy, we commit to ensure that the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill is passed,” the Minister said.

The Bill seeks to amend the National Small Enterprise Act to provide for the establishment of the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA) and the subsequent disestablishment of the Small Enterprise Financing Agency (Sefa), the Co-operative Banks Development Agency (CBDA) and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda); and for the establishment of the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service.

The Bill further enables the Minister to declare certain practices in relation to small enterprises to be prohibited as unfair trading practices and to make regulations with regard thereto.

“The successful passing of this Bill will be a fitting tribute to her commitment, dedication and passion for small business development,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 10:50

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18 January 2024

Matrics of 2023 design history!

Location: News

Matrics of 2023 make history!

The Matric Class of 2023 have achieved a pass rate of 82.9% - the highest pass rate in the history of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.

More than 890 000 full-time and part-time candidates sat for the matric exams administered by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) at the end of 2023.

At the release of the 2023 National Senior Certificate examination results on Thursday, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said 572 983 candidates passed the 2023 NSC exams.

“It should be noted that while the pass rate of the 2023 NSC exams in number is the second highest in the history of the NSC exams, when expressed as a percentage, the pass rate of the 2023 NSC exams is the highest in the history of the NSC so far. This represents 572 983 candidates who passed the 2023 NSC exams.

“When expressed in number, it is the second highest pass rate in the history of the NSC examinations. The Class of 2023's achievement is an improvement of 2.8% and 6.5% from the pass rates achieved by the Classes of 2022 and 2021, respectively,” the Minister said.

The Minister commended the improvement of the education sector over the past 10 years, with Grade 12 learners notably achieving an 80.1% pass rate in 2022, and 76.4% in 2021.

The provincial rankings for the 2023 results are as follows:

Free State is the leading province at 89.0%, an increase of 0.5% from 2022.
KwaZulu-Natal, which is the third best improved province, achieved 86.4%, an increase of 3.4% from 2022.
Gauteng achieved at 85.4%, an increase of 1.0% from 2022.
North West achieved at 81.6%, an increase of 1.8% from 2022.
Western Cape achieved 81.5%, an increase of 0.1%from the previous year.
The Eastern Cape is the second most improved province, with a pass rate of 81.4%, an improvement of 4.1% from the previous year.
The best improved province is Limpopo, with an achievement of 79.5%, a 7.4% improvement from the previous year.
Mpumalanga achieved at 77.0%, a 0.2% increase from the previous year.
Northern Cape achieved at 75.8%, a 1.6% increase from 2022.

Achievements

The Class of 2023 also scored the highest Bachelor passes – which allow candidates to apply for university Bachelor’s degree studies – in the history of the NSC, with 40.9% of candidates attaining that achievement.

Diploma level passes stand at some 27.2% of candidates. Higher Certificates are at 14.8%, while those who passed with a National Senior Certificate stands at 0.01%.

Motshekga praised the Class of 2023 for defying what she called “astronomical challenges” – including the COVID-19 pandemic during their high school years - to reach the milestone.

“There is no doubt that the basic education system has begun to reach the desired stability, which is healthy for a large and important system as ours.

“The unquestionable resilience our school community has shown against such a devastating pandemic and other challenges, such as sporadic service delivery protests, the floods in some provinces, violence, and the general moral decadence, such as alcohol and substance abuse, cannot go by unnoticed,” she said.

The Minister emphasised that the improved pass rate is a clear indication that cooperation from all spheres of the sector can enable learners to perform at their best.

“Clearly, the system cannot survive without the direct involvement of all communities of trust, not only those who are part of the sector, but everyone.

“The Class of 2023 has clearly demonstrated that with all requisite support and intervention programmes, we can make it. We must prioritise our interventions on teaching and learning losses. Support and intervention programmes must be implemented across the system,” Motshekga said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 01/18/2024 - 20:58

5724 views