SA News

10 November 2023

Eskom’s Hex Battery Energy Storage System is a step in the correct direction

Location: News

Eskom's Hex Battery Energy Storage System is a step in the right direction

Projects like Eskomâs Hex Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Worcester in the Western Cap can assist the country in ending load shedding.

This is according to Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan who said these kinds of projects create hope that sooner rather than later, South Africa is going to overcome the challenge of load shedding.Â

Minister Gordhan was delivering remarks at the launch of Eskomâs Battery Energy Storage System at the Hex substation in the Breede Valley Municipality.

The project â which was launched on Thursday - is a first in Africa.Â

âIf we do more of these kinds of projects in other parts of the country, which is what Eskom intends to do, we will see the end of load shedding pretty soon. Today, after a few hiccups, you see in live form, the launch of this BESS project right in front of us. It is a great achievement for Eskom and the country.Â

âEskom is demonstrating that it can have a sense of urgency, it can have an important quality that we all need in South Africa and elsewhere â which is the ability to innovate and create new ways of doing things. And not just think about them, but concretely deliver them. That is the key,â the Minister said.Â

BESS is a giant step in the right direction to support the Just Energy Transition (JET) programme for boosting green energy as a renewable alternative source. As renewable energy begins to grow, so does the demand for the installation of Battery Energy Storage Systems.

The Hex battery storage project is the first part of Eskomâs Battery Energy Storage System rollout scheduled for construction in the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Easter Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

Through these kinds of projects, the Minister said, the country will grow economically and be able to create more jobs.Â

âWe are going to get more investments, not just in the Western Cape but the whole country. Our younger people can look toward to a much better life than those of us that have lived through the last few decades.

âSo, this is an opportunity to demonstrate to our own people and citizens, and the globe, that South Africans are innovative, and can deliver world class solutions like the one that we actually see today,â he said.Â

The Minister emphasised that it is important that focus is placed on what is best for the country, and what is best for the people of the country, and not for the few individuals who want to become rich as a result of these projects.Â

Quoting the recent Census results, Gordhan said that there are 62 million people who must be beneficiaries of these sorts of projects and of the work that is being done.Â

The Minister reiterated governmentâs aim which is to have enough electricity or energy security in this country.

âSo, there must be a reserve, just like you have in a savings account for a day when you need some cash. In the same way, you need an energy savings account because you donât know when you are going to need extra energy.Â

âRight now, we have a shortage. We need to get to a point where we have a surplus. And we need to continue keeping that surplus. And Eskom as an institution is going to play a crucial part in developing that surplus through the investment of the private sector in renewables and other forms of energy,â the Minister said.Â

He explained that the 120 battery banks cost a fair amount of money - R830 million - and during the construction 255 residents of the greater Worcester area were employed.Â

He said they must take the experience and the lessons that will be learnt from this project and use it elsewhere, to make whatever changes that are necessary to have more successful projects in the remaining provinces.Â

Minister Gordhan extended his gratitude to the funders. He said that without the concessional funding that they have for Eskom from the World Bank, African Development Bank, and the New Development Bank, they would not have been able to prosecute this project.

He also thanked Hyosung Heavy Industries, who supplied the batteries. The Minister further thanked Eskom for thinking about this idea and for researching the idea. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 10:40

347 views

10 November 2023

Government launches project to eliminate litter

Location: News

Government launches project to eliminate litter

Government has unveiled an initiative aimed at clearing the 7 251 illegal dumping hotspots in communities across the country â a project which has created more than 37 000 work opportunities.

The Municipal Cleaning and Greening initiative will be implemented in 14 prioritised municipalities across the nine provinces through the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environmentâs Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) mass employment In-House Model, which allows it to implement and manage projects using its own staff.

âThe impact of the 37 049 EPWP participants is visible across the country since their work includes daily cleaning streets, clearing illegal dumping sites, cleaning coastal areas and the revitalization of parks,â Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy said on Friday.

She made these remarks during the launch of the departmentâs mass employment programme to augment the Cleaning and Greening initiative in Motherwell, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (NMBMM), Gqeberha.

As of 30 September this year, 1 299 or 19 percent of the sites have been cleared.

âIllegal dumping poses a health hazard to communities and undermines community morale and good governance. From an environmental perspective, illegal dumping poses serious risks to livestock, wetlands, rivers and marine and coastal areas.

âAs the world moves to find more effective ways to combat plastic pollution, our government is taking more significant steps to improve municipal waste collection, ensure landfill compliance and promote waste recycling,â Creecy said.

The initiative is targeted at cleaning up illegal dump sites in provincial capitals including the City of Cape Town, Sol Plaatjie, Mafikeng, Msunduzi, Polokwane, City of Joburg, City of Ekurhuleni, City of Tshwane, Mogale City, Sedibeng, Mbombela and Mangaung.

In some instances, the cleaning and greening projects have rehabilitated wetlands which are important not only for spiritual or economic reasons but for their ecosystem services as well.

âHere in Nelson Mandela Bay we have identified 512 sites that require cleaning and today we show you some of the 41 sites where we have already begun our work.

âWe assisted the municipality to find the budget to purchase a specialised fleet for waste collection; ensured additional refuse collection in to the un-serviced poor areas; supported improvements to waste disposal facilities and worked with the municipality to clear 41 illegal dumping hot spots,â the Minister said.

The greater clean-up programme across the Eastern Cape is creating a total of 8 000 work opportunities.

Municipalities that are part of this programme include Buffalo City Metro and municipalities that fall under Alfred Nzo, OR Tambo, Amatole, Chris Hani, Sarah Baartman and Joe Qabi District Municipalities.

âThe Municipal Cleaning and Greening programme is a partnership with provinces and municipalities who assist in recruiting our public works participants and also provide protective clothing, and cleaning materials while we provide the stipend to all participants,â the Minister said.

To ensure sustainability of the programme, the cleaning and greening initiative includes planting trees in the rehabilitated dumping sites.

âWe are planting both indigenous trees, in line with the water scarcity of the country, and the fruit trees to contribute towards food security. Communities are responsible for maintaining the trees within their households.

âThis initiative is supported by assisting communities to understand the environmental and food security role of trees. A total of 225 000 trees will be planted by government throughout the country during this financial year, with 3000 committed for the Nelson Mandel Bay.â

As total of 2000 trees have been planted and the remaining 1000 will be planted over the next few months.

âThe department fully acknowledges that part of the solution to the problem is to change societal attitudes and behaviour and to mobilise the public to begin taking charge and responsibility for keeping their neighbourhoods clean. However, we must also acknowledge that where municipalities have inadequate household waste collection the problem of dumping increases,â the Minister said.

Since the initiation of this programme, the department has processed applications for the specialised waste management vehicles from over 100 municipalities across the country.

In the last two years, government has spent over R164 million to buy 44 waste collection vehicles and 21 landfill management waste vehicles for 58 municipalities. â SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 11:29

188 views

10 November 2023

Law catches up with KwaZulu-Natal man

Location: News

Law catches up with KwaZulu-Natal man

The long arm of the law finally caught up with Gugulethu Wesley Madonsela, who has been on the run for 34-years.

The Durban Regional Court on Thursday convicted and sentenced the 53-year-old to 10 years direct imprisonment for the murder of Siphelele Nxumalo, said the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks).

Nxumalo was approached by Madonsela and his accomplices who fired at him on a road on 2 February 1989.

âThey fired shots towards him and fled the scene. According to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report, Nxumalo was a United Democratic Front (UDF) activist when he was shot and killed by members of Chesterville A-Team during political conflict between the UDF and Inkatha supporters,â said the Hawks on Friday.

Nxumalo died of multiple gunshot wounds.

A case of murder was reported at the Cato Manor police station and Madonsela was later arrested. He appeared in court and was granted bail.

He then absconded and allegedly fled the country. A warrant of arrest was issued and the case docket was filed.

âMadonsela was on the run since then and he never appeared in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). In July 2023, he was traced and arrested by the Hawkâs Serious Organised Crime Investigation based in Durban that is assigned to deal with TRC cases in the province, then ultimately convicted and sentenced.â

The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General Advocate Godfrey Lebeya, has commended the work of the investigation and prosecution team that worked tirelessly on ensuring that Madonsela is arrested and prosecuted. âSAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 11:55

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10 November 2023

KZN positions to become a technological hub

Location: News

KZN positions to become a technological hub

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is accelerating efforts to roll out broadband across the province in order to ensure universal connectivity, and position the province as a technological hub.
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Speaking at the opening of the KwaZulu-Natal Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Summit, currently underway at the Durban Exhibition Centre, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube said as part of KwaZulu-Natal Digital Transformation Strategy, the province aims to deliver a citizen-centric plan which guides the leap to a digitally transformed society.Â

âOur strategy is awake to the reality that the province is currently only 27% connected and we have identified the need to accelerate the connectivity of the entire province. Among others, our Digital Transformation Strategy will aid government-to-government interaction across spheres, government-to-citizen interaction, and government-to-business interaction,â Dube-Ncube said.

Held from 09-10 November 2023, the summit brings together digital experts, including stakeholders and representatives from the public and private sectors to discuss and demonstrate the role of technology in improving operations, processes and service delivery for the benefit of the communities in KwaZulu-Natal.

The summit, which is hosted jointly with Vodacom Business and provincial government, is a unique platform for ICT experts, private sector and government leaders to engage and explore cutting-edge technology solutions designed to transform the business landscape.

Themed âMoving KZN Towards a Smart Provinceâ, the summit focuses on turning KwaZulu-Natal into a smart and technology connected province, which leaves no one behind.

Dube-Ncube highlighted that the province is hard at work, and currently rolling out Wi-Fi hotspots and Digi-centres in townships and rural centres, including libraries, schools, health youth zones, and community service centres.Â

Work done by the Office of the Premier includes the roll-out of a series of 4IR activations to install Wi-Fi hotspots that will enable schools and citizens to access internet as well as the training of 3 875 youth in four activated districts covering 16 areas.Â

âDigital hubs were installed at the schools to enable the learners to have access to equipment [and] teachers were also trained in data science to include in their schoolâs curriculum, to ensure the learners will be trained on areas of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.

âAll 164 provincial libraries have Wi-Fi connectivity and all hospitals and clinics are connected,â Dube-Ncube said.Â

The Premier emphasised the importance of building broadband infrastructure together with the private sector to improve the status of connectivity in the province.

âPartnerships between private and public sector are central and mutually beneficial. We welcome and appreciate the role that the private sector is playing in supporting our vision of positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a Smart Province,â Dube-Ncube said.

Vodacom Business has been working with the government on several connectivity solutions to help the province achieve its universal connectivity targets.

Meanwhile, the Department of Transport is in discussions with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) to investigate the implementation of an online registration system, which will be piloted in the uMgungundlovu and eThekwini Districts.

The provincial Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) has to date, spent almost R8.6 million in rolling out digital centres across the province. â SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 10:54

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10 November 2023

President congratulates Professor Dire Tladi

Location: News

President congratulates Professor Dire Tladi

President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his warm congratulations to Professor Dire Tladi of the University of Pretoria on his election by the United Nations as a judge of the International Court of Justice.

In May 2023, Cabinet endorsed Prof Tladiâs nomination by the South African government, together with South Africaâs membership on the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

President Ramaphosa said that Prof Tladiâs election as a judge of the International Court of Justice is an outstanding personal achievement in which the nation shares with great pride.

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

âWe wish Prof Tladi well as he prepares to contribute to the Court and its jurisprudence from the Palace of Peace in The Hague, Netherlands,â the President said in a statement on Friday.

The International Court of Justice is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN) and one of the six principal bodies of the UN.

The Courtâs role is to settle, in accordance with international law, legal disputes submitted to it by states and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorised United Nations organs and specialised agencies.

The Court comprises of 15 judges who are elected for terms of office of nine years by the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council.

Professor Tladi is a leading international law scholar whose accomplishments span different areas of the field, including academic, government service, diplomatic and practice.

He is Professor of International Law at the University of Pretoria and serves as President of the South African Branch of the International Law Association and Executive Member of the International Law Association.

He has served as Chair of the International Law Commission, an organ of the UN generally regarded as a feeder body for the International Court of Justice.

He was previously, a legal adviser of the South African Mission in New York and special adviser to South African Ministers of International Relations. â SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 09:20

137 views

10 November 2023

More officers to bolster police force to battle crime

Location: News

More officers to bolster police force to fight crime

Deputy President Paul Mashatile announced on Thursday that government is working around the clock to capacitate the police force which will see the country having 30 000 officers in the coming years as South Africa wages war against crime.Â

The Deputy President was responding to oral questions in the National Assembly on Thursday.

âThe [Police] Minister also announced that recruits are being enlisted to increase the capacity of the police in this regard. Ten thousand new trainees have already graduated and over the next financial years, additional trainees will graduate bringing the total number to 30 000 new police officers.âÂ

In addition, 1000 of the newly recruited personnel have been ring-fenced to include the capacity of public order policing (POP) which deals with crowd management issues and threats resulting from that.Â

The POP, he said, had by the end of October 2023 received an additional 4 000 members resulting from the recruitment drive.Â

In addition, as part of efforts to assess the progress government is making in implementing its programmes, the Deputy President said he and President Cyril Ramaphosa have been meeting Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Director-Generals and Heads of Departments.

âIn this regard, the President and I have had the opportunity to meet with the Minister, Deputy Minister and Commissioner of Police to brief us on the departmental plans to fight crime in the Republic of South Africa.â

He told Parliament that the Ministry was implementing Operation Shanela, a comprehensive plan to combat crime throughout the country.Â âThe plan includes clamping down on illegal mining areas.â

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has established specialised units to work with businesses, private security and state-owned entities (SOEs) to tackle illegal mining, the construction mafia, cable theft and the vandalism of economic infrastructure.

âI have confidence not only in Minister [Bheki] Cele, Deputy Minister [Cassel] Mathale and Commissioner [Fannie] Masemola but in all men and women in blue right to the lowest-ranking police officers who are committed to fighting and defeating crime in our communities.â

In addition, the countryâs second-in-command touched on the recently launched âCombating Crime through Decisive Police Action and Robust Community Involvementâ and the operationalisation of the increased Crime Prevention and Combating Action Plans through Operation Shanela.Â

These programmes, he said, are yielding results in the fight against crime in the country.

âWe will continue to work jointly with the private sector to invest in efforts to combat crime.âÂ

The Deputy President urged communities to continue to be involved in efforts to fight crime.Â

âThey must work with the police and expose the rotten apples within our police stations. Together we will win this fight. Letâs continue to build safer communities.â

Bills

Deputy President Mashatile also spoke about his role as Leader of Government Business.Â

He is responsible for tracking the procession of priority Bills and introducing measures to effectively monitor and improve the quality of legislation submitted by the Executive for approval.

In line with these responsibilities, a dedicated official from his office has been introduced to focus on tracking legislation as introduced by Cabinet.

It also means all Bills are tabled before the Cabinet Committee before being submitted to Cabinet for final approval.Â

âBills that do not meet the required standards are not submitted to Cabinet but sent back to the relevant departments for further work.â

He said he was pleased that that Cabinet approved 42 Bills on the 2023 legislative programme on 29 March 2023.Â

âAs of 26 October, 22 Bills on the 2023 legislative programme have already been introduced to Parliament.â â SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 15:43

137 views

9 November 2023

SA to host men’s conference on positive masculinity

Location: News

SA to host men’s conference on positive masculinity

South Africa is to host the 3rd African Union (AU) Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity later this month, which will provide an opportunity to consolidate bold continental efforts that Heads of State and other sectors have taken towards ending violence against women and girls (EVAWG) in Africa.

Convened under the theme: “Consolidating Commitments Towards the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls,” the conference is expected to take place in Johannesburg on 27 and 28 November 2023.

It will provide an important platform to assess progress made by male leadership across respective sectors and to articulate specific priorities to decisively end violence against women and girls on the continent.

Building onto the critical work undertaken in the previous conferences, the 3rd Men’s Conference will deepen the understanding of structural drivers to take firm actions towards addressing them.

A focus on deepening an understanding of structural drivers of violence against women and girls on the continent is four-fold, including:
• It serves to emphasise the importance of harnessing law and policy as instruments to accelerate changes that protect women and girls from violence and uphold their rights to life, security, freedom, dignity and physical and emotional integrity.
• It makes the strategic linkages between the lack of economic and financial inclusion with vulnerability to violence and as a form of structural violence itself.
• It develops an African compendium of evidenced-based interventions to prevent violence against women and girls.
• It provides a framework to deeply explore harmful social norms relating to masculinity and violence that have resulted in the normative character of violence – permissive societies across the continent.

It is envisaged that deepening the interlinkages between violence against women and girls, and the wider development challenges African societies face, drawing on both historic and current factors that shape these expressions, provides a deeper foundation from which Africa itself can craft relevant policy and programming responses.

The African Union High-Level Presidential Response to End Violence Against Women and Girls, was established in 2020 with a view to mobilise political commitment and action at the highest level of the AU leadership and decision-making to prevent and end violence against women and girls in Africa.

The 3rd Men’s Conference is co-hosted by 2023 AU Chairperson, President Azali Assoumani of the Union of Comoros and President Cyril Ramaphosa of the Republic of South Africa.

President Ramaphosa was unable to host the first conference during his chairmanship of the AU in 2020, due to COVID-19 pandemic.

During his tenure at the helm of the AU, President Ramaphosa highlighted violence against women and girls as a critical challenge impeding development across the continent, and called for the adoption of an AU Convention. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 11:55

438 views

9 November 2023

Home Affairs extends hours ahead of Voter Registration Weekend

Location: News

Home Affairs extends hours ahead of Voter Registration Weekend

To ensure that citizens are able to collect their IDs and passports ahead of the upcoming Voter Registration Weekend, Home Affairs offices will open this coming Saturday, 11 November 2023.

“The service to be rendered on 11 November 2023 is exclusively the collection of smart ID cards and passports,” said the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) on Thursday.

Home Affairs offices will be open from 8am until 1 pm. This as the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC)’s Voter Registration Weekend will be held from 18-19 November 2023.

To register to vote, you need a South African identity document – either a green barcoded ID book, an ID smartcard, or a valid temporary ID certificate.

According to the commission, all South African citizens aged 16 years or older can register to vote, but to vote you need to be 18 years or older.

In addition, to ease pressure on its clients, Home Affairs has introduced dedicated counters for collections in large offices that process Smart ID Cards and passports, where space allows. This will help in reducing queues.

Clients can now book collection appointments before visiting the offices, using the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS) which is available on the DHA website – www.dha.gov.za through this link: https://services.dha.gov.za/#/authenticate/identity.

The department also allows clients who may not have an opportunity to book appointments to visit as walk-ins and will be assisted to collect their IDs and passports.

ID services will also be available at all Home Affairs offices during the Voter Registration Weekend of 18 and 19 November 2023.

In this regard, operating hours at Home Affairs offices will be aligned with those of the IEC in order to assist voters who need to collect the IDs they have applied for or to apply for Temporary Identification Certificates.

With these documents, eligible voters will be able to register for the 2024 national and provincial elections. Temporary Identification Certificates are issued on the spot.

“We would like to urge all our clients who have applied for their identification documents and have been waiting for three weeks or more, to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents at their convenience on Saturday 11 November 2023 or on the weekend of 18-19 November 2023,” said the department. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 11:58

424 views

9 November 2023

KZN population increases by 21%

Location: News

KZN population increases by 21%

The 2022 Census results has showed an increase in the KwaZulu-Natal population by 21%, between 2011 and 2022.

The Census results, presented to the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Executive Council by Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke, showed that the population in the province increased from 10.2 million in the 2011 Census to 12.4 million in 2022.

The results showed that the eThekwini Municipality continues to record the highest population with 4.2 million followed by the uMgungundlovu District at 1.2 million.

The Census 2022 is the fourth population and housing count in post-apartheid South Africa, following the first count in 1996 and subsequent censuses in 2001 and 2011.

The KwaZulu-Natal province is the third to receive the results following the presentation made by Maluleke to President Cyril Ramaphosa. The results include information at national, provincial, district and municipal level.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube said the province - with 12 423 907 people - finds itself at number two sandwiched between Gauteng and the Western Cape.

Dube-Ncube said the growth of the province’s population meant that the Provincial Executive Council would have to stretch available resources.

“With more people and no extra financial resources to turn to, we are called upon to use our equitable allocation wisely, efficiently and effectively. We are already feeling the strain of this growth in our numbers on the provision of social security, basic services, jobs and the fight against poverty.

“We are approaching a turning point in the management of dwindling resources which have to address a growing if not steady demand, issues including the negotiated wage hikes, the social wage and even the unpredictability occasioned by climate change,” Dube-Ncube said.

She said knowing that KwaZulu-Natal households have the largest number of female-headed households, which is at 4.4%, meant that government needed to focus its energy and resources in programmes that benefit women.

Nationally, the Census 2022 results showed that the South African population has increased from 51.7 million in 2011 to 62 million in 2022.

Gauteng remained the province with the highest population of 15 million, while the Northern Cape has the smallest population at 1.3 million. About 56% of the country’s population lives in three provinces, including Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

The results showed that the Western Cape has moved from being the 5th largest province in terms of population size in 1996 to being the 3rd largest in 2022. Black Africans remain the dominant population group (81.4%), followed by Coloureds at 8.2%, Whites at 7.3% and Indians/Asians at 2.7%.

The results also showed a steady decline in the proportion of the White population, from 11% in 1996 to 7.3% in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 13:41

408 views

9 November 2023

Diphtheria outbreak at W Cape prison kills inmate

Location: News

Diphtheria outbreak at W Cape prison kills inmate

Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, announced on Thursday an outbreak of diphtheria disease at the Pollsmoor Correctional Centre in the Western Cape, which has since claimed one life.

A 19-year-old male inmate presented with diphtheria symptoms on 28 October and was referred to the local hospital for further medical care.

“Throat swabs were collected the same day for culture laboratory testing and the results returned positive five days later on 2 November. Unfortunately, his health condition continued to deteriorate until he regrettably passed away on 5 November,” a statement from the department said.

Diphtheria is a disease caused by bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheria.

The bacterium usually affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, causing respiratory and skin infections.

Public health measures have since been undertaken to bring the outbreak under control. These include contact tracing of inmates, correctional services staff, consulting healthcare workers and emergency services personnel.

Meanwhile, more tests were conducted with the 55 identified close contacts as part of the case investigation, of which eight inmates tested positive for this serious infection.

Of these, the department said, two of them presented mild symptoms, while the other six were asymptomatic.

“All patients including the deceased fall within the age group of 18 to 23 years old. Immediate contacts of the patients and the deceased have been put in isolation from the rest of the correctional centre section to prevent further spread of the disease.”

In addition, two staff members displayed symptoms compatible with diphtheria and have received treatment and are still waiting for their laboratory test results.

The Western Cape Department of Health, working with the Department of Correctional Services, has since embarked on a vaccination campaign in the affected section of the correctional centre.

The department said two laboratory-confirmed cases of diphtheria disease were recorded earlier in the year from an adult in KwaZulu-Natal and a child in the Western Cape.

Diphtheria, according to the department is an uncommon, but vaccine-preventable serious infection. The toxin may lead to difficulty in breathing, heart rhythm problems, and even death.

The bacteria spread from person to person, usually through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.

The symptoms of diphtheria include sore throat with the formation of a membrane on the tonsil and throat and swollen glands in the front of the neck.

Close contacts of known cases are at increased risk of infection, the department explained.

“Routine diphtheria vaccination is part of the childhood vaccine programme and parents are encouraged to get their children vaccinated.”

Healthcare workers are urged to maintain a high index of suspicion in order to ensure that cases are detected early, while all individuals are reminded of the importance of ensuring that they and their families are up-to-date with their vaccinations.

In South Africa, diphtheria-containing vaccine is offered to all children free of charge in public sector facilities at six, 10 and 14 weeks and 18 months as one component of the hexavalent jab.

“Booster doses are offered at six and 12 years, and to all Grade 5 learners in public schools during the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 15:05

614 views

9 November 2023

Police crackdown nets 13 and seizes firearms

Location: News

Police crackdown nets 13 and seizes firearms

Police have seized 18 firearms and ammunition following a shootout between two alleged security companies in Kagiso.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng said that 13 suspects were also arrested in Wednesday’s incident.

It is reported that, the police members from West Rand District attended to a shooting incident whereby upon arrival they found two groups of what is believed to be security companies affiliated to two different taxi associations shooting at each other.

“When the police approached, the occupants from the armoured vehicle started jumping out and fleeing on foot. Thirteen suspects were cornered and arrested while 13 riffles, four pistols including scores of ammunition and magazines were seized from the scene and one firearm was found hidden at a nearby filling station,” said the SAPS on Thursday.

Two people from one of the groups where injured during the shootout and were taken to hospital.

All seized firearms will be subjected to further investigations and ballistic testing to ascertain if they were not used in the commission of other serious and violent crimes.

The suspects are expected to appear before court soon on charges of attempted murder and the discharging of firearms in a municipal area. Police investigations continue. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 15:06

309 views

9 November 2023

Patel welcomes Ford’s further investment in SA

Location: News

Patel welcomes Ford’s further investment in SA

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel has welcomed the announcement made by Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) regarding the expansion of its production to include plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the Ford Ranger programme.

The move aligns with the global efforts to decarbonize energy-intensive industries and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"We commend Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa for their commitment to embracing cleaner energy solutions. This initiative not only supports our national efforts to combat climate change but also positions South Africa as a key player in the global shift towards sustainable transportation," the Minister said in a statement on Thursday.

Globally, the automotive sector has undergone significant changes, necessitating the adoption of cleaner technologies.

FMCSA's decision to invest an additional R5.2 billion (US$272 million) at the Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, Gauteng, for PHEV production demonstrates dedication to building world-class vehicles while contributing to a greener future.

The department said the implementation of relevant policies and legislation supporting the production and uptake of new electric vehicles (NEVs) is vital in encouraging the transition from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles (ICE) to clean and energy-efficient alternatives.

FMCSA's commitment to producing PHEVs aligns with the Ford+ global strategy, marking a significant milestone in the company's journey towards sustainable mobility.

Production of the Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid electric vehicles is expected to commence in the third quarter of 2024, and the vehicles manufactured at the Silverton Assembly Plant will be exported to over 100 markets globally, including the United Kingdom (UK) and European Union (EU) member states.

"We look forward to collaborating closely with Ford to establish the PHEV facility at the Silverton plant in Gauteng. This partnership will contribute to the future sustainability of the automotive sector and create a cleaner, greener environment for all," Patel said.

The sector is expected to receive a further boost once the Electric Vehicle White Paper is finalised by South Africa, which is expected during the current financial year. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 15:28

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9 November 2023

SA Military Ombud Office to host the 11th Annual Symposium

Location: News

SA Military Ombud Office to host the 11th Annual Symposium

The South African Military Ombud Office will gather different stakeholders and role players when they host the 11th Annual Symposium on Friday.

The symposium will be held under the theme: “The role of military ombud institutions in promoting human rights and administrative justice within the military in the African context”.

Military Ombud Lieutenant General (Ret) Vusumuzi Masondo will give a keynote address on the role that the Office plays within the armed forces.

Other speakers on the day will include Dr Moses Khanyile, Director CEMIS, Stellenbosch University; Grace Malera, Ombudsman, Malawi; Advcate Sipho Mantula, Researcher University of South Africa; Steven Ramafoko, Head Legal Services: Independent Police Investigative Directorate; Advocate Vasu Gounden, Founder and Executive Director ACCORD; Major General Eric Mnisi, Adjutant General of Defence Legal Services and Florence Kajuju, Ombudsman Kenya, among others.

Masondo said they had enlisted prominent speakers, ombudspersons and academics who are well conversant with the topics and global events relevant to the symposium.

“The broader objective of this symposium is to discuss the current and future context issues in Africa, the role of our armed forces and how its oversight can be enhanced.

“Furthermore, the discussion will attempt to map out the way forward and explore the possibilities of how the creation of regional and multilateral partnerships can aid in enhancing oversight,” he said.

The Office was created in 2012 with the mandate of investigating complaints by South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members and former members regarding their conditions of service.

Part of the mandate is also investigating the complaints from the members of the public regarding the official conduct of the SANDF when they are on duty. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 13:13

165 views

9 November 2023

SA a apt area for investment, says Zikalala

Location: News

SA a good place for investment, says Zikalala

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Sihle Zikalala, has assured investors that South Africa has put in place systems, structures and policies that are investor-friendly and is easing ways of doing business.

“As South Africa, we are a story of economic growth, hope and resilience to investors and social partners,” he told investors.

The Minister is on an official working visit in the United Kingdom, where he and a delegation are on a mission to promote South Africa as a preferred infrastructure investment destination.

“We are open for business and we guarantee your return on investments in a country that is continuously eliminating red tape, has economic stability, improving the ease of doing business and where the rule of law is jealously guarded by our democratic institutions and our courts,” Zikalala said in his address to over 500 global investors in London.

The Minister presented to investors a plethora of infrastructure investment opportunities in areas such as energy, water, transport and digital infrastructure.

He assured investors that President Cyril Ramaphosa is leading the charge for a corruption-free government which honours agreements and contracts with investors.

“The investor environment is one characterised by a commitment to ethics and running a corruption-free administration. An ethical state is essential to assuring investors that their investment is safe from abuse. In addition, we are very clear about the rules of engagement with no other hidden agendas.

“Despite our recent challenges which we are working hard to overcome, such as load-shedding, our economy remains resilient and has enhanced reforms, especially on financing large infrastructure projects where we have opened up space for public –private partnerships. We are mobilising private sector financing and skills to work with the government of South Africa to fast track delivery and improve contract and project management,” he said.

Policies

At Wednesday’s session, the Minister faced gruelling questions around some of the country’s transformation policies such as Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE), localisation and the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), which some perceive to be too bureaucratic and impacts on investor confidence.

The Minister responded by saying that the policies are critical in redressing South Africa’s economic disparities induced by the pain of its history which left many languishing on the fringes of the economy.

“The South African government is creating a new economic landscape and architecture which is premised on economic inclusion of most of the population.

“Our quest to address the socio-economic imbalances of the past should be no threat to investors but should be part of building a united and democratic South Africa that benefits all its citizens.

“This is a consensus that we have built as a country what we want to be non-racial, non-sexist and democratic with a prosperous population,” said the Minister.

Meanwhile, investors expressed excitement about the vast opportunities available in infrastructure investments.

The Minister invited the investors to visit South Africa and share the country’s major investment platforms such as the Presidential Infrastructure Investment Summit 2024 and the South Africa Construction Week and conference to be announced soon.

He believes the Global Africa Trade Conference is a lucrative opportunity to rebuild South Africa’s economy in the wake of a disruptive pandemic of COVID-19.

Zikalala is confident that the new frontiers of economic partnerships have been cemented. The Minister will be in the UK until Friday. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 08:57

352 views

9 November 2023

Former Transnet executives pension payouts interdicted

Location: News

Former Transnet executives pension payouts interdicted

The Special Tribunal has handed down an order interdicting the pension payouts of two former Transnet executives linked to fruitless and wasteful expenditure of about R33.5 million at the state-owned entity.

The two are former executive managers responsible for group business continuity and disaster management Lerato Mary Theresa Makenete and former executive manager for safety, Landela Hawkins Madubane. Their pension funds amount to some R8.9 million.

The application for the order was brought to the court by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the state-owned freight rail and logistics company.

“Transnet initiated and called on the support of the SIU to investigate this matter and requested the support of the SIU to expand and complete the investigations. An investigation by the SIU into the affairs of Transnet has revealed that Makenete and Madubane allegedly colluded with three service providers to abuse Transnet's emergency procurement process during COVID-19.

“During the emergency procurement…Transnet contracted Ramoyadi Air Conditioning, Ndzalo2 Trading and Eagles Ropes to deliver over a million disposable breathalyser straws. Makenete and Madubane allegedly colluded with suppliers to defraud Transnet by inflating the price of the straws from R0.29 per straw to R29.99 per straw, resulting in a total payment of R33 834 698.40,” the SIU and Transnet said in a joint statement.

The two institutions have initiated proceedings against Makenete and Madubane in an attempt recover the financial losses suffered by Transnet due to the overpayment and brought an application to review and set aside the contracts.

“Following the conclusion of the investigation, the SIU made disciplinary referral to Transnet against Makenete and Madubane. Transnet actioned the referral, however, they both failed to appear for disciplinary hearings, but the proceeding continued in their absence. The duo was found guilty and dismissed.

“[The] SIU refers any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 10:29

227 views

9 November 2023

Battle against illegal mining receives a boost

Location: News

Battle against illegal mining receives a boost

President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised the employment of 3 300 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) for service in cooperation with the South African Police Service to prevent and combat crime and maintain and preserve law and order under Operation Prosper.

“Members of the SANDF will, in cooperation with the South African Police Service, conduct an intensified anti-criminality operation against illegal mining across all provinces, from 28 October 2023 until 28 April 2024,” the Presidency said in a statement on Thursday.

The expenditure expected to be incurred for this deployment amounts to R 492 143 296.

The President set out the employment in a letter to the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Amos Masondo. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 10:44

84 views

9 November 2023

Strides being made to claw back against effects of State Capture

Location: News

Strides being made to claw back against effects of State Capture

While the remnants of State Capture continue to impact government and state coffers, progress is being made to bring those responsible to book.

This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was addressing the ongoing National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council’s (NACAC) National Dialogue in Gauteng.

President Ramaphosa highlighted that among the billions of Rands that have been retrieved from corrupt elements, at least nine separate court cases, involving 47 individuals and 21 companies, have been brought to court.

“Freezing orders amounting to R14 billion have been authorised by the Asset Forfeiture Unit and a total of R5.4 billion has been recovered and returned to the state. Government departments, municipalities and professional bodies are taking disciplinary action against individuals identified by the [State Capture] Commission.

“The South African Revenue Service has collected R4.9 billion in unpaid taxes as a result of evidence brought before the State Capture Commission. While there is a long road ahead, the fight against corruption is gaining momentum,” the President said.

He highlighted that over the last five years, significant resources have been invested to “rebuild the law enforcement agencies and other bodies that were devastated by state capture”.

“We appointed new leadership with the track record, integrity and capability to tackle crime and corruption. We are now in the process of developing legislation that will insulate the appointment and removal processes for key positions shown to be vulnerable to state capture.

“In 2018, we established the NPA Investigating Directorate to focus on state capture and other serious crimes. We established the Special Tribunal to enable the Special Investigating Unit to fast track the recovery of public funds.

“In November 2020, Cabinet adopted the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, whose six strategic pillars anchor the deliberations of this National Dialogue,” he said.

President Ramaphosa acknowledged that corruption has a significant impact not only on state coffers but in the belief that citizens have in government.

“All South Africans suffer…when goods, services and resources meant for public benefit are misappropriated, mismanaged and stolen and when that happens, it is the poor who suffer most.

“Corruption carries a huge opportunity cost…it imposes a huge burden on the lives of our people. Economic growth is stifled and businesses suffer. Development stalls and institutions across the board – both in the public sector and in the private sector – also fail.

“Corruption has wounded our democracy in a number of ways and has also shaken people’s faith in our institutions. If corruption is not curbed, arrested or stopped, the greatest damage will not be in the funds stolen…or the jobs lost. It will be in damaging our democracy,” he said.

Reflecting further on South Africa’s democracy – which will turn 30 years old in 2024 – President Ramaphosa said next year, both progress and failings will be acknowledged.

“We will…reflect on how far we have come as a country in improving the lives of our people…the quality of their lives and also…in entrenching a culture of democracy and human rights.

“We will reflect on the progressive policies that have enabled millions of our people to be lifted out of absolute poverty and that have provided…basic necessities which they didn’t have…such as housing, electricity, water and other basic services.

“We will also, at the same time, acknowledge where we have not achieved enough, where the expectations and aspirations of our people have not been met. As we consider the great achievements of our democracy, we must be forthright about one of the great weaknesses where we have fallen short and that is with regard to corruption,” the President said.

The President emphasised that the fight against corruption and crime should be taken up by all of society.

“When it comes to criminality, we have 95 000 police in our country [and] we are adding [more]. Between last year and this year we are going to be adding up to 30 000 even next year. But those police will never be in every household, they will never be in every street, they will never be in every locale.

“In the end, the fight against criminality is also a societal one. Quite often…as communities, we know the people that get involved in criminality…and we don’t speak out. It is up to us as well to speak out, to make sure that we root out criminality working together with the police where we become the eyes and the ears of our people as a whole.

“Similarly when it comes to corruption, it is our duty all of us. It is a societal challenge and I hope this summit is going to come up with a lot of strategies and measures that we need to take to push back on corruption and end corruption in South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 09:46

119 views

8 November 2023

Government to tackle plastic pollution with labour, plastic sector

Location: News

Government to tackle plastic pollution with labour, plastic sector

While government has made progress in tackling plastic pollution, it has committed to address the problem of plastic pollution in consultation with the plastic industry and organized labour as the sector sustains approximately 60 000 jobs.

Over the past two years, five registered extended producer schemes that support plastic waste collection and recycling have been registered in the country, resulting in the removal of 368 600 tons of plastic waste from the environment.

“It has supported between 60 000 and 90 000 waste reclaimers and it has promoted hundreds of public clean up and public education initiatives,” Minister of Forestry and Fisheries and Environmental Affairs Barbara Creecy said on Tuesday.

The Minister was addressing the National Stakeholder Consultation Session on the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee third session (INC-3) on the development of the international legally binding instrument on curbing plastic pollution taking place in Nairobi, Kenya.

“South Africa has a significant plastics industry that sustains approximately 60 000 formal jobs. Because of this we will ensure that as we approach the problem of plastic pollution and the measures necessary, we work in consultation with the plastics industry and organized labour.

“In the retail and fast-food space many outlets have substituted single use plastics with bio-degradable products. We now have regulatory requirements for re-cyclate content in plastic and black bags,” the Minister said.

Government’s initiatives to tackle plastic pollution have been done as part of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiatives, which is a key policy instrument to address the increasing volumes of plastic pollution.

The Minister said negotiations with the plastic sector must be guided by the following principles:

The first is that all decisions must be based on the best available science and what this science is telling us about the impact of certain products on the environment.
The second is there needs to be open and transparent sharing of information about the chemicals used in plastic production, given the various applications of plastics in food contact applications;
The third is that this new international legally binding instrument will likely result in the need for new regulatory controls on a domestic level;
The fourth issue is finance: should the international instrument lead to obligatory measures to curb plastic pollution, there will be a need for these measures to be supported by equally ambitious means of implementation. So developing countries will argue for a financial mechanism that would ensure predictable and adequate financial resources to assist in curbing plastic pollution in developing countries.

Last year, South Africa supported the development of an internationally legally binding instrument to combat plastic pollution at the Fifth Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly in the first quarter of 2022.

“At that time we recognised the threat plastic pollution poses to human health, ecosystem functioning, and the marine environment. In signing up for this process, we recognised our constitutionally imposed obligation to protect our environment and human health.

“Consequently, on the domestic front we understand that this requires a holistic approach that understands the full life-cycle of plastic manufacture, use, and disposal in the context of the National Waste Management Strategy, 2020,” the Minister said.

Accordingly, South Africa has focused on three aspects:

Supporting and strengthening municipal waste management services to prevent plastic leaking into the environment;
Developing extended producer responsibility schemes to collect, reuse and recycle plastic waste with the aim of promoting a circular economy in the plastic industry;
Promoting public awareness and clean up campaigns to remove plastic waste from rivers, wetlands, and beaches.

-SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 09:10

468 views

8 November 2023

SARS receives 7 million personal income tax returns

Location: News

SARS receives 7 million personal income tax returns

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has received seven million non-provisional returns from compliant taxpayers, who have fulfilled their legal obligations by filing their personal income tax (PIT) returns by the end of the Filing Season.

SARS has received a total of seven million returns from non-provisional taxpayers, compared to six million last year.

SARS said 88% of returns were processed online via the eFiling and MobiApp platforms; 93% of returns were processed in five seconds; 79% of refunds were processed in 72 hours, and more than R29 billion has already been paid in refunds.

SARS has also thanked taxpayers who made outstanding payments that were due.

“SARS Auto-Assessment is also gaining traction with four million taxpayers receiving assessments already calculated in the current year, up from three million the previous year.

“The rapid development of data science, algorithms, machine learning and the various third-party data sources has enabled SARS to provide taxpayers with a smooth and seamless service experience.

“While these digital platforms have been used to give the best service to compliant taxpayers, it has also allowed SARS to identify categories of non-compliant taxpayers,” SARS said on Tuesday.

SARS has seen an increase in the levels of compliance; however, it remains concerned about non-compliant taxpayers who have not submitted a return as required.

SARS has identified the following in relation to non-compliant taxpayers:

Registered taxpayers who have not, for whatever reason, filed a return;
Taxpayers who have not made a payment where it was due;
Taxpayers who are not registered as taxpayers, despite being economically active; and
Taxpayers who may in the past not have been required to file, but receive income from employment, investments, rental, or other income; certain taxpayers may also have received shares or have active business interests that push them above the income threshold, which means they have to file.

“Non-compliant taxpayers are reminded that they do face legal consequences for failing to register, file a return and/or make payments where applicable.

“These taxpayers are urged to regularise their tax matters as a matter of urgency and are encouraged to approach the Voluntary Disclosure (VDP) unit before SARS contacts them.

“If such a taxpayer’s VDP application reaches SARS after SARS has contacted them, the VDP option falls away and their applications will not be accepted. SARS is willing and ready to assist taxpayers who want to be compliant. Where taxpayers wilfully and intentionally ignore their legal obligations, SARS will act sternly,” SARS said.

SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter expressed his appreciation to compliant taxpayers who have discharged their legal obligations.

“Some taxpayers are intentionally non-compliant by making false declarations to SARS or plainly ignoring their legal obligations. Those who engage in such conduct must know that what they are doing is in fact not only a civil offence, but also a criminal offence, which will be met with the proportionate response. The courts have confirmed that SARS is acting lawfully by confronting non-compliance,” Kieswetter said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 09:27

621 views

8 November 2023

Patel unveils strategy charting the course for SA’s Global Business Services

Location: News

Patel unveils strategy charting the course for SA's Global Business Services

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel on Tuesday unveiled a forward-looking strategy charting the course for South Africa's Global Business Services (GBS) sector.

Patel made the announcement during his opening address at the annual BPESA [Business Process Enabling South Africa] GBS | BPO Conference, which took place in Cape Town.

Patel highlighted the sector's pivotal role in job creation and economic expansion, emphasising the vital partnerships between government, private sector and employees.

He noted the GBS sector's achievements, citing its contributions to job growth, geographic expansion and its impact on the national economy.

Government has invested more than R3 billion since 2016 in the sector, which currently employs more than 31 000 employees in firms receiving national government support, earning significant sums of foreign exchange to the country. The industry has a Sector Masterplan that drives its growth and development.

Patel outlined the next phase of the GBS sector, focusing on expanding operations across provinces and towns, with a strong emphasis on high-value services in services in Information Technology, finance, health, legal and retail.

The sector will need to address the challenges of artificial intelligence in consumer servicing markets. Underlining the importance of language and technical skills, he stressed the need to tap into South Africa's diverse talent pool and the country's robust customer service culture.

He noted a number of strengths in the local economy that international investors pointed to as reasons for choosing SA as a destination for their GBS-centres.

South Africa now services markets in the United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, Australia, China, Mauritius, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and France.

The sector was youth-focused, with 90% of employees being young people, and six out of ten employees being women.

“The face of the industry is female and young people, which fits in well with our national priorities,” Patel said.

Addressing the crucial issue of ethical sourcing, Patel acknowledged consumers' growing awareness of social and environmental conditions.

He emphasised the industry's commitment to ethical practices and called for improved social impact and strengthened labour relations and decent working conditions, in line with the principles enshrined in the South African constitution.

"Ethical sourcing presents both a market challenge and a tremendous opportunity. As consumers demand transparency in production conditions, we must showcase our strengths while enhancing their impact in local operations," Patel said.

With a government allocation of R569 million to the GBS sector this financial year, these initiatives mark a significant stride toward ensuring the sector's resilience, competitiveness and positive impact on both the national economy and the workforce. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 14:19

211 views

8 November 2023

Mchunu congratulates Rand Water on its Fitch rating

Location: News

Mchunu congratulates Rand Water on its Fitch rating

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has lauded Fitch Ratings affirmation of Rand Water's National Long-Term rating at 'AA+ (zaf), with a Stable Outlook.

Rand Water is an entity of the Department of Water and Sanitation that provides bulk water supply services to more than 16 million people in Gauteng and parts of Mpumalanga, the Free State and North West provinces of South Africa.

The Fitch Ratings released a statement on 6 November 2023, detailing the key rating drivers, further stating the elements that would result in a Negative Outlook rating, which include "...if significant water losses (within municipalities water distribution network) contributes to lower profitability and increasing municipality arrears".

In his congratulatory message, Mchunu said the department is proud of Rand Water’s rating by Fitch, which reaffirms that the entity has a long-term positive and stable outlook.

Mchunu said Rand Water is one of the best performing entities, and its 120 years of existence is a testament to its excellence.

He said there is a lot that goes into the sustainability of any organisation, amongst others, the dedication of its leaders and members, good governance, transparency, liquidity and an overall focus on the organisation’s mandate.

While acknowledging there is still a lot of work to be done, the Minister said this "cannot take away the fact that the organisation has continued to perform in a stellar manner”.

“I would like to urge Rand Water to keep it up! One of the many things that we can commend Rand Water on is its ability to be forward-thinking, whether be it in terms of actual water supply or the maintenance of water and sanitation infrastructure – Rand Water has continued to ensure that it keeps its eye on the mandate which it is tasked to carry out,” Mchunu said.

He said the ministry and the department continue to pledge their support to Rand Water as they continue to be in service of the citizens of the country. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 15:44

182 views

8 November 2023

Police foil planned cash in transit robbery

Location: News

Police foil planned cash in transit robbery

National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has commended the police officers who foiled and intercepted a gang that was about to commit a cash in transit (CIT) robbery in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday.

The heavily armed gang was intercepted in Vrede, Free State.

According to police, officials were following up on intelligence received of a planned CIT when a shootout ensued between police and members of a private security company.

A 40-year-old security officer was shot and killed when the suspects who were travelling in a Dodge sedan opened fire. A shootout ensued and the Dodge overturned. It was later discovered that it was hijacked in Wierdabrug, Centurion.

At the scene, two suspects were injured and arrested. Police recovered an AK47 and an R5 with more than 240 rounds of high calibre ammunition.

Another group of suspects were intercepted in Memela about 52km from Vrede. Three suspects were arrested however some got away. A manhunt has since been launched for those who fled the scene. At this scene, two Mercedes Benz sedans were recovered and one has already been detected as stolen.

General Masemola said safer festive season operations are in full swing.

“Our members are on high alert to prevent and combat incidents of serious and violent crime especially aggravated robberies. We will continue to trace these wanted criminals, it’s them and us and this is a fight we are not willing to lose.

“We have heightened our operations and are intensifying them throughout the country,” said General Masemola. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 15:24

13 views

8 November 2023

Climate Loss and Damage Fund to be established for developing countries

Location: News

Climate Loss and Damage Fund to be established for developing countries

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy has welcomed the agreement by the Transition Committee of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) on the operationalisation of the Climate Loss and Damage Fund.

The purpose of the Fund is to assist developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change in response to economic and non-economic loss and damage associated with those harmful effects, including extreme weather events and slow-onset events.

Creecy noted that developing countries, Africa in particular, have borne the brunt of the adverse effects of climate change and have not received the required multilateral support to face the climate challenge, including for addressing loss and damage.

The agreement on the recommendation comes only weeks ahead of the 28th Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC in Dubai.

Creecy said the governing instrument of the Loss and Damage Fund presents a clear pathway to operationalising this historic milestone in the multilateral climate negotiations.

The delivery on the Sharm El-Sheik COP27 decision to operationalise a new fund for loss and damage in the context of the scale and increasing severity of loss and damage impacts in the near-term scenario of temperature increase to 1.5 degrees or above.

Loss and damage is generally defined as the impacts of climate change, which are not avoided, by mitigation, adaptation and other measures, such as disaster risk management.

The scope, eligibility and operational elements have been defined in order for the Fund to provide direct support in the form of largely grant-based and non-debt finance to reconstruction and rehabilitation.

This includes addressing relocation, lost livelihoods and non-economic losses after extreme weather and significant slow-onset events.

“The projected economic cost for loss and damage by 2030 alone has been estimated to be between $290 and $580 billion in developing countries alone. By 2050, the economic cost for loss and damage in developing countries is estimated to be between $1 trillion to $1.8 trillion.

“The new Loss and Damage Fund will have a Board, balanced between developed and developing countries and will take its guidance from the parties to the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.

“The Committee also proposed that the Fund be designated as an operating entity of the Financial Mechanism of the Convention and will allocate resources based on triggers that includes inter alia severity of the impacts on people, communities, infrastructure ecosystem of the climate-related event,” the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said on Wednesday.

It includes flexibility to address the variation in these impacts across developing countries and time, from cyclones and flooding, to slow onset droughts and land degradation, as well as sea-level rise and glacier retreat.

“The final approval of this agreement at COP28 presents the international community with a critical global solidarity moment to ensure the Fund is capitalised at a scale necessary to respond to the costs and impacts already borne by developing countries,” said Creecy.

The demonstration of solidarity to the vulnerable countries and communities will be assessed by both the scale of resources committed to the Fund.

“South Africa urges the COP28 presidency to launch a process for the initial core capitalisation from developed countries supplemented by financial inputs from a variety of other sources in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. It must also engage with all other relevant actors to support aligning their efforts to leverage the impact of the Fund in addressing loss and damage,” Creecy said.

The Transitional Committee was established at COP27 in Egypt last year with a mandate to present governance documentation to operationalise the Fund in 2023.

The Committee of 24 experts was co-chaired by Outi Honkatukia of Finland and Richard Sherman of South Africa.

The Minister has extended her appreciation to the co-chairs and the Developing Country Committee members for developing a robust and transparent instrument for the Fund. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 12:44

140 views

8 November 2023

N West Premier Maape to resume official duties following sick leave

Location: News

N West Premier Maape to resume official duties following sick leave

North West Premier Kaobitsa Bushy Maape will officially resume his duties following sick leave on Monday next week.

Maape took ill following minor orthopaedic surgery in June this year.

“He was subsequently advised by his medical team to take a rest while receiving medical attention,” the Premier's office said.

According to the Premier’s office, Maape has since been medically advised that he has sufficiently recovered to resume his duties as the North West’s first citizen, with effect from 13 November 2023.

“His programme and engagement with stakeholders will be communicated in due course,” the office said.

Acting Premier Nono Maloyi has taken the opportunity to thank colleagues in the North West Executive Council and all stakeholders for their support and well wishes during Maape’s recovery. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 11:57

136 views