SA News

24 October 2023

Kubayi leads SA delegation to Ghana

Location: News

Kubayi leads SA delegation to Ghana

Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, is leading a government and business delegation on an official visit to the Republic of Ghana to participate in government-to-business engagements focused on creating an environment for investment conducive for affordable housing development.

The high-level engagements between the Ghanaian and South African government, which get underway from 25-27 October 2023, will focus on policy and technical exchanges, including a bilateral between Kubayi and the host Minister of Works and Housing, Francis Asenso- Boakye, to review areas of mutual interest.

“The visit will contribute to the strengthening of partnerships between South Africa and Ghana's business sector, while promoting South Africa’s capabilities and policy expertise in the development of human settlements and infrastructure development in general,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 12:48

104 views

24 October 2023

Premier calls for faster assessment of rain-damaged schools in KZN

Location: News

Premier calls for faster assessment of rain-damaged schools in KZN

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube says the provincial Education Department must speed up its assessment of schools that were damaged by the recent heavy rains, which battered most parts of the province over the weekend.

Dube-Ncube made the call during her visit to the uMtubatuba Local Municipality in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal, where she conveyed her condolences to the victims and families, who lost their loved ones and belongings during the heavy rains.

“We’ve asked the Department of Public Works, working with the Department of Education, to ensure that we immediately attend to the schools because we don’t want learners to be disturbed, especially as they prepare for writing exams, and we know that the primary classes must write so that they can make space for matric exams to continue,” Dube-Ncube said.

She said in uMtubatuba alone, more than 120 households have been affected, with the majority of them partially damaged. More than 40 were completely damaged, leaving the families homeless.

According to the provincial Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) preliminary reports, at least five people have lost their lives in uMtubatuba due to thunderstorms, which blew roofs off houses, damaging infrastructure, including power cables, roads, bridges and cars.

The department said places, including community halls and churches, have been opened to the public, while others opted to find alternative accommodation with relatives.

Meanwhile, the Premier has convened an urgent meeting to discuss interventions to assist the families affected. The meeting was attended by COGTA MEC, Bongi Sithole-Moloi and Human Settlements MEC, Sipho Nkosi. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 11:43

135 views

24 October 2023

Pandor to participate in Palestine, Women, Peace and Security debate

Location: News

Pandor to participate in Palestine, Women, Peace and Security debate

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, has undertaken a working visit to New York to participate in two high-level debates at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

According to a Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) statement, the leaders will discuss the Middle East situation.

The debate, the department said, will also include the question of Palestine, and Women, Peace and Security (WPS) on Tuesday and Wednesday.

“Under the Presidency of Brazil, the UNSC has convened a high-level open debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the question of Palestine.”

According to the department, the Brazilian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mauro Vieira, will preside over the meeting and has invited Pandor to participate in this open debate.

“The open debate has been elevated to a high-level ministerial meeting because of the prevailing situation in Israel and Palestine.”

On Wednesday, Pandor will partake in the UNSC high-level open debate on WPS.

The discussion will focus on women’s participation in international peace and security from theory to practice.

“October is considered by the UN as the WPS month because resolution 1325 on women in armed conflict was adopted in October 2000.

“Consequently, the Security Council always holds an annual open debate on WPS in October to commemorate resolution 1325 and evaluate its implementation,” the statement read.

Resolution 1325 was adopted to primarily highlight the impact of armed conflict on women and girls and to advocate for the full involvement of women in peace processes including conflict resolution, peace negotiations, peacekeeping, and post-conflict reconstruction.

Pandor will also use the opportunity of her visit to New York to hold bilateral meetings with her counterparts from other countries. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 08:59

351 views

24 October 2023

Consumers can now file complaints with NCC online

Location: News

Consumers can now file complaints with NCC online

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced that consumers can now file their complaints online using the e-Service portal.

Acting National Consumer Commissioner, Thezi Mabuza, said consumers often complain about the manual process when they file complaints with the NCC.

“As South Africans are now accustomed to online transactions, we want to make it easier and more convenient for them to file complaints from the comfort of their homes or on the spot. The portal also makes it easy and possible for consumers to log in and view the status of their complaints without contacting the NCC,” she said on Monday.

The NCC is rolling out its first phase of the digitised complaint handling process.

The https://eservice.thencc.org.za portal is live and is replacing the manual complaint form.

The Commission said the portal is a seamless consumer complaint-handling process empowered by workflows in the back end and instant notifications to the consumers.

Consumer registration is verified through the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and as such, consumers are urged to use correct names and ID numbers as they appear in their ID books.

“Consumers may experience intermittent connectivity during the verification process due to interface with DHA and are therefore advised to be patient with the process. The NCC is on the other hand enhancing the registration process to take the burden of ID verification from the consumer,” the Commission said.

Consumers can follow these easy steps to create a profile online:

Consumers should be in passion of an ID/Passport number, email address, and mobile number.
Visit www.thencc.org.za/complaints or select the e-Service & OORs tab on the home page.
The page will take you to the e-services portal to create a profile.
When creating a profile, make that your names appear as they are on the ID or Passport (if you are a non-South African consumer).
The ID or passport number will be verified with the Department of Home Affairs.
Once your profile is verified and approved, you will receive confirmation with your login details via email.
Only then can you log into your profile, change your password, and file a complaint. You can lodge as many complaints using the same login details.

The Commission has arranged to accommodate consumers who do not have access to the Internet or an email address.

Mabuza said these consumers can still contact the Commission.

“To ensure that consumers enjoy their right to be heard, we encourage consumers who do not have access to the internet to utilise our contact centre for assistance. Our agents will create a profile on behalf of the consumer and file the complaint,” she said.

The complaints handling process is explained further on the website: www.thencc.org.za/complaints or contact our contact centre at 012 428 7000. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 09:00

182 views

23 October 2023

Over 100 suspects netted in Gauteng police operation

Location: News

Over 100 suspects netted in Gauteng police operation

Gauteng police started Operation Safer Festive Season on a high note when they recorded arrests of more than 140 suspects and recovered rifles, including an AK-47, from a man suspected to be a kingpin of illegal mining in the West Rand.

“Police received information about a suspect who is in possession of unlicensed firearms in Bekkersdal, West Rand District. The information was operationalised on the day of Operation Safer Festive Season, 21 October 2023. Upon searching the premises, police from Crime intelligence and Bekkersdal Visible Policing found two unlicensed firearms (R5 rifle and AK47 rifle) and dagga,” said the Gauteng South African Police Service (SAPS) in a statement on Sunday.

The incident saw a 36-year-old suspect being arrested for unlawful possession of firearms and dealing in dagga.

Furthermore, detectives went on to trace wanted suspects and arrested 56 of them for crimes ranging from rape to fraud.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Police General Bheki Cele, the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service General Fannie Masemola and Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela joined the police at a roadblock and illegal mining disruptive operation in Roodepoort.

The operation resulted in more than 85 suspects being arrested for offences that include possession of suspected stolen goods and contravening the Immigration Act.

Generators and drilling machines used by the illegal miners were seized as the police dismantled and disrupted their operation. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 08:46

586 views

23 October 2023

Mashatile to address National House of Traditional Leaders gathering

Location: News

Mashatile to address National House of Traditional Leaders gathering

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to participate and speak at a gathering convened by the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders.

According to the Presidency, he will meet with the leaders as Chairperson of the inter-ministerial task team on matters of traditional and Khoi-San leaders, at the Ilanga Estate, Bloemfontein, Free State, on Tuesday, 24 October.

The 2023 Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Xivijo, will focus on promoting development and social cohesion in traditional communities through cooperation with government and the private sector.

The meeting will emphasise the purpose and objective of building cohesive communities driven by the vision for development, Ubuntu and self-sustainability.

Xivijo is a Xitsonga expression of a gathering, usually called by the traditional leadership.

Representatives of the National, Provincial and Local Houses of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa), the Royal Leaders of South Africa (Rolesa), National Khoi-San Council, government and private sector representatives are expected to attend the gathering.

The aim, the Presidency said, is to engage on all matters affecting the institution of traditional leadership and its contribution to rural development.

“Established by the President, the inter-ministerial task team led by Deputy President Mashatile, will during this candid session, present progress reports on work carried out by various work streams led by Cabinet Ministers in addressing issues raised by the traditional leadership.”

This programme will include progress achieved in several areas including:

• Advancing land ownership, tenure rights and fast-tracking socio-economic development of rural communities.

• Building institutional capacity and ensuring support to traditional and Khoi-San leaders.

• Advancing infrastructure investment and skills development in rural communities.

• Promoting unity, social cohesion and nation-building in rural communities.

• Fast-tracking the finalisation of policy, legislative and constitutional matters.

“Government is committed to work together with the institution of traditional leadership in addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the country and it is also dedicated to strengthening the significant role they play, in the reconstruction and development of the country, especially in rural areas,” said the Presidency.

The Deputy President will be accompanied by Cabinet Ministers, Free State Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana, and senior government officials. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 09:37

486 views

23 October 2023

Inter-faith community called on to encourage crime afflicted communities

Location: News

Inter-faith community called on to help crime afflicted communities

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has reiterated the call to the inter-faith community to continue praying for all communities afflicted by crime, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), rape and murder.

“It is my view that crime prevention cannot be left to be the responsibility of government alone. Let us all hold hands and work together,” Dube-Ncube said.

Dube-Ncube made the call during the Provincial Youth Committee Gospel Arts and Culture Competition, held in Mthwalume, South Coast on Sunday. Participants in the competition showcased their talents and competitive spirit in gospel music, arts and culture.

The Premier said violence meted out against women in particular, is a shame and is a threat to all social cohesion and nation-building efforts.

“Today’s event reminds us that our communities are plagued by the scourge of GBVF and Crime in general. Crime here in the Mthwalume area in recent years and GBVF in particular has been a major worry.

“While the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele has assured me that the crimes of murder especially GBVF are being attended to, I urge the community to work closely with the SAPS [South African Police Service] to do everything to address all the sources of crime in this area and in the rest of the province,” she said.

The Premier said the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), places power in the hands of artists.

“With access to technology artists can now interact directly with their audience, create songs and post to all streaming platforms without the help of a manager or record label. This can take place whether you are Johannesburg or New York or even in a backroom here in Mthwalume.

“While the labels and record companies still do have a place, artists are now positioned better to attract success before labels get to them. Today’s event is therefore more than just entertainment or competition, but is an opportunity to minister, and also to provide economic empowerment opportunities in music and the performing arts to artists from all over our province,” the Premier said.

She added that bringing a gospel competition to Mthwalume is a demonstration that gospel music, which is one of the most popular genres in South Africa, belongs to the people. She said it underlines her belief that development of rural areas is as important as addressing the issue of services in rural areas. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 09:51

402 views

23 October 2023

Government activities for the week, 23 – 27 October 2023

Location: News

Government activities for the week, 23 - 27 October 2023

Government has scheduled the following briefings/activities for the week: 23 to 27 October 2023.

From Tuesday, 24 October, to Thursday, 26 October, South Africa will host the 7th Global Alcohol Policy Conference at the Cape Town Convention Centre in Cape Town.

On Tuesday, 24 October, the Electoral Commission will launch the 2024 National and Provincial Elections from 10:00 at the Ballroom, Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.

From Tuesday, 24 October, to Thursday, 26 October, Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, will host the BRICS Tourism Ministers meeting in Cape Town.

From Tuesday, 24 October, to Friday, 27 October, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies will host the National Digital and Future Skills Conference at the East London ICC in the Eastern Cape.

Janine
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 10:07

453 views

23 October 2023

Deadline looms for KZN emerging designer incubation applications

Location: News

Deadline looms for KZN emerging designer incubation applications

Emerging designers in KwaZulu-Natal have only four days left to submit their applications to be part of the Emerging Designers Incubation Programme.

The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) is looking for KZN-based emerging designers who are currently running a formal or informal creative design business, including crafters, fashion designers, and accessories designers, among others, to take part on the incubation programme.

To apply for the programme, applicants should click on the link: https://forms.gle/PZgeNDyTR2J1Ng2L6.

The closing date for application submissions is 27 October 2023.

Global exporter passport programme

Meanwhile, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition in partnership with KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs; KZN Trade and Investment, and Zululand Chamber of Commerce have invited prospective Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) within and around Richards Bay to participate in the Global Exporter Passport Programme.

The programme is designed to provide exporter development training to enterprises that wish to expand their export opportunities and be export ready and sustainable in export markets.

Thr programme will be undertaken in three phases, including introduction to exporting; planning for exports and market selection; and market entry analysis. Phase one of the programme will take place from 21 to 24 November 2023, phase two will be from 30 January 2024 to 02 February 2024, while phase three will take place from 20 February to 21 February 2024.

Consideration will be given to SMEs that are in existence and have been operational for at least one year and enterprises belong to a previously disadvantaged population group.

“Applicants must be directly involved in the daily operations of the business,” the department said.

Applicants must send an email to Gugulethu.Gumede@kznedtea.gov.za requesting an assessment form.

The closing date is 03 November 2023. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 12:51

167 views

23 October 2023

Green shoots in resolving the energy crisis

Location: News

Green shoots in resolving the energy crisis

South Africa is beginning to turn the corner in resolving the energy crisis.

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

Improved performance of Eskom’s generating fleet meant the suspension of load shedding over the past weekend and much lower stages of the planned power outages during the week.

“We have turned the corner, although we are not out of the woods yet. We are beginning to show sustained improved performance over an extended period of time and this is good news in that it’s an affirmation and validation of the work that the team is doing at Eskom,” he said.

The Minister said the intensification of maintenance plans at Eskom are beginning to have a positive impact despite a difficult period in September when load shedding was intensified as a result of maintenance outages.

These maintenance outages are aimed at reducing the incidence of generating units tripping on their own and improving performance.

“These plans that have been put into motion are beginning to bear fruit. I did indicate some time ago when we were experiencing heightened levels of load shedding Stage 6, that essentially what we are dealing with is short term pain which is going to result in long term gain and we are beginning to see the kinds of gains that I was referring to.

“Our actions are deliberate. We are going to invest a lot of our efforts to ensure that we are able to maintain the units,” he said.

Ramokgopa insisted that both Eskom and the department will not show any signs of complacency going forward.

“It’s important that we shouldn’t be complacent and we have never been complacent…even when are beginning to see … green shoots. I think what that does is just bolster and raise the morale of the team to ensure that we even achieved greater results and we are able to save the South African economy.

“We introduced these interventions when we came into office, after the President appointed and sat with the team and thought the best way of getting out of this situation is to ensure that we make these investments into these units. What are the results - when the units come back, they remain on load for the longest period of hours.

“Essentially we have undermined the rate and frequency of failure of these units. We have improved on their efficiency. They are beginning to produce more… closer to their design capacity. This is not by accident. It’s not some intervention that comes from a place that is unknown. It is simple engineering and we really want to commend the team,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 11:10

185 views

23 October 2023

Disaster teams respond to damage caused by heavy rains in KZN

Location: News

Disaster teams respond to damage caused by heavy rains in KZN

KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management teams are currently assisting people affected by heavy rainfall and strong winds that caused widespread destruction, particularly in Mtubatuba in the northern part of the province, at the weekend.

According to the provincial Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs’ (CoGTA) initial report, at least four people from Mtubatuba lost their lives due to a thunderstorm accompanied by strong winds over the weekend.

The storm ripped roofs off houses and caused damage to infrastructure, including power cables, roads, bridges, and vehicles.

“Up to now more than 70 houses in the Somkhele and KwaMyeki areas have been identified as destroyed. Some houses suffered complete damage, rendering families homeless.

“There are also reports of damaged vehicles and in certain areas Eskom poles and cables are scattered across roads and people's properties. Community halls and churches have opened their doors to the public, while others have sought alternative accommodation with relatives,” the department said in a statement.

In the Harry Gwala District, the Greater Kokstad Municipality has also experienced heavy rains and a hailstorm in the Pakkies Location. Approximately six households were affected, with no reported fatalities, injuries, or displaced individuals at the time of the report.

In the Umzimkhulu Municipality, heavy rains in the Madakeni location affected four households, with no fatalities reported, while in the Umgungundlovu District, about 23 households in the Rosetta informal settlement under the Mpofana Local Municipality were affected by the hailstorm on Saturday.

In Ulundi, under the Zululand District Municipality, a block of rental rooms was blown away by strong winds, with no reported injuries.

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi has conveyed her sincere condolences to the families and friends affected by the incidents.

Sithole-Moloi said disaster management teams will continue on-site assessments and provide relief including mattresses, blankets, food, and plastic sheeting.

“We are collaborating with other government departments, such as social development and human settlements, to aid all victims. Our teams, in conjunction with municipalities, will persist in assessments to determine necessary government intervention.

“We extend condolences to those who lost loved ones during this period. While we acknowledge that certain incidents are unavoidable, such as the thunderstorm with strong winds that devastated houses in Mtubatuba, we encourage communities to take safety precautions, such as relocating to safer areas where possible,” Sithole-Moloi said.

As heavy rains persist across various parts of the province, the MEC said provincial disaster management teams remain on high alert.

She said ongoing assessments will lead to an updated report, once the preliminary findings are consolidated.

Meanwhile, the MEC will today visit the affected families in Mtubatuba to convey her condolences to the families, and also conduct an assessment of the extensive damages in the area, where several homes were destroyed. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 10:27

159 views

22 October 2023

Western Cape prepares for record-breaking summer tourism season

Location: News

Western Cape prepares for record-breaking summer tourism season

With preparations for the summer tourism season underway, the Western Cape province will - for the first time ever - have more than one million in-bound international seats, breaking the record for travellers during the festive season.

“Looking ahead, Cape Town International Airport’s seat capacity for summer 2023/24 is estimated to increase by an impressive 25%, compared to the same period last year. This means that inbound international seats this summer will exceed 1 million, for the first time ever,” the MEC for Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, said on Sunday.

She said the province is pleased with the significant progress made over the past year in bringing the private and public sectors together to implement practical solutions to combat and pre-empt safety risks for visitors.

"Over the 2023/24 season, 250 tourism monitors will be deployed across the Western Cape to identified hotspots, and will be trained and equipped with mobile apps to link them to critical security services,” she said.

In addition, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Cape Town Tourism will implement tourist-in-distress programmes, which ensure that visitors have professional support available when they most need it.

“I am also pleased that the Department of Tourism has secured a commitment from South African Police Service (SAPS) that police reservists will be available during the summer season to assist with tourism safety,” she said.

The MEC said work is being prioritised to ensure a successful upcoming season, as well as future seasons.

“At the top of my list is making it as easy as possible for international visitors to holiday in the Western Cape and South Africa. I am determined to work with our national government partners to fix the inefficiencies. I therefore welcome the commitment from the Department of Home Affairs that the long overdue Remote or Digital Nomad Visa will be live by the end of March 2024,” Wenger said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 10:38

714 views

22 October 2023

President calls for UN to lead negotiations to resolve Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Location: News

President calls for UN to lead negotiations to resolve Israeli-Palestinian conflict

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a United Nations-led negotiation process towards resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“The international community has a responsibility and a duty to support peace, and to create favourable conditions for negotiation and dialogue,” the President said on Saturday.

He made these remarks at the Cairo Summit for Peace, which discussed the ongoing escalation of the conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip, and the urgent need for humanitarian support.

“As South Africa, we hold the firm view that the attack on civilians in Israel, the ongoing siege of Gaza and the decision to forcibly move the people of Gaza, together with the indiscriminate use of force through bombing, are violations of international law. More than that, these acts are an affront to our common humanity.

“We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the release of hostages, the lifting of the siege of Gaza, the opening of humanitarian corridors and the urgent provision of humanitarian aid on the required scale to the people of Gaza,” President Ramaphosa said.

The international community, the President said, has a responsibility and duty to support peace and create favourable conditions for negotiation and dialogue.

“As South Africans, we can relate to what is happening to Palestinians. Our people waged a brave and courageous struggle to achieve their freedom and were subjected to untold suffering just like the Palestinians are going through.

“The nightmare of apartheid was only brought to an end by the relentless struggle of our people and the courage and foresight of leaders, who put aside their differences and sought peace rather than revenge.

“We believe that peace is the only option to bring about peace between Israel and Palestine. To achieve this, steps must be taken now. We therefore call on all parties to exercise restraint and on all state actors to desist from providing weapons to either of the sides to the conflict,” the President said.

He expressed concern that the response of the Israeli government to the attack on its citizens will further deepen a conflict that has engulfed the region for many decades, and will make the attainment of a just and lasting peace even more difficult.

“We are also concerned that this conflict can spread to include other countries in the region. This must be avoided at all costs. The only way to bring about peace is the fulfilment of the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people to human rights, dignity and statehood.

“This is in line with the decisions that have been taken by the United Nations that guarantees statehood for both Israel and Palestine based on the 1967 borders. Only through a negotiated settlement, supported by the international community, can the people of Israel achieve the security they seek and the people of Palestine realise the freedom they deserve,” President Ramaphosa said.

He encouraged the international community to call for a ceasefire, find a sustainable solution to the conflict and stand on the side of peace, justice and human rights for all. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 10:58

511 views

22 October 2023

Police seize cocaine worth millions in Durban

Location: News

Police seize cocaine worth millions in Durban

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has seized cocaine with a street value of R80 million following another intelligence-driven operation at the Dube Trade Port within the King Shaka International Airport.

Members had been tracking various containers, which arrived intosaps the country via the Durban Harbour from Brazil.

“On Friday afternoon, members tracked a certain container to the Dube Trade Port, in which 228 blocks of cocaine were seized. The cocaine was found concealed in meat boxes and disguised as such. This is the second drug bust in the last two days, this after R70 million worth of cocaine was also seized from a container at the Durban Harbour,” the SAPS said.

Police are investigating a case of trafficking of drugs. Investigations are underway to establish the final destination of these drugs.

National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, has commended the team for the disruption of transnational crimes, in relation to the movement of drugs.

“The SAPS is hard at work in disrupting and dismantling transnational organised crime that poses a significant threat to the communities that we serve. We continue to intensify and strengthen the detection of drug trafficking and associated organised crime.

“We are intensifying our safer festive operations and there are more takedowns to come from the SAPS, we are warning those who are involved in such activities to either surrender or we will continue to sniff them out,” Masemola said.

SAPS said it continues to enhance cooperation with other law enforcement agencies across the world in a bid to clamp down on these illicit activities.

The case will be handed over to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS) for investigation. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 11:15

693 views

22 October 2023

Recreational Fishing Permit Application goes online

Location: News

Recreational Fishing Permit Application goes online

Recreational fishers can now apply for their Monthly and Annual Recreational Fishing Permits on the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE)’s online Recreational Fishing Permit Application.

In a statement on Sunday, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy said the online permitting system will enable enthusiastic recreational fishers and members of the public to easily access a recreational permit without having to travel distances to find a Post Office.

“Applicants will be able to choose the type of permit they require, select the period of validity, process payments and download the permit,” Creecy said.

The development of the solution came about as a result of the challenges faced by the department in issuing recreational fishing permits to the public through the South African Post Office (SAPO).

“Given the recent closure of a number of the SAPO branches, the department embarked on a process to develop an in-house online platform to ensure accessibility for the public to purchase the recreational fishing permits electronically.

“The solution provides applicants with functional options to register, apply and obtain permits for recreational fishing in South African waters. Fishers will be able to choose the type of permit they require, select the period of validity, process payments and download the permit,” the Minister said.

The online solution is complimentary to the SAPO issued permits, so members of the public that have no internet access, can still use the nearest SAPO branch.

The online solution can be accessed using the link below.

https://www.fishing.dffe.gov.za

A detailed user guide explaining how to go navigate the platform is accessible on the platform and on the DFFE website. –SANews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 12:24

205 views

22 October 2023

Plans in space to ensure safe festive season in Gauteng

Location: News

Plans in place to ensure safe festive season in Gauteng

Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Elias Mawela, has outlined the province’s plans to keep communities safe this festive season.

Addressing the launch of the Safer Festive Season campaign on Saturday in Randfontein, Mawela said the Gauteng Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (ProvJOINTS) has resolved to heighten the crime efforts over and above the daily and weekly activities.

“Each government department will aggressively enforce its legislative mandate. We will increase the frequency of our crime prevention and crime combating operations by increasing police visibility through the blue light patrols and static deployment of rapid response vehicles at identified strategic routes,” Mawela said.

The Safer Festive Season campaign will be implemented under the theme: "Combating crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement".

This festive season police will focus on prevention of gender-based violence and femicide, as well as protection of members of the vulnerable groups, combating aggravating robberies, enforcing legislation in relation of firearms, liquor and second hand goods.

It will also include enforcing safety at recreational events, enforcing bi-laws as well as dealing with drunken driving, speeding and removing unroadworthy on the roads.

Law enforcement is expected to conduct roadblocks, which will include deploying more intelligence at hotspot areas.

Intelligence collection capabilities will be enhanced by working with community patrollers and community police forums.

Police Minister General Bheki Cele gave his marching orders to police officers who have been tasked with protecting communities.

“Criminals have declared war against the people of South Africa and you are the buffer between those people and the criminals. It is your job to protect them. I am making a call that you fight against criminals who have declared war against South Africans and the government,” the Minister said.

Cele encouraged the men and women in blue to ensure the safety of women, children and the elderly, emphasizing that their cases should be attend to when they have been reported.

He said government is set to improve police visibility by deploying about 10 000 newly trained officers in December. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 12:55

232 views

22 October 2023

Intensifying efforts to combat illegal cross-border operations

Location: News

Intensifying efforts to combat illegal cross-border operations

The net is closing in on unscrupulous operators, as the Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA) launches its law enforcement unit this week.

On Monday, the C-BRTA will officially launch the unit, leading the way to intensifying efforts to deal with the prevailing scourge of illegal cross-border operations and ensure road safety by the Road Transport Inspectorate (RTI).

The agency will use the launch to inform the public about the RTI and its operations, following its return from the Road Traffic Management Corporation on 1 April 2023.

The primary role of the inspectorate is to ensure compliance on cross-border road transport through inspections and prosecutions of illegal operators.

Furthermore, during the launch, the Agency will promote its legislative mandate, which includes law enforcement.

Activities for the day will include the unveiling of the law enforcement badge, handing over of law enforcement vehicles and showcasing of the law enforcement official uniform.

This event also serves as one of the C-BRTA’s October Transport Month (OTM) campaign activities.

OTM is recognised as one of the flagship programmes of the National Department of Transport. Its aim is to highlight the important role that transport plays in the economy and society in general.

This year’s campaign takes place under the theme: “Sakhile - we have built better infrastructure, growing South Africa Together”. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 13:48

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22 October 2023

Load shedding remains suspended

Location: News

Load shedding remains suspended

Due to the continued improved generation fleet performance and emergency reserves fully recovered, load shedding will remain suspended and only resume on Tuesday at 16:00, Eskom said on Sunday.

“Stage 1 load shedding will be implemented on Tuesday from 4pm until 5am on Wednesday. Thereafter, load shedding will be suspended from 5am until 4pm, followed by Stage 1 load shedding from 4pm until 5am on Thursday,” Eskom said.

This pattern will be repeated daily until further notice.

Breakdowns are currently at 13 559MW, while planned maintenance is at 4 765MW of generation capacity.

Demand forecast for the evening peak is 25 054MW.

Eskom said it will communicate should any significant changes occur. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 13:03

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22 October 2023

Boks, Proteas design SA proud

Location: News

Boks, Proteas make SA proud

President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated the rugby and cricket national teams for winning their matches against England in their respective World Cup matches.

“Our national teams are inspiring people all over the world and making all of us deeply proud,” the President said on Sunday.

South Africa advanced to the 2023 Rugby World Cup final on Saturday night following a 16-15 victory against England.

“Congratulations to our heroic Springboks on a hard-won Rugby World Cup 2023 semi-final at Stade de France, Paris. Now our nation can focus our hearts and flags on our second successive Rugby World Cup Final in as many tournaments. We are indeed stronger – and victorious – together,” the President said.

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, travelled to Paris to back the Springboks in their match against England.

“Most sporting nations use soft diplomacy such as sport and culture to achieve their diplomatic goals. As a global player, South Africa must continue to invest in these areas to advance its diplomatic goals.

“What a win by the Springboks! The Bokke have shown why they are the reigning World Cup champions. Bring on the finals. What a World Cup day for South Africa!” the Minister said.

Meanwhile, the Proteas beat England by 229 runs in their 2023 Cricket World Cup group match on Saturday at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

“Warm congratulations to the Proteas on their record win over England in the ICC World Cup tournament. The nation wishes you further victories on your way to the final. Between the Proteas and the Springboks, our national teams are inspiring people all over the world and making all of us deeply proud,” the President said.

Kodwa also congratulated the Proteas.

“What a fantastic victory! Congratulations on a mighty performance. You have inspired South Africans all over with your big win,” he said. –SANews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 11:42

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20 October 2023

Advocate Gcaleka recommended as next Public Protector

Location: News

Advocate Gcaleka recommended as next Public Protector

The National Assembly (NA) has voted to recommend to President Cyril Ramaphosa that he appoint Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka as South Africa’s new Public Protector (PP).

Gcaleka has served as Deputy Public Protector since February 2020, before acting as head of the institution when Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane was suspended in June 2022.

As set out in the Constitution, the PP’s office is a Chapter 9 institution with powers to, amongst others, investigate “any conduct in State affairs, or in the public administration in any sphere of government, that is alleged or suspected to be improper or to result in any impropriety or prejudice”.

The NA’s process to nominate a new PP began in May this year with the establishment of the Ad Hoc Committee to Nominate a Person for Appointment as Public Protector.

The committee issued a call for nominations or applications from the public in accordance with Section 59(1) of the Constitution, which obligates public participation in processes of the NA.

“Broadly, the provision states that the NA must facilitate public involvement in its legislative and other processes, and conduct its business in an open manner and hold its sittings, and those of its committees, in public. The Committee accordingly conducted its business in an open and transparent manner,” Parliament said in a statement.

Some 53 nominations and 17 applications were received as a result.

“Of the 53 nominations, 32 did not meet the nomination requirements as set out in the advertisement and two candidates subsequently withdrew from the process. Eight candidates were shortlisted for interviews and underwent reference checks and verification of qualifications.

“Following the rigorous interview process, the Committee met on 29 August to deliberate and agreed to recommend to the NA that it nominate Advocate Gcaleka for appointment as Public Protector,” the statement read.

Parliament explained the requirements that have to be met in order to be appointed as head of the Chapter 9 institution.

“The person must be a South African citizen, who is fit and proper to hold such office, and who is a Judge of a High Court or is admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having been so admitted, practiced as an advocate or an attorney; or is qualified to be admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having so qualified, lectured in law at a university, or has specialised knowledge of or experience, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, in the administration of justice, public administration or public finance,” Parliament said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 10:42

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20 October 2023

N West appeals for unruffled after reports of alleged poisonous food from spazas

Location: News

N West appeals for calm after reports of alleged poisonous food from spazas

The North West Provincial Legislature is appealing to communities to remain calm after receiving messages from the public “panicking about the death of children after allegedly consuming poisonous food items bought from spaza shops”.

The North West Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Tourism, Agriculture and Rural Development, chaired by Bitsa Lenkopane, has also called on communities to remain vigilant.

The committee urged the provincial Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism and other relevant stakeholders to investigate these disturbing allegations. It urged the department to join hands with municipalities and activists to create awareness to ensure that communities understand the State’s mandate in such matters.

“We are calling on the department to do inspections and furnish the portfolio committee with a detailed report, which should indicate trader categories and their respective consumable products, which are further extended to school learners.

“These must include trader status, whether licensed or not, compliant with the business regulation act or not -- which must indicate compliance with the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 about foreign-owned business,” Lenkopane said.

The committee said it has been inundated with calls from members of the community following media reports on children's deaths after reportedly consuming poisonous food items bought from spaza shops.

Earlier this month, the Gauteng Health Department confirmed the deaths of at least five children due to suspected food poisoning. This after the children allegedly consumed poisonous food from local shops and vendors.

“While no formal and or authenticated information and evidence has been received, the portfolio committee has been receiving calls from panicking parents and community members seeking remedies to protect communities from alleged traders who sell them products containing deadly poison,” said Lenkopane.

The committee further urged officials to regularly communicate with communities through different platforms to ensure that they are accountable and responsible for all the operating businesses across the province to reduce the amount of panic.

“The portfolio committee will rely on the report from the department that should be submitted within seven days and further engage communities on the work done and/or systems in place, including communication of the database of all businesses, regulated or not.”

In addition, the committee appealed to communities to refrain from causing unnecessary unrest, and rather report incidents and provide proof to the nearest police service.

“They should also provide accurate information to any government officials who might be dealing with the situation,” said Lenkopane. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 11:02

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20 October 2023

Pandor calls for urgent provision of humanitarian aid as Israel-Palestine conflict escalates

Location: News

Pandor calls for urgent provision of humanitarian aid as Israel-Palestine conflict escalates

South Africa has called for an immediate end to hostilities and the unconditional provision of medical supplies and humanitarian aid as the conflict between Israel and Palestine escalates.

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, said this on Friday during her working visit to Zambia where she held talks with her counterpart Minister Stanley Kakubo in Lusaka.

She described the conflict between Israel and Palestine as “grave”.

According to various media outlets, the death toll of those killed since 7 October 2023 in the Gaza Strip has reached 4 127, including 1 661 children, while 13 162 people have been injured.

“The carnage and senseless destruction of property as well as the untold pain and suffering should be condemned unreservedly. These events remind us of our own suffering at the hands of apartheid machinery,” Pandor said.

The Minister said the relevant United Nations (UN) resolutions and decisions should now be fully executed to ensure peaceful co-existence between Israel and Palestine for sustained peace.

“In this regard, our struggle is not complete if the people of Palestine are not free.”

In the same breath, Pandor said leaders should take the opportunity to reinforce their support for the people of Western Sahara in pursuit of their right to self-determination.

“The immediate focus should be to ensure that the referendum is conducted in a free and fair manner. I am satisfied that we had an opportunity to exchange views on these important issues earlier on,” she added.

Repatriation

Meanwhile, Pandor told the Zambian delegate that government was inundated with requests from South African families for assistance in identifying the grave sites and repatriation of mortal remains of their loved ones.

“These are heroes and heroines of our struggle you sheltered during our dark days of apartheid.”

South Africa, she said, was looking forward to working closely with the Zambian government to accord these families closure.

“Whenever we touch down in this country, vivid memories of the support we received during the struggle against apartheid are evoked in our minds.”

According to Pandor, many of the freedom fighters either settled or transited through Zambia from as early as 1963 where the African National Congress (ANC) also established its headquarters in 1969.

“The Zambian people, within their means, provided security and shelter to our gallant fighters and their leadership, particularly OR Tambo whose leadership and resilience led to the intensification of our struggle in the 1980s,” she recalled.

Strategic partner

She noted that South Africa and Zambia also remain strategic partners because of the shared history and vision to foster a stable, cohesive, integrated, and prosperous Africa.

“South Africa will continue to work closely with Zambia and our regional partners to deepen peace and stability in Southern Africa and beyond.”

Pandor said a peaceful and stable region will enable the two governments to collectively rebuild their economies following the devastation of COVID-19 and restore people’s dignity.

“We must take advantage of the regional value chain projects in our region and contribute towards the fruition of the SADC Integration Agenda as well as the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA).”

Both countries are currently in the process of preparing for the Inaugural Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) which will take place in Zambia.

The BNC launch, she said, is overdue as the nations have not convened since 2017.

“We therefore need to utilise the occasion of the BNC to review the implementation of the existing 23 agreements and Memoranda of Understanding signed between the two countries.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 13:47

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20 October 2023

Gauteng launches auto body workshop for its fleet management entity

Location: News

Gauteng launches auto body workshop for its fleet management entity

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has launched a state-of-the-art Panel Beating and Apprenticeship Training Workshop, which is set to benefit graduates, informal businesses and entrepreneurs.

Addressing the launch on Friday in Johannesburg, Department of Roads and Transport Director of Fleet Maintenance Unit at g-FleeT Management Sifiso Mhlongo explained that the new Panel Beating Workshop will offer full cycle panel beating services for all g-FleeT vehicles involved in accidents.

G-FleeT Management is a Trading Entity of the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport and is a provider of vehicle leasing and fleet management services for the public sector in South Africa whose clients include National, Gauteng Provincial and local government departments.

Historically, accident repairs have been outsourced through the RT46 Transversal Contract by the National Treasury of South Africa.

“Accident repairs are one of the major cost drivers for g-FleeT. Therefore, the main objective of the New Panel Beating Workshop is to assist g-FleeT to be in total control of a major part of its value chain, which impacts on the quality of fleet, turnaround times, customer satisfaction and g-FleeT’s self-sustainability,” Mhlongo said.

The anticipated benefits of the workshop include improved cost control, quality of repairs, skills development for qualified artisans and experienced staff as well as satisfied clients and self-sustainability of the entity.

“The Panel Beating facility would be manufacturer approved, and this would enable all repairs to be carried out at the manufacturer’s strict criteria and standard, with a plan to obtain industry Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), South African Motor Body Repairers' Association (SAMBRA) and Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA (MERSETA) accreditation.

“It also has a built-in Training Facility for technical training and skills development, which would help g-FleeT contribute to the development of technical skills categorized as critical and scarce in the country.

“The Entity plans to operationalise the panel beating workshop, gradually build up internal capacity, and consider adopting a hybrid approach for in-sourcing and outsourcing of accident repairs,” he said.

G-FleeT has partnered with the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) to operationalise the Panel Beating Workshop, as the entity does not have the necessary skills internally.

“AIDC is a subsidiary of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, which is an agency of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development. They specialize in both Automotive Hub establishment and Technical Skills Development, which made them a strategic fit for the operationalization of the Panel Beating Workshop, with an In-house Training Facility,” Mhlongo said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 13:58

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20 October 2023

NSG, UJ sign MOU

Location: News

NSG, UJ sign MOU

The National School of Government (NSG) and the University of Johannesburg (UJ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate the secondment of academic personnel of the UJ to the NSG during their sabbatical leave.

The MoU enables UJ scholars to pursue education and research in line with the education, training and development (ETD) initiatives at the NSG for the duration of their sabbaticals.

The MOU will promote knowledge exchange and resource support, and will greatly enhance the NSG’s interventions in improving State capacity.

Public Service and Administration Minister Noxolo Kiviet has hailed the agreement as a progressive partnership towards the professionalisation of the public service, since the academics are expected to contribute to education, training and development programmes at the NSG.

“Building an ethical, capable developmental State is an apex priority of government. Such a partnership will go a long way towards the achievement of this goal,” Kiviet said.

Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) said: “I am delighted to announce the secondment of our esteemed academic personnel to the prestigious National School of Government during their sabbatical. This opportunity will not only enrich their own research and teaching expertise but also contribute to the advancement of public administration and governance practices in the country.

“We believe that this collaboration will pave the way for greater innovation, knowledge-sharing, and academic excellence in the field. Our commitment to fostering partnerships with leading institutions such as the NSG underscores our dedication to creating a positive societal impact and shaping future leaders in the public service.”

The Principal of the NSG, Prof Busani Ngcaweni, welcomed the agreement and said the NSG looks forward to the benefit that the public sector will derive from this development.

“Academics will be able to share their expertise and gain practical experience of how the public service works, through being stationed in a government department for a period,” Ngcaweni said.

Government departments will also gain a lot from the expertise and research capacity of the academic personnel.

Ngcaweni said the NSG will explore the conclusion of a similar agreement with higher education institutions, as well to expand the pool from which government will benefit. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 14:05

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