MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for SA News

SA News

South Africa, Namibia highlight areas of partnership

Location: News

South Africa, Namibia highlight areas of partnership

South Africa and Namibia have reached agreements in more than 150 areas which will deepen relations between the two Southern African countries.

This was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the South Africa-Namibia Business Forum held in Namibia.

“Our Ministers of International Relations tabled a report at the Bi-National Commission where they reported on up to 159 areas of agreement that they have worked on in the past few days. This process started after His Excellency Hage Geingob visited South Africa on a state visit earlier this year.

“This business forum was presaged by those agreements that they have been working on for all this time. To have had up to 150-something areas agreement is a truly outstanding feat…that is a result of real good hard work,” he said.

The President said the two countries can use the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area to position themselves as an industrialising hub for the continent with a focus on increased trade between the two countries and with the rest of the continent.

The agreements presented encouraged the two governments to deepen or broaden cooperation in four specific areas including in:

  • Green Hydrogen
  • Developing cross-border value-chains to boost industrialisation and economic development
  • Promoting higher levels of investment in each other’s economies
  • Facilitating deeper private sector relations

On Green Hydrogen, the President said: “South Africa is in the process of considering and finalising a Green Hydrogen Commercialisation Strategy. Namibia too is implementing its green hydrogen strategy. We can either go it alone as South Africa and Namibia or we can position this part of the west coast of the African continent as a key green hydrogen region.”

Turning to cross border value chains, President Ramaphosa said the two countries together have “the key elements of success”.

“We have raw materials, ranging from critical minerals to agricultural raw materials. We have technology, capital, an increasingly skilled and educated workforce and infrastructure. A number of value chains can be identified.

“One of these relate to our use of critical minerals to ensure that manufacturing takes place on the African continent,” he said.

President Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa’s favourability as an investment destination and called on Namibian businesses to do business in the country and called on South African companies to do the same.

“I want to invite Namibian businesses who want to expand their operations to set up businesses in our country. Similarly, South African companies can work with the government of Namibia and local business partners to set up operations here.

“In order to boost investment, we agreed earlier today to request our Ministers of Trade and Industry to work towards establishing a financing facility for industrial and productive development projects,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said business forums like the one held on Friday are an example of platforms that must be created to strengthen “dialogue and stimulate joint ventures” in the private sectors of both countries.

“Namibian businesses must see benefits from the involvement of South African firms in Namibia, and vice versa.

“I wish to welcome two key decisions we made at the Binational Commission today. They are, firstly, to deepen cooperation to attract private sector investment in agreed areas of cooperation.

“Secondly, to establish a South Africa-Namibia Business Council to serve as a public-private sector platform for coordinated and concerted actions,” President Ramaphosa said. - SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Sun, 10/15/2023 - 12:53

322 views
Read moreSouth Africa, Namibia highlight areas of partnership

Gordhan thanks Molefe for his service

Location: News

Gordhan thanks Molefe for his service

Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan has thanked Popo Molefe for his contribution to Transnet, following his resignation from the state-owned freight and logistics company’s board.

He resigned from the board after serving for five years.

He was appointed as board chairperson in 2018 but was replaced by Andile Sangqu in July this year.

Molefe’s resignation comes barely two weeks after the announcement of the resignations of Group Chief Executive (GCE) Portia Derby and Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Nonkululeko Dlamini from the company.

“Mr Molefe and his board of directors have been at the forefront of our unrelenting push to reclaim Transnet from vested interests and state capture. We wish him well in his future endeavours and thank him for heeding the call to serve our country,” Gordhan said.

The department in its statement said Molefe’s resignation is due to personal reasons.

“The stepping down of Mr Molefe…must not be misconstrued or interpreted as being in any way related to the recent developments at the company,” the department said.

Meanwhile, Transnet has developed a turnaround plan for the company and expects to submit this to the department this coming week.

“The turnaround plan outlines operational and financial initiatives which must be implemented in the next six, twelve and eighteen months to stabilise the business and position the company for growth.

“The turnaround plan is predicated on several detailed goals to reform and strengthen the operational state of the freight rail division in particular, and with priorities of key elements, specifically the rail corridors that service key sectors of the economy,” Transnet said.

According to Transnet, the plan is premised on principles which include:

  • The balancing of the financial stability and the operational performance of the business.
  • Improved utilisation and care for operational assets and infrastructure.
  • Improved integration and operation execution across operating divisions.
  • Improved employee engagement and visible management at operations.
  • The development of a deeper accountability framework.
  • Cost reduction measures, cashflow and working capital improvements.
  • Continuous engagement and collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, including organised labour, customers, funders, government and industry.

“The board has prioritised the filling of the three executive positions in the business, with the recruitment process having commenced this past week. The recruitment process is being prioritised for urgent finalisation, given the criticality of these positions to the organisation, and the lead role the incumbents will play in execution of the turnaround plan.

“The board also continues to work closely and collaboratively with stakeholders, including the National Logistics Crisis Committee,” Transnet said.

Transnet will meet with government this week to finalise the plan.

“[The] representative of the board will meet next week with the Shareholder Ministry as well as the Ministry of Finance to discuss the operational and financial details of the business turnaround plan, including areas which require immediate Government support.

“Once approved by the Shareholder and funding commitment is secured, the plan will be discussed with key stakeholders such as organised labour, employees, customers and lenders,” Transnet said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 10/15/2023 - 11:56

221 views
Read moreGordhan thanks Molefe for his service

Police must ‘hit hard’ against criminality during festive season

Location: News

Police must 'hit hard' against criminality during festive season

Police Minister General Bheki Cele has called on law enforcement to step up their efforts to squeeze out criminality during this festive season.

The Minister was speaking the launch on Friday of the National Safer Festive Season operations.

“South Africans and all our visitors have a right to enjoy life, have a right to enjoy the festive season. Make sure that these South Africans, wherever they are, whether they are in the malls, whether they are in their houses, whether they are on the beaches, whether they are out dancing…wherever they are, make sure that they are safe.

“Give criminals a run for their money. Make sure that criminals are squeezed,” he said.

Cele gave criminals a stern warning that police will “hit hard”.

“There are criminals who want to co-govern with the people that are elected. You are not going to move around breaking into people’s houses, robbing people, raping people, going for cash heists, bank robberies and you believe…that we won’t do anything.

“I’m calling on those police officers who are given the responsibility to deal with those heartless criminals - that think they run the world and the country - don’t be kind to them. Hit and hit hard. Criminals have declared war against communities and society. I’m making a call to those police…to protect the communities,” he said.

Cele called on communities to work with the police to root out criminality.

“Don’t hide those criminals among yourselves because they will hurt you. As you protect that criminal, tomorrow he’s coming back for you,” he said.

The Minister also called on the police to do their job within the bounds of the law.

The festive season operations have already scored a victory after Western Cape police seized R75 million worth of counterfeit goods and R200 000 in cash at a shopping centre in Cape Town. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Sun, 10/15/2023 - 10:02

96 views
Read morePolice must ‘hit hard’ against criminality during festive season

SA condemns violation of the Geneva Conventions

Location: News

SA condemns violation of the Geneva Conventions

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) has condemned in the strongest possible terms Israel’s violation of the Geneva Conventions and the abandonment of International Humanitarian Law in Gaza.

According to the World Health Organisation, the complete blockage of the Gaza Strip announced by Israel remains in effect.

Israeli authorities have stopped their electricity and water supply to the Gaza Strip and no movements of food, fuel, health, other humanitarian supplies or patients are allowed – worsening the already dire situation, said Dirco in a statement.

Article 14 of the Geneva Convention states: “Starvation of civilians as a method of combat is prohibited. It is therefore prohibited to attack, destroy, remove or render useless for that purpose, objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population such as food-stuffs, agricultural areas for the production of food-stuffs, crops, livestock, drinking water installations and supplies and irrigation works”.

According to the Fourth Geneva Convention, “civilians in areas of armed conflict and occupied territories are protected by the 159 articles of the Fourth Geneva Convention. Civilians are to be protected from murder, torture, or brutality, and from discrimination on the basis of race, nationality, religion or political opinion”.

The UN Commission on Human Rights has previously declared Israel’s “continuous grave breaches” of the Fourth Geneva Convention and Additional Protocol I to be war crimes.

“International Humanitarian Law includes the obligation not to target civilian populations, and the responsibility to protect civilians in armed conflict. Israeli bombardments from the air, sea, and land have continued and intensified across the Gaza Strip for the sixth consecutive day.

“This is an egregious violation of International Humanitarian Law,” said Dirco.

According to the latest report from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the continual bombardment of the Gaza strip has now resulted in over 423 000 internally displaced people, this represents an increase of 24 percent over the past 24 hours. Two-thirds of the IDPs are taking shelter in UNRWA schools.

“[The] announcement by Israel giving 1.1 million Gazans 24 hours to leave the Northern Gaza strip and evacuate to the South of Gaza will lead to further catastrophe as, according to humanitarian organisations on the ground, there are not enough resources to host so many IDPs in other governorates - not enough shelter, aid or water.

“The UN has announced that UN schools turned into shelters are already overrun with shortages in resources, including food, water, medicine, and other humanitarian provisions as required under International Law,” the DIRCO statement read.

The department urged the Israeli government to heed calls to provide services to the Gaza strip.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has stressed that crucial life-saving supplies, including fuel, food and water, must be allowed into Gaza.

Between 100 and 150 Israelis, including soldiers and civilians, some of whom are women and children, as well as some foreign nationals, have been captured and forcibly taken into Gaza. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also called for the “immediate release of all Israeli hostages, which is also forbidden under International Humanitarian Law”.

“South Africa calls on Israel to immediately heed the calls of the UN Secretary General, the plethora of humanitarian organisation operating in Gaza, and a number of governments around the world to immediately provide water, food, fuel, and electricity to the people of Gaza.

“South Africa also calls for the release of the Israeli hostages taken into Gaza,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Sun, 10/15/2023 - 09:01

121 views
Read moreSA condemns violation of the Geneva Conventions

Free State MEC to appear in court

Location: News

Free State MEC to appear in court

A Free State Member of the Executive Council (MEC), a political advisor to the Matjhabeng Local Municipality and a Chief Director are scheduled to appear before the Kroonstad Magistrates Court today.

They will appear in court on Friday, 13 October on allegations of fraud, corruption, money laundering, and contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act 56 of 2003.

They were arrested on Thursday afternoon by members of the Hawks` Serious Corruption Investigation unit based in Bloemfontein. 

The matter emanates from a 2017 incident when the MEC was still the Executive Mayor. 

It is alleged that the three suspects colluded to take over R150 000 belonging to Moqhaka Local Municipality, under the guise that the money would be spent on a sound system to be used during a Nelson Mandela memorial lecture.

The event never took place, despite money having been transacted out of the municipal bank account.

Free State Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), Major General Mokgadi Bokaba has applauded investigators working on the case for their hard work, which led to the court issuing warrants of arrest.

She encouraged them to pursue all matters they are investigating with vigour. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 09:36

494 views
Read moreFree State MEC to appear in court

President Ramaphosa on working visit to Namibia

Location: News

President Ramaphosa on working visit to Namibia

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to lead a delegation of ministers on a working visit to Namibia today.

While there, the President will co-chair the 3rd Session of the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Namibia Bi-National Commission (SA - Namibia BNC) with his Namibian counterpart, President Hage Geingob.

According to the Presidency, the BNC was inaugurated some 10 years ago at Windhoek with the second session of the BNC held in 2016.

“South Africa and Namibia share a common vision on issues of political and economic integration of the African continent. Both countries pursue Africa’s renewal, South-South cooperation, and the promotion of a rules-based, equitable international system of governance.

“The scope of cooperation between the two countries is expansive, anchored by 74 Memoranda of Understanding and Agreements. The geographical proximity of our countries and the sharing of common borders has over the years presented many opportunities for cooperation and thus benefitted the economies of the two countries,” the Presidency said in a statement.

The Presidency said this third session of the BNC has the following objectives:

  • Evaluate progress on the implementation of commitments made during the 2nd session of the BNC;
  • Consolidate the existing bilateral political, economic and social relations between the two countries and people;
  • Promote cooperation in energy, particularly focusing on electricity and green hydrogen;
  • Deepen existing cooperation and coordination at regional, continental and global levels to advance common positions.

“President Ramaphosa will lead a government delegation comprising of Ministers Naledi Pandor of International Relations and Cooperation; Thoko Didiza of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Blade Nzimande of Higher Education, Science and Innovation; and Ebrahim Patel of Trade, Industry and Competition.

“The delegation is also expected to include Ministers Lindiwe Zulu of Social Development; Gwede Mantashe of Mineral Resources and Energy; Barbara  Creecy of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries; Senzo Mchunu of Water and Sanitation; Sandisiwe Chikunga of Transport; Patricia de Lille of Tourism; and Ministers in The Presidency, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa and Khumbudzo Ntshavheni,” the statement read.

Committees that make up the BNC include the Diplomatic, Economic, Social and Defence and Security committees. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 09:44

581 views
Read morePresident Ramaphosa on working visit to Namibia

President Ramaphosa: Panel findings on Lady R were “completely rational”

Location: News

President Ramaphosa: Panel findings on Lady R were "completely rational"

President Cyril Ramaphosa has told the National Council of Provinces that he is confident that the independent panel -- which was appointed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the docking of the Lady R vessel in Simonstown in December 2022 -- made rational findings. 

The President was answering oral questions in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Thursday. 

“I have no reason to believe the findings of the panel were irrational. In fact, I believe the findings of the panel were completely rational. As one went through the report, I could find no irrationality. The panel made no finding of involvement of clandestine parties or illegal transactions," President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa appointed the panel to investigate claims that South Africa may have exported weaponry and ammunition to Russia, which invaded Ukraine in February last year and is accused of various war crimes.

The panel found no evidence that South Africa sent weapons to Russia.

The President said that the independent panel was led by a respected retired Judge and two prominent and respected legal minds. 

“The extent of the work undertaken and the information the panel sought, obtained and analysed gives me full confidence in the contents of their report. 

“The panel made no finding of involvement by ‘clandestine parties’ or illegal transactions, and no evidence has been presented to contradict the panel’s findings.

“The contents of the shipment carried on the Lady R are kept secret so as not to compromise the work or the safety of our security forces. I have no intention of compromising this under any circumstances,” the President said. 

The President highlighted that Section 23 of the National Conventional Arms Control Act makes it clear that information on the quantity of items is shared with Parliament on a confidential basis.

“Nothing in the Act requires disclosure on the intended use of the controlled items. In fact, the Act expressly states that: 'Information concerning the technical specifications of controlled items may be omitted from a report contemplated in this section in order to protect military and commercial secrets', " the President said. 

He said the work of the National Conventional Arms Control is critical in ensuring that the country abides by its international obligations in relation to the transfer and trade in controlled items, and that "it continues to do this critical work, as provided for in its founding legislation and the relevant United Nations conventions". 

President Ramaphosa said the protection of information related to its work is clearly provided for in the Act and is just as important to its mandate and to national security. 

President Ramaphosa said government will continue to respect the requirements of the law and its responsibility to safeguard the security of the nation. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 09:54

417 views
Read morePresident Ramaphosa: Panel findings on Lady R were “completely rational”

Suspects arrested for attacking police officers

Location: News

Suspects arrested for attacking police officers

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela has commended members of the Ekurhuleni District and Edenpark police stations for arresting perpetrators responsible for attacking the police on Thursday.

The suspects will be appearing before the Palmridge Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

In the early hours of this morning, at about 02:00, the police arrested five suspects including the driver of the car that the police had stopped in an attempt to search it before they were attacked.

The suspects, aged between 32 and 57, will be charged with obstructing police in the execution of their duties, attack on police officers, assault on police officers, attempted robbery of a firearm and the driver will face an additional charge of reckless and negligent driving.

The Provincial Commissioner has reiterated that those that seek to undermine the authority of the State will be dealt with decisively.

“Let this be a lesson to those that think they are above the law. We should all have a common goal of fighting crime, we cannot allow a situation where some members of the community believe they do not have to abide by the law and decide to obstruct law enforcement officers while they perform their constitutional mandate,” warned Lieutenant General Mawela. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 09:55

369 views
Read moreSuspects arrested for attacking police officers

Police seek public assistance to trace missing doctor

Location: News

Police seek public assistance to trace missing doctor

Maitland police are seeking the assistance of members of the public to help them trace 29-year-old Stefano Corso who was last seen by his colleagues on Wednesday afternoon.

He was a visiting doctor from Malta who was attending a medical seminar in Paarden Island at the time of his disappearance.

Reports suggest that he stepped out of the conference to attend to a phone call, but never returned.

Video footage available to SAPS shows him leaving the seminar. Attempts by his colleagues to reach him telephonically were unsuccessful. He has not been seen nor heard from since then. They then alerted the SAPS.

At the time of his disappearance he was wearing beige pants, a white t-shirt and a black jacket.

Anyone with any information on the whereabouts of Stefano or who can assist the investigating officer to trace him is requested to contact the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Melvyn Matthews, on 079 894 0092 or contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 10:04

410 views
Read morePolice seek public assistance to trace missing doctor

Health Department to introduce recent vaccines to improve existing coverage

Location: News

Health Department to introduce new vaccines to improve existing coverage

As part of efforts to improve coverage of existing vaccines, the Department of Health is set to introduce new vaccines to be included in the routine expanded program on immunisation at a cost of R3.5 billion.

Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, made the announcement during a media briefing following a meeting with Health MECs held in Centurion on Thursday.

Phaahla noted that South Africa continues to experience outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, despite a strong childhood vaccination programme.

He said there is an ongoing need to improve coverage of existing vaccines and add new vaccines to the expanded program on immunisation schedule. 

The Minister said the department is introducing a better packaged/derived vaccine that will prevent Whooping Cough, Tetanus and Diphtheria and reduce the chances of these conditions resurfacing within the communities. 

“We are also introducing a combination vaccine of measles and rubella that will protect young girls, particularly during pregnancy which may lead to birth defects,” Phaahla said. 

He said all these changes, recommended by the Ministerial-appointed National Advisory Group on Immunisation (NAGI), will be implemented with effect from January 2024. 

Expansion of online birth registrations rollout

The Minister also announced that the Department of Home Affairs has made budget provision for the set-up and operational costs for the expansion of Online Registration System by an additional 91 health facilities during 2023/24 financial year.  

This forms part of collaborative efforts between the Departments of Health and Home Affairs to ensure that all births are registered on time, through the Online Birth Registration system, which has been rolled in 161 health facilities with ability to issue birth certificates on the spot.

“These facilities will be allocated full-time Home Affairs officials to provide birth registration service during office hours. The establishment of the system in these new facilities will commence by the end of October 2023. This initiative will go a long way in providing early birth registration,” Phaahla said.

Integration of COVID-19 vaccinations into primary health services

Meanwhile, the Minister announced that the department has decided to make a number of changes related to COVID-19 vaccinations, which include transitioning from a mass vaccination campaign to integrate vaccination into routine primary health care services.

This is in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations.

Phaahla said the current available Pfizer vaccine stock purchased as part of the COVID-19 national vaccination rollout will expire at the end of October 2023, while the J&J vaccine doses will expire at the end of February 2024. 

The EVDS (Electronic Vaccination Data System) will continue to record all COVID-19 vaccinations until 29 February 2024, thereafter those vaccinated will receive a paper-record of vaccination, but they will still be able to download vaccination certificates as long as they have at least one vaccination code.

“The department plans to procure vaccines for administration in the public sector and will continue to work with the private sector to facilitate availability of vaccines. All restrictions limiting procurement of vaccines by private sector providers will be lifted,” Phaahla explained. 

He added that the investigation and causality assessment of COVID-19 vaccination-related Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFIs) will continue and mechanisms for processing No Fault Compensation Scheme claims will be retained. 

Phaahla also gave an update on various issues affecting the public health system, including cost containment measures; audit outcomes and performance against targets; medico-legal claims, among others. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

GabiK
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 10:44

568 views
Read moreHealth Department to introduce recent vaccines to improve existing coverage

Census 2022 shows decrease in orphans in the country

Location: News

Census 2022 shows decrease in orphans in the country

South Africa's Census 2022 national results has shown a decrease in the percentage of children aged 0-17 who are orphans in the country.

“KwaZulu-Natal observed the highest decrease in all orphanhood types from 2011 to 2022. Paternal orphans are highest in all censuses and provinces,” Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said.

The data from Census 2022, which Maluleke handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday in Pretoria, indicates that information on parental survival is collected in order to determine maternal or paternal orphanhood, and estimation of adult mortality.

In 2011, the stats for paternal orphans were at 12.1% while in 2022 they were at 8.9%, maternal orphans stood at 3.0% in 2011 and in 2022 they were at 2.3%.  Double orphans were at 3.9% in 2011 and they decreased to 2.5% in 2022. In 2011, non orphans were at 81.0% and in 2022 the figure stood at 86.2%.

“Comparison of Census 2011 and census 2022 showed that in both censuses, paternal orphanhood was more prevalent compared to maternal and double orphanhood. Trends show that there has been a decrease in orphanhood and this is the case for all the three types,” he said.

Non orphans are children 0-17 aged years whose both biological mother and father were still alive while paternal orphans are children 0-17 aged years whose biological fathers were no longer alive but their mothers were still alive.

Maternal orphans refer to children aged 0-17 years whose biological mothers were no longer alive but their fathers were still alive and double orphans are children aged 0-17 years who reported that both mother and father have died.

“Provincial variations in orphanhood showed that Eastern Cape (15.8%) and KwaZulu-Natal (15.5%) had the highest percentage of paternal orphans in both Censuses 2011 and 2022. In census 2022, Eastern Cape (3.4%), Free State (3.1%), North West (2.9% and Mpumalanga (2.6%) provinces had percentage of double orphans above the national average (2.5%),” Maluleke said.

Agricultural households

Census 2022 shows that 13.8% (2 463 429) of all households are agricultural households compared to 19.9% in 2011 (2 879 590).

Most of the households were involved in agriculture to produce ‘only for own consumption’ (1 988 825 or 80.7%) and ‘mainly for own consumption with some sale’ (189 371 or 7.7%).

Approximately 4.3% or 107 112 of agricultural households were producing ‘only for sale’.

“The major provinces contributing to the decrease are KwaZulu-Natal (-167 726 agricultural households), Eastern Cape (-114 846 agricultural households) and Free State (-65 522 agricultural households).

“Most of the agricultural households were in KwaZulu-Natal (24.9%), Eastern Cape (20.7%) and Limpopo (16.3%) in 2011. In 2022, KwaZulu-Natal (22.3%) still reported the highest percentage of agricultural households.

“However, Limpopo (21.1%) overtook Eastern Cape (19.6%). Northern Cape and Western Cape reported the lowest percentage of agricultural households in both 2011 and 2022,” Maluleke said.

The trends in percentage contribution by various population groups to total agricultural households remained largely the same in the two years.

Black African households (91.4% in 2011 and 90.8% in 2022) constituted the largest percentage of agricultural households, followed by white households (5.2% in both 2011 and 2022) in both years.

“Livestock and poultry production was the leading agricultural activity, reported in 959 365 (38.9%) households, followed by fruit or vegetable production (661 613 or 26,9%) and grains, food crops and industrial crops (650 096 or 26.4%).

“Eastern Cape (247 902 or 25.8%) and KwaZulu-Natal (247 043 or 25.8%) reported the highest number of households involved in livestock and poultry production. The leading provinces in the production of grains, food crops and industrial crops were Limpopo (250 463 or 38.5%) and KwaZulu-Natal (126 727 or 19.5%),” he said.

The main place used for household agricultural activity in 2022 was backyard (2 196 736 or 89.2%), followed by farm land (131 105 or 5.3%)

‘Other’, which includes schools and other public spaces, was reported by 51 007 households, and constituted the least reported place of agricultural activity.

“With the exception of chickens, Eastern Cape reported the highest numbers in all types of livestock ownership. Nationally, chickens (38.2 million) were the most numerous type of livestock kept at household level, followed by sheep (17.7 million) and cattle (12.3 million).

“The black African and white population groups were the most dominant in livestock and chicken farming. The highest number of cattle (7.7 million) and sheep (12.5 million) were reported in white-headed households, whereas most chickens (19.0 million), goats (4.9 million) and pigs (1.1 million) were reported in black African households,” Maluleke said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

 

nosihle
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 10:55

310 views
Read moreCensus 2022 shows decrease in orphans in the country

Modise extends words of comfort to families mourning soldiers who died in Lohatla fire

Location: News

Modise extends words of comfort to families mourning soldiers who died in Lohatla fire

Defence and Military Veterans Minister, Thandi Modise, has extended words of comfort to the six families who lost their loved ones in the wildfire that engulfed parts of the SA Army Combat Training Centre in Lohatla, Northern Cape, last week. 

“I am so sorry because it’s never easy to address people who have lost loved ones. I’m apologising because we’ll go and visit the graves. Yes, we’ll go and touch the stones. But that voice, hug, that laughter, will continue only in our hearts and only in our minds,” Modise said.  

The Minister was addressing mourners and fellow South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers who had gathered at the training centre to honour the deceased. 

The SANDF has since issued the names of the deceased members and they are Sergeant Abraham Desember Morajane, Staff Sergeant Sipho Berrington Cele, Corporal Sithembiso Wiseman Ndwalane, Corporal Noxolo Faith Ngubane, Lance Corporal Prince Michael Mthethwa and Lance Corporal Londiwe Purity Zulu.

The officials tragically lost their lives after the raging fire that started from a nearby mine destroyed sections of the camp where the soldiers were in preparation for the upcoming Exercise Vuk’uhlome, which is taking place this month until November.

“We will not be there to wipe every tear of a child who continuously asks the mom about the father. But we will be there to make sure that the child is well looked after and well educated. We will make sure that the names of those who gave their lives shall be remembered,” she added. 

She also had a word of encouragement to the widows and daughters who lost fathers. 

“I want to say to the mothers who have lost their sons and daughters who have lost their mothers, God always gives you what He knows you can carry.

“In whatever pain you may be feeling; the sun shall rise. We will take heart. The most painful is to lose a child when you are a parent because children are supposed to bury us.”

She said her department also stands with the children who will grow up without parents. 

“We will walk with you and hold your hands through the journey. Even though we haven’t met those who parted. It hurts because we become parents on your behalf when they’re on our premises. You will not walk alone.” 

Modise said they will ensure that the dependents are looked after and that the children go to school.  

She urged the widow with a two-year-old, Lerato Noxolo Cele, who lost her husband not to lose the memories but pass them on to her daughter.

Seargent Cele leaves behind a toddler that he and his wife battled for a decade to conceive.  

Modise told the packed hall that no life is taken for granted in the army. 

“We know that those who serve, serve at a place that sometimes takes life and sometimes rewards for keeping our heads above the water but also for ensuring that South Africa continues to do well.”

Meanwhile, the Minister said government will do everything in its power to ensure that the soldiers do not lose their lives through the elements such as fire. 

“Whatever this base needs, we will look at. We will also make sure that in our training, we take care and that in whatever contingency we’re ready to preserve the lives of those who are willingly giving up their lives in the name of this country.” 

She said government needs to ensure it has a well-trained and well-resourced force. 

“Because if we don’t, we might not have a country tomorrow,” she said. 

Modise also announced that the SANDF has launched an inquiry that will get to the bottom of the matter. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 11:04

217 views
Read moreModise extends words of comfort to families mourning soldiers who died in Lohatla fire

SARS, law enforcement agencies wreck coal syndicates

Location: News

SARS, law enforcement agencies break coal syndicates

A massive inter-governmental search and seizure operation across five provinces was carried out on Thursday to break the back of a sophisticated criminal syndicate of alleged coal-smugglers, who played a major role in exacerbating the energy crisis and loadshedding.

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) was the lead agency in yesterday’s search and seizure operation because information became available regarding a host of tax crimes allegedly committed by members of the coal-smuggling syndicate.

“This success of today’s (Thursday) operation is due to exceptional inter-governmental co-operation and information-sharing under the auspices of the NATJOINTS Energy Safety & Security Priority Committee tasked with unmasking and bringing to book the criminals that have caused economic hardship and personal hardship to all citizens of the country,” said the South African Revenue Services in a statement.

“It is due to such hard work, often behind the scenes, that leads to these investigative breakthroughs and ensures that South Africans can return to a lifestyle without loadshedding. These targeted operations also help to prevent the loss of revenue to the fiscus, which in this case amounted to more than R500-million,” SARS said.

According to SARS, the alleged coal-smugglers and their related entities are active and have a presence in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Limpopo.

The suspects targeted yesterday include former Eskom employees who facilitated procurement fraud, as well as other individuals involved in the diversion of high-grade coal.

SARS managed to establish links between individuals and related entities and confirmed possible gross contraventions from a tax perspective in terms:

  • Non-registration for Income Tax, VAT and/or PAYE.
  • Failure to submit tax returns.
  • Under-declaration of income.
  • Claiming undue VAT refunds.
  • Making false submissions (Fraud)

The sophisticated network of coal-smugglers is suspected to consist of local and foreign nationals. Coal trucks destined for power stations are diverted to designated coal yards where high-grade coal is replaced with low-grade or sub-standard product.

The high-grade coal is then exported or sold to willing buyers. The low-grade coal is often blended with scrap or other materials and then delivered to power stations.

The low-grade coal damages the infrastructure at the Eskom power stations, which is a major factor in crippling the power utility’s ability to generate electricity for the South African grid.

SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter commended the country’s law enforcement agencies for this massive breakthrough in ongoing investigations.

“It is because of such naked greed that the country has experienced unprecedented loadshedding, which harms business, undermines foreign direct investment and leads to job losses – all of which negatively affect revenue collection,” he said.

“All law enforcement agencies must continue their aggressive fight against criminality, each according to its mandate. For its part, SARS will continue to pursue taxpayers involved in intentional and wilful non-compliance – without fear, favour or prejudice,” Kieswetter said.

SARS is encouraged that the message is clear and unequivocal to all those involved in organised crime – you will be hunted down and brought to book. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 11:34

123 views
Read moreSARS, law enforcement agencies wreck coal syndicates

Kusile pollution exemption necessary as temporary measure

Location: News

Kusile pollution exemption necessary as temporary measure

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the granting of a postponement for Kusile Power Station to operate without sulphur dioxide pollution control technology does not deviate from the country’s firm affirmation to contribute to the global climate change efforts to reduce greenhouse gases.

President Ramaphosa said this while answering oral questions in the National Council of Provinces on Thursday.

“The granting of a postponement for Kusile Power Station to operate without sulphur dioxide pollution control technology was necessary as a temporary measure to enable the return to service of three units damaged in October last year.

“The granting of this postponement does not deviate from the country’s firm affirmation to contribute to the global climate change efforts in reducing greenhouse gases. 

“As a country, we are committed to a just transition to a low-carbon economy at a pace and scale that is affordable to us,” the President said. 

The President told the House that the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change recognises this need for a just transition and has allowed countries to nationally determine their contribution to a global effort to decarbonisation. 

“South Africa submitted its Nationally Determined Contribution to the UN in 2021 and as I have indicated previously, we remain firmly committed to achieving our target range for emission reduction. Data from our recent greenhouse gas inventory indicates that we are on track to do so.

“As part of the granting of the once-off postponement, Eskom must undertake measures to mitigate against the exposure of its employees and surrounding communities to harmful emissions. These measures must, at a minimum, include independent health screenings and referral to appropriate public health facilities for treatment where necessary,” the President said.

He said the end of load shedding and the achievement of energy security for all South Africans is not incompatible with the pursuit of the country’s emission reduction goals.

The President emphasised that the massive investment that is currently underway in renewable energy sources, alongside the stabilisation and improvement of our existing generation fleet, will help the country to achieve both of these goals simultaneously. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 10/13/2023 - 10:12

121 views
Read moreKusile pollution exemption necessary as temporary measure

Gauteng youth to benefit from free learner’s licence tests

Location: News

Gauteng youth to benefit from free learner’s licence tests

At least 40 000 youth in Gauteng are expected to benefit from the Gauteng Provincial Government’s “Wrong Side of the Road” campaign aimed at providing an opportunity to disadvantaged youth to get free learner’s licences.

“The Gauteng Provincial Government, in partnership with Diageo South Africa, presents an exciting opportunity for young people. Empowering Gauteng’s youth with free learner’s licences serves as a dual-purpose endeavour.

“It is the first phase towards obtaining a driver’s licence, which enhances employability. Additionally, this initiative actively promotes responsible driving during the learning stage, hopefully improving road safety, particularly against drinking and driving,” said Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi.

The provincial government explained that the initiative is in line with efforts to “bridge the unemployment gap and foster responsible attitudes towards alcohol use”.

This initiative is a step further to create a prosperous and safer Gauteng. According to recent statistics from Stats SA, the youth unemployment rate in South Africa remains alarmingly high, at 46.5% in the first quarter of 2023.

Additionally, alcohol misuse continues to be a significant contributor to road accidents through drinking and driving/walking.

“In response to these pressing challenges, Diageo South Africa has joined forces with the Office of the Premier of Gauteng, the Department of Roads and Transport, and the Department of Economic Development to address these issues holistically and bring about positive change.

“Themed ‘Wrong Side of the Road’, the campaign aims to assist youth with administrative fees for securing learner’s licences. To be considered, the participants need to be between the ages of 17 and 34 years and should reside in TISH (townships, informal settlements and hostels) in Gauteng,” the province said.

The province had targeted some 40 000 youth when the initiative was announced in August. However, more than 130 000 responses were received.

“The recruitment phase has concluded, with an overwhelming response from applicants. Those who have successfully progressed will receive the next steps of their journey via SMS and WhatsApp, which include watching a video and completing a short quiz related to understanding the effects of alcohol, and the shame and stigma associated with drunk driving.

“All steps must be completed to be eligible to receive your free learner’s licence booking. This includes your readiness to take the test and achieving an 80% pass rate using the K53 app. All entries will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Recognising that some applicants may face data limitations, the initiative encourages individuals to visit their local libraries, where free Wi-Fi access is available for the application process. Please note that only those names on the current recruitment list can continue the journey, and no further registrations will be accepted,” the province said.

Some 10 000 of the 40 000 learner’s licence opportunities will be reserved for motorbike licences, in support of the province’s Project Last-Mile.

“The Last-Mile project aims to license, train, mentor and connect young people to job opportunities. Those interested will receive training and assistance, including access to motorbikes (options include rent-to-own, rental or outright purchase) and contracts with industry-leading partners,” the provincial government said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 11:24

1258 views
Read moreGauteng youth to benefit from free learner’s licence tests

SIU welcomes R185m SABC security tender court ruling

Location: News

SIU welcomes R185m SABC security tender court ruling

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed two judgments by the High Court against former members of the interim board of the SABC and its decision to award a multimillion rand security tender to Mafoko Security Patrols Pty Ltd.

According to the SIU, the court ruled that the decision to award the R185 million physical security services tender is “invalid” and is “reviewed and set aside”.

“The interim board took a decision to award Mafoko a security tender for a period of five years commencing 1 August 2017 at a total contract price of R185 519 425.61, which was R2 300 955.43 more than the contract price for Mjayeli Security. Mjayeli was recommended by three tender committees to the board for appointment.

“In terms of the High Court judgment, Mafoko Security Patrols must, within 30 days, submit an audited statement of the expenses incurred in the performance of its obligations in terms of the tender, the income received and the net profit it would have earned at the expiry of the contract.

“The High Court also ordered the SABC to obtain an independent audited verification within 60 days. After that, the Court will determine the amount of profits to be paid back by Mafoko to the SABC or the SIU,” the unit said.

SIU head Advocate Andy Mothibi said: “The Court’s reference to the King Code on Good Governance underscores the requirements, as also provided for in the Public Finance Management Act, for the Boards of Directors to always act in the interest of State Institutions”.

In another judgement, the court dismissed an application by members of the former interim board, which sought to review and set aside a SIU report that recommended that they be declared delinquent.

The application was brought by former interim board members Khanyisile Kweyama, Mathatha Tsedu, Febe Potgieter-Gqubule and John Matisohn.

“The SIU investigation found that the interim board had irregularly awarded the security contract to Mafoko Security Services, and their action was wrongful and irregular. The SIU believes they were supposed to consider launching an investigation, cancel the tender, or remitting it for reconsideration. The SIU found that the interim board failed to discharge their fiduciary duties in that respect and failed to act in the best interests of the SABC.

“The interim board members argued that the SIU report was irrational, the SIU’s investigation was unconstitutional and contravened the principle of legality, and the SIU went beyond the scope of the President’s Proclamation. Furthermore, they contended that the SIU acted irrationally and procedurally unfairly and exceeded its powers in reaching the findings.

“However, the High Court dismissed the application and ruled that the SIU acted in accordance with the Proclamation by the President, which included investigating maladministration,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 12:03

531 views
Read moreSIU welcomes R185m SABC security tender court ruling

Significant gains in access to education

Location: News

Significant gains in access to education

Government’s policies geared at tackling school dropouts and increasing the completion of secondary schooling are producing positive results - as persons aged 20 years and older with no formal education reduced from 19.1% in 1996 to 6.9% in 2022.

This is according to South Africa's Census 2022 national results, which was handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa by Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Tuesday.

“Furthermore, persons aged 20 years and older with some primary education decreased from 16.6% in 1996 to 7.4% in 2022. Over the period, there has been a noteworthy increase in the number of persons completing secondary education (16.3% in 1996 to 37.6% in 2022) and post-school education (7.1% in 1996 to 12.2% in 2022).

“In 2011 and 2022, business, economics and management sciences and education were dominated by females, while males continue to dominate in engineering as well as electrical infrastructure studies,” Maluleke said.

He said post-apartheid South Africa has experienced an expansion in the completion of secondary schooling for previously disadvantaged population groups.

“South Africa has geared up to intensify its measures through policy reforms to tackle school dropouts and increase completion of secondary schooling.  However, race disparity in educational attainment intersects with other forms of disadvantage, including poverty and the urban-rural divide,” Maluleke said.

Considering the relatively high children and youth population due to the demographic dividends of the country, concerted efforts have been made by government to expand the education system.

This had been done through establishing more institutions, especially in the Early childhood development (ECD) sector, giving much-required attention to remote and rural areas, introducing new and skill-based programmes in institutions and providing funding such as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for disadvantaged learners planning to undertake higher education.

“The period between 1996 to 2001 showed a large increase in the percentage of young children under the age of compulsory education participating in education (23.1 percentage points among 5-year-olds and 21.2 percentage points among 6-year-olds).

“However, it is the decade between 2001 and 2011 that showed an unprecedented increase in participation among 5-year-olds with a rise of 35.5 percentage points in participation from 45.6% to 81.1%. Furthermore, nearly nine out of ten (92.4%) children of this age were attending educational institutions in 2022, which is a nearly 70 percentage points increase from 1996,” Maluleke said.

He said among 6-year-olds, less than half (49.1%) were attending educational institutions in 1996 but subsequently increased by 21.2 percentage points in 2001.

“The data also show high attendance rates among 6–7-year-olds in 2022, who would most likely be attending Grade R. However, the attendance rate starts to decline by age 15, with only six out of ten (59.9%) 18-year-olds attending educational institutions in 2022; a reduction from 75.7% in 1996,” Maluleke said.

In 1996, more than half (54.6%) of the 20-year-olds were in education, which reduced to 37.0% in 2022.

ECD programme

In South Africa, 3.4 million children aged 0 - 4 years attended ECD programmes in 2022, of which 2.5 million attended a crèche/educare centre or pre-school/nursery school/Grade 00/Grade 000/Grade R.

“About 570 000 children had parents who preferred that they stay with day mothers/gogos/childminders. The majority of children attending ECD programmes were attending a crèche/educare centre (59.8%) while 12.2% attended pre-school/nursery school/Grade 00/Grade 000/Grade R.

“Close to 27.0% of children stayed either with day mothers/gogos/childminders or participated in home/community playgroups. While more than 3 million black African children attended ECD programmes, seven out of ten (72,3%) attended ECD facilities, with 60,7% attending a crèche/educare centre and 11,6% attending pre-school/nursery school/Grade 00/Grade 000/Grade R.

“By contrast, among white children 83.4% attended ECD facilities with one-third (32.5%) attending pre-school/nursery school/Grade 00/Grade 000/Grade R and the rest attending a crèche/educare centre (50.9%). Close to 17.0% of black African children stayed with day mothers/gogos/childminders,” he said.

Maluleke also noted the use of day mothers/gogos/childminders for childcare was also high among Indians/Asians (19.6%).

Among coloured children, close to 19.0% participated in home/community playgroups. Results showed that there were slight differences between sexes.

An analysis of persons aged 5–24 shows that overall, the percentage of individuals attending an educational institution increased by three percentage points between 1996 and 2022.

“Attendance increased to almost universal level between 1996 and 2022 for children aged 5 years and 6 years, while the attendance rate starts to decline by age 15–24 over the same period. Attendance also increased for black Africans, coloureds and whites over the period, while Indians/Asians showed little change,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 13:45

457 views
Read moreSignificant gains in access to education

Partnerships key to prosperity, job formation for youth, says Deputy President

Location: News

Partnerships key to prosperity, job creation for youth, says Deputy President

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says partnerships between business and government are key to strengthening economic recovery and creating thousands of jobs in the energy, transport and logistics sectors.

“We must never undermine the importance of our efforts through structures such as NEDLAC [National Economic Development and Labour Council] and others, because it is indeed through these social compacts that we can further develop our country and empower South Africans,” Mashatile said on Thursday.

Speaking at the 7th Annual Solutions Exchange Conference in Johannesburg, Mashatile said government is encouraged by the pledges signed with 115 CEOs, who have demonstrated their willingness to help to implement some of the interventions undertaken towards socio-economic transformation.

Mashatile said the Department of Employment and Labour has spearheaded the National Pathway Management Network, which is a networking initiative that has brought together over 30 diverse partners to aggregate opportunities from across the economy.

He said the network enables young people to find earning and learning opportunities, enter the labour market and receive the support that they require to establish their own businesses at no cost.

“The SA Youth platform launched by Harambee, through the National Pathway Management Network, has over 4.1 million young people registered and is the largest platform in this network.

“This is an inclusive platform that uses cutting-edge technology such as geo-mapping, which allows for youth to be matched with opportunities closer to their residence, thereby saving transport and other costs.

“It is indeed this niche innovation that has made it possible for young people, who live further away from the economic hubs, to also access economic opportunities, and kick-start their entry into the labour market,” the Deputy President said.

Mashatile said young people have been supported to secure over one million opportunities on the system from over 1 000 opportunity holders.

“Our government remains committed to increasing private sector investment in order to promote job creation. To accomplish this, we have facilitated an investment drive with an initial target of R1.2 trillion over a five-year period.

“We have since mobilised nearly R1.5 trillion in investment commitments, therefore exceeding this goal and many of these investment commitments are expected to translate into actual employment,” he said.

He said the South African economy currently employs 5.1 million youth, 3.4 million of whom are employed in the formal economy.

“As we work closely with the business community to create jobs for our youth, we must not forget the power of entrepreneurship. The State has the responsibility to collaborate with business and the people in co-creating strong economies that enable development to occur,” the Deputy President said.

Mashatile said as leaders of government, business and civil society, they believe in the youth of South Africa, whose contributions will be critical in shaping the future of the economy. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 14:00

306 views
Read morePartnerships key to prosperity, job formation for youth, says Deputy President

President: South Africa derives worthy benefit from BRICS membership

Location: News

President: South Africa derives great benefit from BRICS membership

“Rest assured, BRICS is a great benefit to our country and it’s an association that we are very proud of and that we intend to continue with.”

These were the words of President Cyril Ramaphosa as he fielded questions in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on the benefits of South Africa being part of the BRICS group of countries.

The group is now known as the BRICS Plus group following the addition of six new member countries - namely Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

“We, as a country, have benefitted a great deal [through] the association with other BRICS countries. China today is our largest trading partner and this has largely been cemented, upheld and encouraged by our membership of BRICS,” President Ramaphosa said on Thursday.

The President said South Africa continues to reap economic benefits from its association with the group, with talks during bilateral events going beyond political engagement.

“Indeed, many other BRICS members, who have now been admitted, are going to find that BRICS is an important forum that goes beyond just the political engagements at that level but also involves economic development, trade extension, technology extension and many other beneficial areas that advance humanity.

“[Just] the association in BRICS leads to a great deal of economic benefits for our country and we have seen such. Our trade with BRICS countries has grown in leaps and bounds, and many of the areas in which our trade has grown has been by virtue of being associated in BRICS. So there is a clear economic benefit there,” he said.

The President said the expansion of the BRICS group of countries, up from five members to 11, will give a “great boost, particularly to the Global South”.

He hinted at the possible further expansion of the group, which would give further credence to the group’s growing influence in global matters.

“We are, as it is now, going to consider membership applications from many other countries that want to be part of BRICS. So BRICS continues to grow. It continues to grow in importance, economically, politically, as well as [where] trade is concerned.

“BRICS is the great attraction that many countries now see for development and we want to keep BRICS as an important forum, as an important partnership that progresses countries that are associated with it or part of it,” he said.

Answering a question on the financial impact of South Africa’s hosting of the BRICS Summit in August, President Ramaphosa insisted that the economic benefits outweigh the costs.

“The summit that we held here was… a hugely successful summit and we are proud that the people of South Africa were part of it, embraced it and also enabled it to happen here on South African soil.

“The mere holding of a summit as large as the BRICS Summit – and this, by any measure, was the biggest BRICS Summit – brings together a huge number of people, many of whom come to South Africa either for the first time, and they come to spend their money here.

“One country alone, China, brought up to 600 people who, due to their presence here, needed beds to sleep in, needed food and transportation, etc,.. Many other countries brought a number of delegates just to come and attend.

“When you have an event like that, it inevitably leads to an economic benefit immediately because many of these people come with money from their own countries to spend here, so it increases the number of people who work,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 15:17

240 views
Read morePresident: South Africa derives worthy benefit from BRICS membership

92.1% of SA population owns a cellphone

Location: News

92.1% of SA population owns a cellphone

South Africa's Census 2022 national results has shown an upward trend in ownership of refrigerators, televisions and cellphones.  

“The overwhelming majority (92.1%) of households in the country owned a cellphone in working order, a notable increase from the 3.3% in 2001. Just under four-fifths (79%) of households owned televisions compared to the 52.6% in 2001,” Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said.

Furthermore, the data from Census 2022, which he handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday in Pretoria, shows that the ownership of a refrigerators/freezers increased from 53.8% in 2001 to 83.2% in 2022.

“In contrast, households owning a radio decreased significantly from 73% in 2001 to 50.3% in 2022. In addition, there is a downward trend in households that owned a landline telephone over the period 2001–2022,” Maluleke said.

Households residing in formal dwellings

The report noted that there has been an upward trend in households residing in formal dwellings - an increase of almost 24 percentage points (from 65.1% in 1996 to 88.5% in Census 2022).

Formal dwellings include formal houses with a brick/concrete structure, flats and apartments, cluster houses, townhouses, semi-detached houses or any formal dwelling situated in a backyard, such as a room or garden cottage where a household or single person resides.

“The proportion of households that resided in informal dwellings halved (from 16.2% in 1996 to 8.1% in 2022). In 2022, just over two-fifths (41.6%) of the dwellings that households resided in were owned and fully paid off, with similar proportions recorded in 2001 and 2011.

“The proportion of households that occupied their dwellings rent-free increased from 18.6% in 2011 to 25.6% in 2022, while rented dwellings decreased slightly from 25% in 2011 to 23.2% in 2022. Only 6.6% of households resided in dwellings that were owned but not fully paid off (for example, those still repaying a bond to the bank), declining from 11.8% in 2011,” he said.

Households were asked whether the dwelling they resided in was a government-subsidised dwelling or RDP.

“Two-fifths (40%) of households in the Northern Cape reported that they resided in government subsidised dwelling/RDP housing, only slightly higher than the proportion of households in the Free State (37.6%). Households in Limpopo recorded the lowest proportion of government subsidised dwelling/RDP housing (18.3%), well below the national average of 29.9%,” Maluleke said.

Access to internet

Generally, there has been an upward trend in access to internet services over the period 2011–2022.

Maluleke attributed this to rapid advancement in communication services, such as cellphone ownership.

“Overall, households with no access to internet decreased threefold (from 64.8% in 2011 to 21.1% in 2022). A substantial percentage of households reported accessing internet mainly through a cellphone or other mobile device (60.5%) compared to 16.3% recorded in 2011.

“There was an increase in the percentage of households accessing internet mainly at home, from 8.6% in 2011 to 13.3% in 2022. It is also noted that households accessing internet mainly using other methods decreased significantly. Households accessing internet mainly at work decreased by four percentage points (from 4.7% in 2011 to 0.3% in 2022),” he said.

Migration

The Census 2022 shows that there has been an increase in the number of the population born outside South Africa.

“The results indicate that there were more male immigrants compared to females. Furthermore, the prevalent ages of migrants were between ages 20 and 44 years, suggesting that young adults are more likely to migrate than children and the elderly.

“In Census 2011, males aged 25–29 reported the highest number of immigrants with 260 885, whilst in 2022 male immigrants aged 30–34 (235 297) numbered the highest.

“The top five sending countries remained the same between the two censuses (Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho, Malawi, and the United Kingdom). India also maintained the 2011 rank in 2022. Namibia, Eswatini, Somalia, Portugal and Germany went down the rank in 2022,” Maluleke said.

Countries that moved up the rank were: Ethiopia, Nigeria, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Bangladesh, Botswana, and Pakistan.

China is the only country that moved out of the top 20 sending countries in 2022. Whereas Ghana is the new entry into the top 20 sending countries in 2022. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 14:17

188 views
Read more92.1% of SA population owns a cellphone

Launch of BMA a step in the factual direction in securing South Africa’s borders

Location: News

Launch of BMA a step in the right direction in securing South Africa’s borders

By Dr Michael Masiapato, PhD.

The Musina heat of 37°C gathered thousands of attendees to witness the historic launch of the Border Management Authority (BMA).

The Border Management Authority aims to ensure that South African borders are less porous and more efficient in facilitation of trade as well as ensuring the legitimate movement of goods and people.  South Africa has 72 ports of entry comprising of 53 land ports, 10 aviation or international airports and 9 marine (sea) ports. Over and above managing the 72 ports of entry, we are managing the vulnerable segments of our border lines and community crossing points.

The initial multi-departmental approach we had for the past 29 years was a major challenge, where a number of Departments were operating at the borders.  You had the Department of Home Affairs doing immigration; the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment doing biosecurity functions, the Department of Agriculture doing agriculture functions and also the Department of Health responsible for port health functions. In the previous years we had independent managers of those four departments operating at the ports and reporting back to their various departments. This was over and above the operations of the South African Revenue Services (SARS) facilitating port customs, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) responsible for border policing functions.

There was a necessity to bring a border management model where these port functions of the four Departments are integrated. The model involved the port related functions exiting those Departments and reporting to the Border Management Authority under one command. The need for an integrated and co-ordinated border management was in accordance with the Constitution, international and domestic law, in order to contribute to the socio-economic development of the Republic.

In order to empower the BMA to be effective, it was then created as a law enforcement authority, which became the third armed service in South Africa after SANDF and SAPS. The mandate of the BMA is clear in ensuring the prevention of smuggling and trafficking of human beings and goods; preventing illegal cross-border movement; contributing to the protection of the Republic’s environmental and natural resources; and protecting the Republic from harmful and infectious diseases, pests and substances. In July 2022, the first 221 officers were deployed as BMA Border Guards at vulnerable segments of the border line, including the informal community crossing points. Its formal establishment and assumption of its status as an autonomous schedule 3 (A) public entity was conferred on 1 April 2023. This being one of the most important authorities, it was necessary for President Cyril Ramaphosa, as Commander-in-Chief of the South Africa’s armed forces to preside over the launch of the Border Management Authority.

Subsequent to that, and additional 400 BMA Border Guards including 50 Coast guards are being recruited to ensure that the entity is effective and efficient at all border posts. In order to maintain the BMA integrity and based on the many corruption challenges that were faced in the past, section 13 of the BMA Act requires that all border management officials be fully vetted and regular lifestyle audits to be conducted.

To assist with technological support on Border Management operations, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi recently announced the issuing of the Request for Proposal to the market for the redesigning and redevelopment of our top six busiest ports of entry. The primary intention is to ensure the realisation of regional economic integration in the SADC region, while facilitating the realisation of African Continental Free Trade Area. The re-developed ports of entry will result in the efficient cross-border management of movement of people, goods and services, improved revenue collection and preventing harmful imports and exports.

The six earmarked ports of entry are:

  • Beitbridge - Zimbabwe
  • Lebombo - Mozambique
  • Maseru Bridge – Lesotho
  • Ficksburg - Lesotho
  • Kopfontein - Botswana
  • Oshoek - Eswatini

These ports were earmarked in order to address the congestion, based on being the largest and busiest by traffic volume.

The re-designing project is expected to create an estimated 38 000 jobs in areas around the six designated ports of entry.

The BMA is a vital link in our efforts to harness the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Despite serious challenges faced before, the BMA will provide a sustainable solution to the structural challenges of border security, control and coordination. It is intended that this new approach will adapt and respond effectively to the challenges, threats and opportunities that exist in the Border environment whilst safe-guarding South Africa’s borders and meeting the country’s national, regional and global development responsibilities and human rights imperatives.
* Dr Michael Masiapato is the Commissioner and CEO of the Border Management Authority.

Matona
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 13:44

137 views
Read moreLaunch of BMA a step in the factual direction in securing South Africa’s borders

Census 2022 shows improvement in basic services   

Location: News

Census 2022 shows improvement in basic services   

South Africa’s first digital census shows an increase in the proportion of households that had access to piped water inside their dwelling, from 32.3% in 2001 to 46.3% in 2011 and to 59.7% in 2022.

This is according to the South Africa's Census 2022 national results, which was handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa by Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Tuesday.

The data shows that in 2022 over four-fifths (82.4%) of households in the country had access to piped water either inside their dwelling or inside their yard.

“The proportion of households that accessed piped water off-site (from a water source outside the yard such as a neighbour or from a community stand) halved from 17.9% in 2011 to 8.9% in 2022.

“Households in the Western Cape were more likely to have piped water inside their dwelling (85.5%) compared to Limpopo, where less than one-third (31.4%) accessed piped water inside their dwelling.

“Although the national picture regarding access to piped water shows improvement over the years, there is a sizeable proportion of households in Limpopo (20.5%) and Eastern Cape (19.5%) with no access to piped water.

“The majority of households across the three censuses made use of a regional/local water scheme as their main source of water. This proportion increased steadily from 74.7% in 2001 to 79.7% in 2011 and to 82.7% in 2022,” Maluleke said.

There has been an increase in the percentage of households that used a flush toilet as their main type of toilet facility during this period (+18.9 percentage points).

However, the percentage of households that used a pit toilet without ventilation and households with no form of toilet facility declined during the same period, from 22.8% to 12.5% and from 13.6% to 1.6% respectively

Energy

The proportion of households using electricity as the main source of energy for lighting increased significantly from 58.1% in 1996 to 94.7% in 2022; conversely, the use of paraffin and candles as the main source of energy for lighting decreased.

Electricity was the main source of energy for lighting across all provinces.

In 1996, 28.8% of households utilised candles for lighting compared to the 3.2% in 2022.

The use of paraffin declined, with only 0.9% of households using it for lighting compared to the 12.7% in 1996.

“It is noted that the country recorded an upward trend in refuse removed by a local authority regularly, an increase from 52% in 1996 to 66% in 2022. Approximately two-thirds (66.3%) of households in the country had their refuse removed by a local authority once a week whilst one in four households used their own refuse dump (22.3%).

“The percentage of households with no refuse removal or using their own refuse dump both decreased over the same period. In 1996, 32.6% of households used their own refuse dump and 9.7% did not have any refuse removal,” he said.

In 2022, households using their own refuse dump decreased to 22.3% and those with no refuse removal halved to 4.5%

SA population

According to South Africa's Census 2022 national results, the population increased from 40.5 million in 1996 to just over 62 million in 2022; an increase of over 21.4 million people in 26 years.

“Black Africans remain consistently the dominant population group at a proportion of more than 80%, followed by the coloured and white populations at 8.2% and 7.3% in 2022, respectively.

“On the other hand, the Indian/Asian population comprised less than 3% of the population over the years. The age-sex structure indicates some decline in the ages between 0 and 29 years when compared to the 2011 distribution,” Maluleke said.

The sex ratio in the country decreased from 98.8 in 2011 to 94.1 in 2022. Gauteng reported the highest ratio at 101.8 in 2022, suggesting that there are more males than females in the province compared to the other provinces.

“Furthermore, the median age in the country was 28 years in 2022, showing an increase of three years from 25 years in 2011. It was highest in the Western Cape and lowest in Limpopo at 31 and 26 years, respectively.

“The median age of the white population was 45 years while that of the black African population was 27 years in 2022. The majority (62.2%) of the population has never been married, while 24% indicated that they are legally married,” Maluleke said.

The population and housing census was conducted in February 2022 and provides comprehensive data on population size, demographic trends, and other service delivery related information. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 10:54

15 views
Read moreCensus 2022 shows improvement in basic services   

AFU freezes millions in assets related to alleged PPE corruption case

Location: News

AFU freezes millions in assets related to alleged PPE corruption case

The National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) Asset Forfeiture Unit has obtained a preservation order against assets related to a PPE matter worth R27 million in the Northern Cape.

The order was granted against the assets of well-known Kimberley businessman Somandla Sibisi and his companies Macronym 37 and Aphiwokuhle Holdings.

The frozen assets include a residential property bought for some R900 000, a business property – known as Live Café – bought for more than R2 million, kitchen equipment bought for over R300 000 and a 2013 model Audi A1 car bought for R130 000.

NPA regional spokesperson, Mojalefa Senokoatsane, explained that the vehicle and property were allegedly bought with “the proceeds of the money received from the Northern Cape Department of Health” through PPE related tenders.

“This preservation order emanates from a case where…Sibisi, who is accused number nine, his company is accused number eight, in the Department of Health Northern Cape PPE-related matter amounting to more than R26 million, made his first appearance together with other twelve co-accused on 11 October 2023, in the Kimberley Magistrates’ Court.

“The accused are facing charges of Contravention of Provisions of Section 86(1) of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), fraud, corruption, forgery, money laundering, uttering, and defeating or obstructing the course of justice concerning the amount of more than R26.9 million.

“The preservation order, the arrest as well and the appearance in court flow from a multi-disciplinary exertion by the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU), the Special Commercial Crimes Unit (SCCU), the Special Investigation Unit (SIU), and the Directorate of Priority Crimes Unit (DPCI),” he said.

Sibisi’s co-accused in the case are:

  • Northern Cape Department of Health former Head of the Department Dr Dion Theys
  • The department’s former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the department Mosimanegape Gaborone
  • Director of Supply Chain Management Montgomery Lifa Faas
  • Deputy Director of Finance Victor Nyokong
  • Director: Administration Assistant of Supply Chain Management Siyabulela Booi
  • Retired Deputy Director Nursing Directorate: Communicable Diseases Elizabeth Dibueng Manyetsa
  • Assistant Director Directorate: Communicable Diseases Goitsemodimo Piet Moseki
  • Macronym 37 (PTY) LTD
  • Administrative Clerk working for Macronym 37 (PTY) LTD Cleopatra Norman
  • Employee of Macronym 37 (PTY) LTD Macdonald Mampe,
  • Masedi Star (PTY) LTD a private company with limited liability
  • Director of Masedi Star (PTY) LTD Obakeng Samane

“These assets will be preserved awaiting an application by the AFU for the final forfeiture to the State. Dr Dion Theys, Mosimanegape Gaborone, Montgomery Lifa Faas, Victor Nyokong, Siyabulela Booi, Elizabeth Dibueng Manyetsa, Goitsemodimo Piet Moseki, are also out on bail in another Department of Health Northern Cape PPE-related matter amounting to more than R16 million,  that will be back in the Kimberley District Court on 16 October 2023,” Senokoatsane concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 09:31

331 views
Read moreAFU freezes millions in assets related to alleged PPE corruption case

Ekurhuleni residents, businesses urged to be water wise

Location: News

Ekurhuleni residents, businesses urged to be water wise

The City of Ekurhuleni has urged residents and businesses to implement water-saving measures, while work continues to increase water storage levels in some areas. 

“The more we save water by implementing simple interventions daily, we reduce the threat of water cuts in the future,” City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, said

Water supply has been interrupted in multiple areas due to low supply from the bulk supplier, Rand Water, and of late, increased demand from customers. 

Dlamini said technicians are working to maintain supply to all residents during this peak demand season. 

“The city has identified supply zones that are the highest contributors to its water demand. Water demand management interventions such as pressure management will be implemented in those areas with immediate effect to minimize the impact on residents. 

“Water is a critical natural resource that cannot be produced or recreated. It is therefore in the interest of all consumers to safeguard its availability for the benefit of everyone including future generations,” he said.

Dlamini added that Ekurhuleni’s technical team remains on high alert in monitoring the water infrastructure with special attention being given to the areas, including Tsakani, Etwatwa, Daveyton, Primrose, Germiston and KwaThema, which experienced massive water shortages in recent weeks.

“Meanwhile, some parts of Brakpan which are supplied by Rand Water continue to experience intermittent water supply due to the low levels in the reservoirs. However, different strategies are being implemented to ensure that the system normalises as soon as possible,” Dlamini said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 10/12/2023 - 10:16

80 views
Read moreEkurhuleni residents, businesses urged to be water wise