SA News

9 October 2023

Police dealing decisively with crime ahead of festive season: Masemola

Location: News

Police dealing decisively with crime ahead of festive season: Masemola

The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has reassured that police will continue to deal decisively with criminals ahead of the busy festive season.

Through Operation Shanela, police continue to “dislodge and disrupt activities of organised crime syndicates” linked to serious and violent crimes, especially aggravated armed robberies such as cash-in-transit (CIT) heists.

Masemola said police remain on course to sniff out more syndicates. He said police “will not negotiate with criminals”.

“We are tailoring our operations to ensure that a strong presence of police is felt on the ground. We are investing in our police to ensure they are operationally ready and have the required resources,” Masemola said.

In the latest takedown operation, Gauteng police arrested four suspects linked to a CIT robbery, which took place in Kaalfontein, near Tembisa.

The suspects were traced to various addresses in Tembisa. In their possession, police found a Mercedes Benz alleged to be used as a getaway vehicle, dye stained money, explosives and an AK47.

In their preliminary investigation, the police have established that the Mercedes Benz that has been recovered was hijacked in Springs earlier this year. The owner of the vehicle will be traced and informed accordingly.

In KwaZulu-Natal, four suspects were shot and killed during a confrontation with police at a home utilised as a safe haven for the syndicate in KwaMashu on Friday morning.

In their possession, police found four firearms including an AK47, explosives and false vehicle number plates.

The Hawks also arrested a 38-year-old Zimbabwean national, who was found with explosives on Friday morning. The team was following up on information when a bus from Zimbabwe, heading to Johannesburg, was pulled over on the N14.

The team is investigating the possibility of such explosives being utilised in the spate of CITs in the country. Investigations continue to trace the origin of the explosives and where they were destined.

The police are also appealing to communities not to pick up money at CIT crime scenes, as this amounts to theft and defeating the ends of justice.

According to the police, CIT crime scenes are dangerous and can also pose a risk for the loss of life.

High-density operations are being intensified through regular roadblocks, stop and searches and the tracing of wanted suspects across the country to ensure the safety and security of all people living in South Africa.

“Day in and day out, we are taking down these criminals one by one! These takedowns must serve as a deterrent to those involved in these aggravated robberies. We are ushering in the festive season and we are prepared to deal decisively with crime and criminals in all forms and shape,” Masemola said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 11:33

213 views

9 October 2023

DWS withdraws government waterworks draft regulations

Location: News

DWS withdraws government waterworks draft regulations

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has announced the withdrawal of the proposed regulations relating to access and use of government waterworks and surrounding State-owned land for recreational purposes.

The draft regulations were published in the Government Gazette on 24 March 2023, for a second round of public comments to solicit inputs from various stakeholders and members of the public who have interests in accessing and using the departmental infrastructures for recreational purposes.

“The draft regulations were withdrawn after considering the public comments received during public consultations as well as from written comments. Newly proposed regulations will be reissued once the reviewing process is concluded,” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 11:59

125 views

9 October 2023

Operation Shanela continues to disrupt criminal activities

Location: News

Operation Shanela continues to disrupt criminal activities

Through the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Operation Shanela, at least 124 suspects and 137 daily wanted suspects were arrested for committing various crimes over the past weekend.

Operation Shanela's disruptive actions were executed in hotspot areas across the Northern Cape province which included vehicle checkpoints, stop and searches, blue light and foot patrols, compliance inspections and tracing of wanted suspects by detectives across the province.

The outstanding success includes the arrest of two males, age 28 and 36, for possession of stolen property valued at R43 000 after the Kimberley Crime Prevention Unit received information of a tuckshop selling branded goods in bulk belonging to a local supermarket.

The police in Delportshoop recovered and confiscated a stolen vehicle and arrested a 62-year-old male for theft of a motor vehicle after the police were alerted by a tracking company about a stolen vehicle that was stationary around Ulco mine.

Another two male suspects, aged 37 and 40, were arrested and charged under the Northern Cape Nature Conservation Act 9/2009 sec 50 & 51 for alleged illegal possession of endangered plants on the R382 road between Steinkopf and Port Nolloth.

A white Isuzu Double Cab bakkie was stopped and searched and police confiscated ten 50kg bags containing 4485 Conophytum Bilobum plants.

Police also confiscated the Isuzu bakkie as it was allegedly utilized in the commission of a crime.

During the operation, the following items, such as alcoholic beverages, dangerous weapons, drugs including crystal meth, dagga mandrax and tik were confiscated.

A total of 56 compliance inspections at second-hand dealers, liquor outlets and premises, formal and informal businesses, farms and mines were executed.

Numerous roadblocks were conducted across the province during which 25 vehicle checkpoints and eight roadblocks were conducted which resulted in 1631 vehicles stopped and searched and 4637 persons searched.

Police across the province also conducted routine visits at ATM's, business premises, National Key Points, Post Offices and tuckshops.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, congratulated all SAPS personnel and other law enforcement agencies for ensuring that those who violated the laws are confronted and dealt with decisively.

She also appreciated community structures for their role and assistance in the fight against crime. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 11:17

91 views

8 October 2023

President Ramaphosa mourns soldiers who perished in military vulgar fire

Location: News

President Ramaphosa mourns soldiers who perished in military base fire

As the Commander-in-Chief of the nation’s armed forces, President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his profound sadness at the the deaths of six soldiers who died in a Northern Cape fire.

This comes after a blaze that struck the SA Army Combat Training Centre at the Lohatla military base on Friday.

The troops, according to the Presidency, were part of a military exercise named Vukuhlome.

“The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) announced on Saturday that a wildfire that had originated in Khathu in the Gamagara Local Municipality had reached the military base where six soldiers died in the blaze while three were injured and the army lost equipment including vehicles,” said the Presidency on Sunday.

President Ramaphosa has since offered his deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased SANDF members.

“The President wishes the injured SANDF members a speedy and comfortable recovery and his thoughts are with survivors who witnessed this tragedy,” said the Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 11:15

1145 views

8 October 2023

Condolences for Eswatini top cop

Location: News

Condolences for Eswatini top cop

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced the passing of Eswatini Police Commissioner William Dlamini, who passed away on Saturday morning at OR Tambo International Airport.

The top cop, according to a SAPS statement, was in transit to Eswatini from Angola where he attended the 26th Interpol African Regional Conference.

“The Commissioner collapsed and died at the airport. Both the family and the delegation that accompanied the late Commissioner on his official trip have received psychosocial services from psychologists attached to the SAPS Employee Health and Wellness unit,” the statement read.

National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has since on behalf of the SAPS sent his condolences to the Royal Eswatini Police Service as well as the family of Dlamini.

Masemola described Dlamini as a soft-spoken and committed senior police officer who was dedicated to enhancing cooperation to counter transnational organised crime in the region.

“Our sincerest condolences to the Royal Eswatini Police Service and the family of the late Commissioner. Commissioner Dlamini was humble and dedicated to the cause of serving.

“He was always available to discuss collaboration in preventing and combating cross-border crime in the SADC region. The SAPS is providing the necessary support in line with its expertise through its Interpol office,” said Masemola.

Police at the airport have also registered an inquest docket to determine the cause of death. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 12:06

456 views

8 October 2023

SA calls for terminate to violence between Israel, Palestine

Location: News

SA calls for end to violence between Israel, Palestine

South Africa has called for the immediate cessation of violence, restraint, and peace between Israel and Palestine.

According to a Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) statement, South Africa is gravely concerned over the recent devastating escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“The new conflagration has arisen from the continued illegal occupation of Palestine land, continued settlement expansion, desecration of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and Christian holy sites, and ongoing oppression of the Palestinian people,” the department said on Saturday.

The region, according to DIRCO, is in desperate need of a credible peace process that delivers on the calls of a “plethora” of previous United Nations (UN) resolutions for a two-state solution and a just and comprehensive peace between Israel and Palestine.

“South Africa, working together with the international community, seeks to ensure a lasting and durable peace that produces a viable, contiguous Palestinian State, existing side-by-side in peace with Israel, within the 1967 internationally recognised borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.”

The department believes that the UN resolutions and international law matter.

“The international community cannot avoid its duty to act, and together, we must shoulder the responsibility to remove obstacles to peace and any violations of international law.”

The department said violence, killings, imprisonment, forced removals, illegal settlements, and the continued siege of Gaza are not conducive to resolving the conflict.

“Urgent attention must be given to resolving the final status issues such as borders, the status of Jerusalem, the release of political prisoners, and the right of return.

“No real and lasting peace in Israel, Palestine, and the region is possible in the absence of a just and comprehensive resolution of the conflict. Israelis, Palestinians, and the region do not stand to gain anything from escalated tensions, increased violence, growing instability, and a continued and protracted violent conflict.”

The department has since called on all sides to seize the opportunity for peace as opposed to violence, and for the international community to actively rise on the side of its international resolutions and establish a credible peace process.

“South Africa stands ready to share its experience in mediation and conflict resolution as it has done on the continent and around the world.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 12:47

527 views

8 October 2023

Phaahla to lead World Mental Health Day commemoration

Location: News

Phaahla to lead World Mental Health Day commemoration

Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, will on Tuesday lead the World Mental Health Day commemorative event in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal.

The day will help improve knowledge, raise awareness and drive actions that promote and protect everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.

Phaahla will be joined by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Health Nomagugu Simelane, World Health Organisation’s Country Director Dr Owen Kaluwa, representatives from human rights bodies and local leaders.

The 2023 campaign will be commemorated under the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” theme, which serves as a clarion call for countries to improve access to quality mental health services and ensure that the human rights and well-being of people with mental disorders are respected and upheld.

The Department of Health has called on communities and organisations to create an enabling environment for people to openly discuss mental health challenges and share experiences to help break down barriers.

According to the department, this will also encourage health-seeking behaviour for early diagnosis and effective management.

“Stigma and discrimination can make mental health problems worse and delay a person from seeking help they need to recover,” it said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 13:33

165 views

8 October 2023

Eskom suspends load shedding

Location: News

Eskom suspends load shedding

Due to improved generation performance, load shedding will remain suspended until 4pm on Monday, Eskom said.

Thereafter, Stage 2 load shedding will be implemented from 4pm until 5am on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the state-owned power utility said load shedding will then be suspended from 5am until 4pm on Tuesday.

“This pattern of suspending load shedding from 5am until 4pm and implementing Stage 2 load shedding from 4pm until 5 am, will be repeated daily until further notice. Eskom will communicate should any significant changes, “said Eskom in an update on Sunday. – SAnewsgov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 13:15

65 views

8 October 2023

President Ramaphosa to receive Census 2022 results

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to receive Census 2022 results

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to receive South Africa's Census 2022 national results from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA).

The Statistician-General, Risenga Maluleke, will officially hand over the report to the President and announce the results of the population and housing count to the country at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Tuesday

Census 2022, according to the Presidency, was the fourth population and housing count in post-apartheid South Africa, with the first conducted in 1996, with subsequent censuses being conducted in 2001 and 2011.

The population and housing census was conducted in February 2022 and will provide comprehensive data on population size, demographic trends, and other service delivery-related information.

Stats SA will be following the trend adopted by many countries and data will be released in phases.

For phase one, the Census 2022 launch will only cover reports and indicators at the national, provincial, district and local municipality levels.

“Census data is an important data source used for planning and evidence-based decision making by government and various sectors of society.

“The census population count provides data on the demographic, economic and social makeup of the country. Furthermore, findings from censuses are key in tracking service delivery programmes over time," said the Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 11:24

123 views

6 October 2023

RTMC celebrates two years of excellent driving licence renewal service

Location: News

RTMC celebrates two years of excellent driving licence renewal service

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is celebrating two years since it officially opened its doors to its driving licensing centres in Midrand and Eco Park.

“The RTMC takes pride in the strides it has made in an effort to provide a world class service to the citizens of South Africa living in Gauteng. A total of 127 952 have visited the centres and left with broad smiles on their faces,” the RTMC said on Thursday.

Both licensing centres currently use the Smart Enrolment System to capture applicant details.

“The use of this advanced technology eliminates the need to print ID photos for renewal purposes. This does not only enhance efficiency but also improves the overall experience for clients by reducing the time spent at RTMC centres.

“Eliminating the need for printed ID photos aligns with modern practices of reducing carbon emissions in line with the country’s sustainability goals,” the RTMC said.

The Corporation continued to urge all motorists who have applied for new driving licence cards to present themselves for collection as leaving cards uncollected for long periods could lead to those cards being destroyed.

Applicants are encouraged to take advantage of the extended hours and to transact at RTMC centres seven days a week from 7am – 9pm. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 09:23

560 views

6 October 2023

Minister Zulu receives review report on child support grant

Location: News

Minister Zulu receives review report on child support grant

The Child Poverty and the Child Support Grant (CSG) Review Report not only serves as a barometer, but it is an invitation to found, strengthen and activate multilateral partnerships that will undo child poverty in all communities.

This is according to Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu, who received the review report on Friday in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

“The Review Report is a challenge to all of us to inspire hope, thereby ensuring a brighter future for all children. To reinforce the CSG’s continued relevance, the department is currently working on a policy through which we will be integrating the receipt of children's grants with government’s other basic services in the very near future.

“This policy will ensure that these beneficiaries, namely children, will benefit from receiving the diverse bouquet of government’s interventions that will necessarily improve their human development and dignity,” Zulu said.

In 2021, the Department of Social Development commissioned the Children’s Institute at the University of Cape Town to conduct a comprehensive review of child poverty and the value of the Child Support Grant (CSG).

In its effort to ensure that the right to access social assistance is afforded to all those who are unable to take care of themselves, the South African government has, through the Department of Social Development, rolled out a massive social assistance programme, the most notable being the CSG.

The South African Social Assistance programme stands as a globally recognised model, acknowledged for its strategic role as the nation's primary poverty alleviation initiative.

The CSG has been especially successful at reaching large numbers of poor children with relative ease, earning recognition for its pro-poor targeting among existing social grants.

To date, the 13 million children are CSG recipients to the value of R510 a month per child. In the previous financial year (2022/23), the Department of Social Development, through its entity, SASSA, allocated a budget of R77 billion for the payment of this grant.

The CSG remains one of the country’s successful poverty alleviation programmes, which plays a significant role in positive school outcomes, and research has shown that it has ensured that eligible children receiving the CSG remain in school.

While it is acknowledged that the CSG has had a significant impact in alleviating poverty, it is provided at a value too small to protect the poorest children from hunger, malnutrition, and stunting, the review noted.

In an effort to augment the current social assistance programme such that it can address the existing gaps, the Department of Social Development said it has, in the past two decades, engaged in policy reforms in the form of scaling up social assistance to cover all the vulnerable groups.

The review assessed the state of child poverty in the country, the impact of the CSG on child poverty, as well as the value of the CSG in the context of child poverty and the cost of raising a child.

The findings of the review are already indicating that poverty rates are higher for women than for men, and higher for children than adults, making it imperative therefore, going forward, to analyse child poverty rates separately, as the extent of child poverty is otherwise obscured by the overall national poverty rates.

The review also found that child poverty in South Africa remains racially and geographically distorted, wherein African children and those living in rural areas in the former homelands, are most likely to be poor.

Child food poverty was also reduced by 20 percentage points from 55% to 33% between 2003 and 2013, as the CSG coverage expanded rapidly with the age threshold being extended from 7 to 18 years.

Several studies demonstrate that the CSG has contributed to improved outcomes for child wellbeing. Furthermore between 2013 and 2019, child poverty rates remained stable and the percentage of children below the upper bound poverty line started to show improvement in 2017.

The review also records that the introduction of the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress, the caregiver allowance and top-ups to the permanent grants helped to offset increases in child poverty for a few months in 2020. It has been found that these temporary measures to boost grant income “saved” an estimated 1.2 million children from food poverty for a few months.

The review also notes that child poverty and hunger rates increased after the caregiver allowance and top-ups ended in October 2020.

It further reveals that in 2021, child poverty had risen significantly, with 37% of children (over 7 million) living in food poverty and 62% below the upper bound poverty line.

It has also been found that delays in birth registration and CSG applications during lockdown resulted in the number of babies receiving the CSG falling by about 100 000 in 2021 with no recovery to 2019 levels by March 2022.

As a result of many years of annual CSG increases below food inflation, the purchasing power of the CSG has been eroded and it no longer covers the cost of food and clothing for a child as originally intended.

The review further highlights that should the status quo continue, the gap between the value of the CSG and the food poverty line will widen further every year, with the rate and number of children living in food poverty continuing to rise.

The study, inter alia, recommends that the food poverty line - at R663/child/month - should be regarded as the absolute minimum, while the upper bound poverty line - at R1 417/child/month - should not be seen as generous. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 13:47

298 views

6 October 2023

Futurelife invests R75m in Dube Trade Port SEZ facility

Location: News

Futurelife invests R75m in Dube Trade Port SEZ facility

KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, says the investment in a new Futurelife manufacturing facility at the Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has created hope for a better future for the province.

Duma made the remarks during the launch of a R75 million investment by South African health foods manufacturer, Futurelife, which took occupation in a new manufacturing facility in Dube TradePort, located near the King Shaka International Airport.

The modern factory is set to streamline Futurelife's production processes, enhancing the organisation's efficiency through the purchase of advanced machinery and equipment that will enable the factory to operate at international standards.

Cutting the ribbon to officially mark the factory opening for business, Duma emphasised the important role that the factory will play in sustainable economic development in KwaZulu-Natal.

Duma said locating the business within the Dube Trade Port SEZ will ensure efficiencies in the operations while reducing the logistics costs.

Ahead of the COVID-19 lockdown, about 315 000 people were employed in manufacturing, representing just of 12% of total formal and informal employment.

He said the plant is an integral part of the provincial industrial strategy which aims to stimulate the manufacturing industry in order to increase employment.

“This launch is a result of your ability to work together to master new state-of-the-art technologies and to do this all on schedule. If we are to realise the province’s full potential and discharge our shared commitment to create a better life for all South Africans, then increased investment in the province is of critical importance.

“The fact that Futurelife already sources 87% of its raw materials locally, gives local producers an advantage of future upstream integration as Futurelife continues to pursue growth into regional and international markets," Duma said

Futurelife, which previously had its operations in Pinetown for 14 years, was fully acquired by food and beverage company, PepsiCo South Africa in 2023.

Former Futurelife Managing Director and now PepsiCo South Africa’s Commercial Vice President Mark Bunn said the exceptional facility is a testament to the company’s commitment to transforming and improving South Africans' health and well-being.

“The new factory embodies our dedication to contributing positively to the local community and ultimately the broader economy. The company has its origins in KwaZulu-Natal and has experienced significant growth and success within this region and, over time, in South Africa at large.

“We are, therefore, unwavering in our commitment to giving back to the very community and economy that has played a pivotal role in our journey. Our dedication extends beyond business as usual; it's a pledge to support and enrich the local community and economy through our endeavours, ensuring a lasting positive impact for years to come,” Bunn said.

Bunn said the company currently has a staff complement of 186 and anticipates creating an additional 24 direct jobs in the next five years of its operations within the new facility.

He added that the company anticipates growing 30% of its business into export markets in Asia, Middle East, Europe, North America and the rest of the African continent.

Dube Trade Port SEZ CEO, Hamish Erskine said the investment is significant for FutureLife, and serves as a notable endorsement for the SEZ, as an investment destination in South Africa.

“As the Special Economic Zone operator, we welcome this investment and look forward to working with and supporting FutureLife in their development journey, as we also continue to build a highly secure and functional industrial precinct,” Erskine said.

Dube Trade Port Special Economic Zone is home to 46 operational business enterprises, which have collectively created 10 803 jobs, as at March 2023. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 14:20

390 views

6 October 2023

Pact to fund STEM postgrad students

Location: News

Pact to fund STEM postgrad students

The National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Energy Mobility Education Trust have concluded a three-year partnership agreement to fund postgraduate students in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and commerce fields.

The agreement is said to focus on traditionally marginalised groups and contribute to the transformation of the education landscape, with a specific focus on South Africans who are Black, female or people with a disability.

According to the Energy Mobility Education Trust CEO, Vuyo Mwase, the move will promote academic, scientific, and technological cooperation by supporting full-time studies for South African postgraduate students at the Honours level for the first year and Master’s and Doctoral levels from 2024.

“The Energy Mobility Education Trust has championed the attainment of formal qualifications in STEM and commerce for over years,” said Mwase.

The CEO also noted the lack of funding for postgraduate studies.

“As such, this complementary and strategic partnership with the NRF strengthens our position and commitment to narrowing this gap. Additionally, our partnership will augment the much-needed innovation in developing and managing the current and emerging renewable energy systems,” Mwase explained.

The programme will initially provide funding opportunities for 38 Honours students for the 2023 academic year, with an initial investment of R6.8 million, with Master’s and Doctoral programmes to start in 2024.

Funding for postgraduate students will be made available in the STEM disciplines, with a specific focus on mathematical science, data science, computer science, green economy, renewable energy and climate change studies.

The first phase of the programme will support students from the Universities of Fort Hare, Limpopo, Pretoria, Witwatersrand, Western Cape and Johannesburg.

The NRF’s Dr Mbulelo Ncango is of the view that the scholarship programme comes at a critical time as South Africa strives to respond to energy and climate change challenges amongst many other national concerns.

“This partnership is aligned with national policy goals on higher education, science, and technology such as the strengthening of human resource development and the creation of an enabling environment for innovation in South Africa,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 15:00

178 views

6 October 2023

Futurelife invests R75m to Dube TradePort SEZ facility

Location: News

Futurelife invests R75m to Dube TradePort SEZ facility

He said the plant is an integral part of the provincial industrial strategy which aims to stimulate the manufacturing industry in order to increase employment.

GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 14:20

96 views

6 October 2023

President Ramaphosa launches Border Management Authority

Location: News

President Ramaphosa launches Border Management Authority

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the newly launched Border Management Authority (BMA) will provide a sustainable solution to the structural challenges of border security, control and coordination.

The President emphasised that a more secure border is important for curbing illegal migration, human smuggling and trafficking, and that the BMA will help in combating cross-border crime.

President Ramaphosa was delivering remarks at the launch of the Border Management Authority (BMA) at Musina Show Grounds in Limpopo on Thursday.

He said that this will be a new model of integration of functions, roles and responsibilities in the broader law enforcement environment.

“The Border Management Authority is expected to tackle the challenges of congestion, procedural delays, long transit times, lack of predictability and high logistics costs. I commend the Border Management Authority for the speed with which it has already commenced its work.

“When our country’s ports of entry and borders are well-protected and well-managed, we are able to prevent the illegal importation and exit of goods. We see the Border Management Authority as a vital link in our efforts to harness the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he said.

The President said the Border Management Authority was established in response to a number of serious challenges. One of these challenges is the increase in the number of undocumented foreign nationals entering the country, which has exacerbated many of the country’s social and economic problems.

“The movement of persons and goods at ports of entry has often not been as efficient as it should be, resulting in unnecessary delays and increased costs for individuals and companies. This in turn is harming our economy.

"Deficiencies in border management have also enabled corruption and organised and cross-border crime to thrive. We have faced a problem of fragmentation of powers, responsibility and accountability,” the President said.

The Border Management Authority is now the third armed service in South Africa after the South African National Defence Force and the South African Police Service.

It is mandated to perform border management functions within ports of entry as well as the law enforcement area. The Border Management Authority is being established through an incremental approach.

Steps have already been taken to integrate under the Border Management Authority various relevant functions of the departments of Home Affairs, Agriculture, Health, and Fisheries, Forestry and the Environment.

To enable its work, the President said the Border Management Authority has signed implementation protocols with the South African Revenue Service, Police Service and Defence Force.

“While the border guard will be conducting border law enforcement functions, including access control, the South African National Defence Force remains responsible for border protection and safeguarding.

“The border guard will interface with the nearest police station with regards to the occurrence of a crime at a port of entry,” the President said.

BMA important tool to develop the region

The President took a tour to the Beit Bridge Border Post with his counterpart from Zimbabwe, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and they agreed that the establishment of the Border Management Authority will be an important tool for the development of the region.

“It will form part of integrating border management activities in the SADC region as we implement the African Continental Free Trade Area. We will be able to work towards eradicating various forms of red tape that are hindering trade, investment and the movement of persons,” he said.

The President said that Border Management Authority will be redeveloping six ports of entries as one-stop-border-posts.

This approach will improve efficiency at land border crossings by combining the stops required for processing exit and entry formalities.

In July, the country saw the deployment of the first officers of the border guard of the Border Management Authority at vulnerable segments of the border line, including the informal community crossing points. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 10:20

535 views

6 October 2023

Two more children die after consuming sweets, chips from vendor in Westonaria

Location: News

Two more children die after consuming sweets, chips from vendor in Westonaria

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) announced on Thursday that two toddlers have lost their lives following a food poisoning incident in the West Rand.

This is after four boys aged two, three, four and six allegedly consumed sweets and chips from a vendor at West Deep in Westonaria.

“Sadly, this resulted in two of the boys, aged two and three, being declared dead on arrival at Bekkersdal West Community Health Centre,” the department said.

The other two boys have been transferred to Leratong Hospital for observation and further management and are in stable condition.

The department has offered trauma counselling services to the affected families.

This recent tragedy brings the number of children who have died from food poisoning-related incidents to four.

Neo Khang and Katlego Mbatha, both six years old, lost their lives on Sunday after eating biscuits and juice from a local shop in Naledi, Soweto.

“The GDoH would like to pass its heartfelt condolences to the families that have lost their loved ones and also wish speedy recovery to those currently admitted at hospitals.”

Meanwhile, outbreak response teams in both Johannesburg and West Rand districts continue to be on the ground in Naledi and West Deep and surrounding areas engaging locals and conducting health education.

The awareness campaign focuses on food handling, preparation, storage and food safety, the importance of checking food expiry labels and hand washing before handling food.

Part of the advocacy work, the department said, includes reaching out to vendors and spaza shops in the area to check compliance in terms of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act and food labelling regulations.

“The outbreak response team has visited the affected families to provide support and counselling and to conduct further investigations in the households.”

The department urges the public to visit their nearest health facilities when they present with symptoms such as vomiting, sudden chest pains, body aches, fever or foam in the mouth. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 10:30

416 views

6 October 2023

KZN speeds up pothole repairs

Location: News

KZN speeds up pothole repairs

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has unveiled 55 new trucks, which will be used to improve the turnaround time in addressing pothole patching in the province.

The procurement of the trucks, which were unveiled at the launch of the 2023 October Transport Month campaign, is part of the commitment made by the Premier in her State of the Province Address, where she committed government to improving the provincial road network conditions.

The trucks -- fitted with the latest pothole patching technology -- will be distributed to all Department of Transport District Offices, in a “fast and effective operation”.

The trucks will comprise a team of nine people, who will be responsible for routine and safety maintenance, including pothole patching, blacktop patching, drain cleaning and verge maintenance, among other duties.

Unveiling the trucks, Dube-Ncube emphasised that the transport sector is the heartbeat of the province’s economy, and crucial in the stimulation of socio-economic development of the nation.

She said during October Transport Month, the province will advance road safety initiatives and highlight several economic empowerment initiatives.

“Under the Department of Transport, over the coming months, the province will ensure that employment intensive road maintenance programmes are increased to provide employment opportunities for more women and the vulnerable in our province. The Zibambele Maintenance Programme will create 41 000 job opportunities,” Dube-Ncube said.

This year’s October Transport Month Campaign is being rolled out under the theme: ‘Siyakha – We are building better infrastructure to grow South Africa together!’.

During this month, the Department of Transport and its entities will showcase transport infrastructure services in aviation, maritime, public transport and roads.

This month will also be used to further advance the country’s road safety initiatives, while creating awareness of the economic benefits of the sector. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 10:31

201 views

6 October 2023

SADC – GMI signs agreement to promote sustainable water resources management

Location: News

SADC – GMI signs agreement to promote sustainable water resources management

The Incomati and Maputo Watercourse Commission (INMACOM) and Southern African Development Community – Groundwater Management Institute (SADC – GMI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster the promotion of equitable and reasonable utilisation of water resources of the Incomati and Maputo Basin.

The agreement also seeks to ensure efficient management and sustainable development of the resources.

The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of the 10th SADC River Basin Organisations (RBO) and Shared Watercourse Institutions (SWI) workshop, held at Joachim Chissano Conference Centre in Maputo on 2 - 4 October 2023.

The workshop aimed to facilitate the exchange of ideas that will enhance effective transboundary water resources planning, development, and management in the region, while ensuring environmental sustainability and resilience in order to improve regional water security, and ultimately reduce poverty through regional integration, economic productivity and industrialisation.

Through the signed MoU, the two parties have agreed on the following areas of cooperation, amongst others:
•   Engage in academic research on the Incomati and Maputo Basins on items of mutual interest, particularly on groundwater related issues.
•   Share any information that improves the knowledge base on transboundary aquifers in the Incomati and Maputo Basins.
•   Design and undertake joint excursions and projects within the two basins.
•   Explore funding opportunities from various cooperating partners and funders to implement joint activities within the basin.

INMACOM is an entity established by the Kingdom of Eswatini, Republic of Mozambique, and Republic of South Africa through the Incomati and Maputo Watercourse Commission Establishment Agreement entered into in November 2021.

This is an instrument used to guide the Riparian States in contributing to regional cooperation with regard to the utilisation and development of common water resources.

The main responsibility of the Commission is to, amongst others, encourage cooperation between the parties to ensure the development, protection and sustainable utilisation of the water resources shared by the Member States.

The Department of Water and Sanitation has welcomed the new development, saying the combined effort by the Member States, through South Africa’s Water and Sanitation, Department of Water Resources in Eswatini and Mozambique’s Department of Water and Natural Resources, could also contribute positively towards “peace, stability and prosperity of the Southern African region”.

“SADC-GMI, is established as the regional Centre of Excellence in promoting equitable and sustainable groundwater management and providing solutions to groundwater challenges across the SADC region for improved livelihoods and socio-economic development. This also forms part of SADC agenda of regional integration and poverty eradication.

“Furthermore, SADC-GMI mandate is to create an enabling policy, legal and regulatory environment, capacity development, advancing research, supporting groundwater infrastructure development, and create an enabling dialogue and accessibility of groundwater information in the SADC region,” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 09:48

24 views

5 October 2023

Increased police visibility on Mabopane freeway to deal with armed robberies

Location: News

Increased police visibility on Mabopane freeway to deal with armed robberies

Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela has mobilised extra resources to crackdown on robberies on the Mabopane highway following a blockade of the road on Tuesday by community members.

Residents had raised concerns about the high incidence of crime on that stretch of the road.

On Wednesday, a team from the Organised Crime Unit conducted an operation in the area with the aim of targeting the alleged robbers.

One of the members stopped next to the road under the pretense of relieving himself while the others were doing surveillance. As he walked towards the trees, two men emerged from the tunnel that runs under the R80 with firearms pointing at the member. The members on surveillance swiftly reacted and pounced on the suspects.

The suspects had a backpack with two jackets and two different hats suspected to be used as a change clothes after robberies. The firearms were also established to be toy guns.

A preliminary investigation led the members to an address where they found a woman who confirmed that she bought the cellphone from one of the suspects and she pointed the police to another woman who also allegedly bought a cellphone from the same suspect.

The two women were arrested for possession of suspected stolen property

Lt Gen Mawela applauded the members for their swift response and assured the public that the police will continue to deal decisively with crime in the province.

The suspects are expected to appear before court soon and police investigations continue.

The public has been encouraged to be vigilant when using that road and not to stop next to the freeway but rather drive to the nearest filling station. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 09:51

495 views

5 October 2023

Awareness drive intensified after Soweto poisoning incident

Location: News

Awareness drive intensified after Soweto poisoning incident

The Gauteng Health Department's Outbreak Response team has committed to intensify its awareness drive following a food poisoning incident in Soweto.

This comes after Neo Khang and Katlego Mbatha, both six years old, lost their lives after they ate biscuits and juice bought from a local shop on Sunday.

Meanwhile, a three-year-old boy is recovering well from home, while two are currently admitted at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.

“A four-year-old male who is recovering well and is due for discharge and a six-year-old girl who remains critical but stable in ICU.”

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the response team visited the affected families to provide support and counselling and to conduct further investigations.

They also spent time at Naledi and surrounding areas engaging locals and conducting health education about food handling, preparation, storage and food safety.

They also shared the importance of checking food expiry labels, and hand washing before handling food and sensitising them on what to do when presenting with food poisoning symptoms.

These include cramping, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea.

“The health education also covered spaza shops in the area and includes checking compliance in terms of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act and food labelling regulations.”

Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has since passed her condolences to the families that have lost their children and wished a speedy recovery to those who are still receiving medical care.

“The tragic incident is another painful reminder that we must do more to ensure greater public awareness and increase the level of alertness when it comes to the foodstuffs communities are exposed to,” she said.

The department is urging the public to visit their nearest health facilities when they present with symptoms such as vomiting, sudden chest pains, body aches, fever or foam in the mouth.

The outbreak response team comprised of health inspectors from the municipality and the province, Ward-Based Outreach Teams, Communicable Disease Control specialists, Surveillance Officers, Infection Control and Health Promoters will continue to conduct awareness campaigns in Naledi and surrounding areas on Thursday and Friday.

“The police have since taken samples for further processing. The source of the food poisoning is not confirmed subject to the police investigation.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 12:38

436 views

5 October 2023

Work underway to recover Germiston to Joburg rail line

Location: News

Work underway to recover Germiston to Joburg rail line

The Gauteng Infrastructure team is working on recovering the Germiston to Johannesburg rail line following the collapse of a footbridge, said the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).

Two pedestrians were reported to be injured when the steel footbridge collapsed on Wednesday. They were taken to a nearby hospital.

“This work follows the removal of parts of the bridge and debris from the perway/main tracks. The remaining parts of the bridge and debris will be removed today,” the agency said on Thursday.

The team started the recovery work on Wednesday evening, working into the early hours of Thursday morning.

PRASA said it is pleased with the progress made in recovering the infrastructure so it can resume services, which is expected within the next 24-48 hours.

An investigation into what led to the collapse is underway. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 13:00

370 views

5 October 2023

Educators honoured at National Teaching Awards

Location: News

Educators honoured at National Teaching Awards

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed government’s commitment to reinforcing teacher support and prioritising the professional growth of those who are the key drivers of basic education.

On behalf of the nation's people, the Deputy President saluted all teachers for their commendable and unparalleled contributions.

“Acknowledging that teaching is a labour of love and passion, as Government we are committed to reinforcing teacher support, and prioritising the professional growth of the women and men who are key drivers of basic education.

“Such a posture is critical in that it boosts their personal prowess and propels our schools towards unparalleled achievements. The wellness of all public servants in the Department of Basic Education must as such remain a priority, " he said.

The Deputy President was delivering remarks at the National Teachers’ Awards, held at the Hatfield Christian Church in Thaba Tshwane, Pretoria on Thursday.

This year marks 23 years since the first National Teachers’ Awards took place as spearheaded by the former Minister of Education, the late Professor Kader Asmal.

Mashatile said the awards will always serve as a reminder of the contributions of Professor Asmal to social transformation in South Africa, to the extent that the Lifetime Achievement Award is named after him.

The Deputy President used his address to recognise the daily achievements of teachers who quietly inspire students to overcome obstacles in life by believing in them, igniting a passion for learning in young, bright minds, and quietly planting the seeds of optimism for a better future in the classroom.

He said these are the triumphs that may not always make headlines, but carry children and youth towards the kind of prosperous society that we all envisage.

“In celebrating our teachers today, let us therefore renew our commitment to supporting them in every possible way, for in their success lies the success of our nation,” he said.

The Deputy President highlighted that unemployment, poverty and inequality are the three main challenges that plaque society today, adding that youth, women and other marginalised groups bear the brunt of these.

It is therefore, he said, the government’s responsibility to ensure that its policies are aligned across various departmental priorities.

“Our commitment to building a brighter future for our children is unwavering. We have taken note of the challenges, particularly concerning reports that our young learners struggle to read for meaning. A fundamental aspect of improving our education system hinges upon building robust foundations of literacy and numeracy from the earliest ages,” he said.

Mashatile highlighted that the system shift of Early Childhood Development (ECD) from the Department of Social Development to Basic Education is a testament to governmnet’s dedication to this cause.

He said this offers a ripe opportunity to instil these foundational competencies right from the early stages of education.

Turning to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Mashatile said it presents both challenges and opportunities for us.

With the introduction of avant-garde subjects like Coding, Robotics, Data Analytics, and Science Technology, he said government aims to keep South Africa at the forefront of global innovation.

“Our fervent belief is that by equipping our learners with these competencies, we're not only making them globally competitive but are also paving the way for a technologically advanced and prosperous nation.

“We recognise that our teachers must be equally adept and updated to achieve this. We've begun substantial investments in training programmes to ensure our educators are well-versed with emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and others.

“By doing this, we aim to cultivate a symbiotic growth pattern where our educators and learners evolve together, harnessing the boundless potential of the digital age,” he said.

Turning to climate change and the recent climatic disasters, the Deputy President said these events and others highlight the urgent need for environmental education and training in order to equip communities with the requisite skills and capacity to both respond to, and prepare for the inevitability of climate disasters.

He emphasised that education has an important role in raising awareness and changing behaviour. Globally, educators are tasked with the monumental role of raising awareness about climate change and nurturing a proactive generation in finding solutions.

“As we charter our course into this new era, the importance of a well-rounded, technologically adept, and socially responsible education cannot be emphasised enough.

“And at the heart of this mission are all the teachers of our country - those of you honoured today, and those who also dedicate themselves in earnest to the development of our children and youth through education. Let us continue on this journey, hand in hand, as we mould future generations that are equipped, empowered, and enlightened,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 13:57

389 views

5 October 2023

Mop up operations continue across Western Cape

Location: News

Mop up operations continue across Western Cape

The Western Cape Provincial Government says it has been working around the clock to re-open roads and assist communities that have been badly affected by the recent heavy rains and flooding.

Giving an update on mop up operations, Head of the Department of Infrastructure, Jacqueline Gooch, said while the province has been working around the clock to re-open the roads along with their partners, some mop up operations are taking some time to complete due to the extent of the damage.

“While main routes and alternatives to main routes are prioritised, at times, despite being a high priority, we have to wait for the flood water to subside. This is in the case where a road remains under water or where landslips have occurred. For example, both Clarence Drive and Franschhoek Pass have significant landslips, and repair work cannot commence until the slips have stabilised,” Gooch said.

Gooch explained that when prioritising the road repairs, the provincial government considers the main routes and alternatives to main routes; access to communities that have been cut off completely for humanitarian relief, food and emergency services; and roads which are of economic importance, such as those needed for movement of goods/exports, among other things.

On the estimated total cost of storm damage, Gooch said the costs for repairs cannot be confirmed at this stage, until all inspections and assessments of damage have been carried out.

“It is likely to be a considerable amount, when taking into account for example among other costs the number of bridges and roads that have been completely washed away,” she said.

Gooch urged residents to pay attention to road closure signs, as they are in place for their safety.

With saturated ground, she said, water causes expansion in certain cases and when an area dries, it contracts again.

“While much has been done in terms of mop-up operations and responding to communities’ needs, we are still in the process of our disaster response and will be for some time. As we further inspect the road network, we are discovering additional damage to infrastructure,” Gooch said.

Meanwhile, the provincial government has appealed to citizens who assist displaced families with donations in the form of blankets, water, dry and non-perishable food, baby food and toiletries.

Citizens who are able to donate towards relief efforts are requested to drop off any donations at the following offices of the SA Red Cross Society:

•   Wynberg: 21 Broad Road, Wynberg
•   Greyton: 11 Pointers Way, Heuwelkroon, Greyton
•   Hermanus: 2A Aberdeen Street, Hermanus
•   Knysna: 25 Trotter Street, Knysna

The province has expressed its appreciation to all officials, including teams on the ground and partners, for hard work thus far and the work currently underway. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 15:10

245 views

5 October 2023

Chemicals, cosmetics sectors to benefit from AfCFTA

Location: News

Chemicals, cosmetics sectors to benefit from AfCFTA

The chemicals, cosmetics, plastics and pharmaceutical sectors are set to get acquainted with the benefits offered under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

This will occur during the virtual workshop on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) that will be hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) on Wednesday, 11 October 2023.

The dtic has already embarked on provincial awareness workshops, which provided a platform for information sharing with the private sector on the benefits offered under the agreement.

The workshops were also used to identify South African companies in various provinces, in the targeted sector masterplans and other priority sectors that have the capacity to export to the rest of the continent.

More workshops focusing on different sectors are being organised.

The workshop seeks to engage the chemicals, cosmetics, plastics, and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as industry agencies, associations and export councils, including their members on the benefits of exporting under the AfCFTA.

According to the Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina, the interactive workshop is critical as it will afford the department an opportunity to provide a status update on the progress made in the development of the National Implementation Plan of the AfCFTA.

This also includes the establishment of the National Implementation Committee.

“The department will update the sectors on the role expected of them in the implementation of the AfCFTA and essentially obtain challenges that the sectors may be facing in accessing the market in the continent. Obtaining this intelligence will assist the department to unlock the bottlenecks that the sectors may be facing,” Gina said.

Additionally, the workshop seeks to communicate and engage with the private sector, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as women and youth-owned export ready businesses, on the status of the implementation of the AfCFTA, including opportunities for South African companies to participate in preferential trade beyond the Southern African region.

“I am making a call to all these sectors to take advantage of the opportunities that the agreement is expected to unlock for companies.

“This agreement intends to create a large single continental market with a population of about 1.3 billion people and a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately USD3.4 trillion and we cannot lose out on it,” she said.

Gina describes the chemicals, cosmetics, plastics and pharmaceutical sectors as important to the South African economy as they play a critical role and are interwoven with the manufacturing sector which creates much needed employment.

South Africa is Africa’s largest market for cosmetics and personal care products.

In 2018, the sector recorded close to US$3.2bn in revenue. Imports of cosmetics have almost doubled in the last 10 years, presenting opportunities for localising production.

Against this backdrop, Gina says it is critical to support the sector and all others to produce locally and export to other markets particularly to the continent. This she says will reduce the import dependency and create more jobs. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/05/2023 - 15:18

103 views