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SA, Tunisia bolster relations

Location: News

SA, Tunisia bolster relations

South Africa and Tunisia should increase their political consultations to ensure a robust and dynamic utilisation of opportunities that exist between the nations, says International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor.

Pandor on Friday hosted Tunisian Foreign Minister, Nabil Ammar. 

“I'm really pleased, Minister and brother, to welcome you to Pretoria today on the occasion of our political consultations, which gives us a chance to discuss our bilateral relations - regional, continental and international issues - of mutual interest,” said Pandor.

Today’s political consultations are expected to provide an opportunity for the two Ministers to reflect on the state of bilateral relations between South Africa and Tunisia and discuss further strengthening bilateral cooperation in several areas. 

These include economic cooperation, security, health, science and technology.

“The meeting we're going to have today is also going to lay the ground for the future meeting of our Joint Bilateral Commission for Cooperation (JBCC), which we established in 1996.

“However, the last meeting of JBCC was held in 2008. A further meeting is long overdue to revitalise its mission to ensure that we have focused programme areas of cooperation and projects that we execute together,” Pandor said.

The Minister said she hopes that officials in both countries are going to work hard to ensure they meet these ambitions and come up with concrete programmes of cooperation to work together.

“I do believe we have opportunities to expand and explore, and that these will benefit both our countries, as well as the people of our country. I've made reference to stronger cooperation between our business sector as well as stronger cooperation in skills, training and development.”

South Africa, according to Pandor, has a great ambition to enhance innovation and research capacity and has developed programmes in nanoscience and space science. 

“I know on satellites, previously, our researchers had been collaborating and it would be wonderful to revive that collaboration.” 

She also told Ammar that she was pleased his country has taken an interest in establishing the business forum, who was accompanied by the President of the Tunisian Union of Industry, Commerce and Handicrafts, who also has business interests locally.

“So dear Minister, please know that we are absolutely committed to the relationship between South Africa and Tunisia. 

“I assure you that I would like to walk together with Tunisia as we advance the goals of Agenda 2063 as well as implement the African Continental Free Trade Area, and together, support our continent to achieve its Developmental Goals.”

Pandor also took the time to express her gratitude to Ammar for attending South Africa’s 15th BRICS Summit last month and leading his country's delegation.

“We were thrilled that your country was in attendance,” she said. 

She also applauded her counterpart after the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) announced it was adding the Tunisian resort island of Djerba to its list of World Heritage Sites because of its ancient ruins, whitewashed villages, mosques, churches and synagogues.

“Minister, our bilateral relationship continues to be one that is strong and solidified through bilateral mechanisms which provide for political, economic, scientific and socio-cultural engagement,” she added. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

Gabisile
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 13:44

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Former SAA chairperson appears in court on fraud, corruption charges

Location: News

Former SAA chairperson appears in court on fraud, corruption charges

Former South African Airways (SAA) board chairperson, Dudu Myeni as well as former Sondolo IT director, Trevor Mathenjwa have been granted bail of R10 000 each at the Richards Bay Magistrates’ Court.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Investigating Directorate spokesperson, Sindisiwe Seboka, said the two were arrested earlier today on charges of fraud and corruption related to controversial business BOSASA.

Seboka said Myeni allegedly failed to disclose her interests during her tenure as SAA board chairperson.

“Myeni thus stands accused of corruption for receiving gratification from BOSASA subsidiary Sondolo IT, offered by Trevor Mathenjwa, the company's former director. Myeni is accused of having received security upgrades for her Richards Bay premises during May 2014 to March 2015, to the value of R200k.

“She is further accused of benefiting from hotel accommodation and travel expenses for her and persons close to her, from BOSASA, facilitated by Blake Travels, between May 2014 and March 2015 for over R107k,” Seboka said.

The case is expected back in court in November. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 14:26

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Mashatile calls for accelerated service delivery in communities across SA

Location: News

Mashatile calls for accelerated service delivery in communities across SA

Accelerated service delivery is not a luxury but a necessity, says Deputy President Paul Mashatile. 

“It is a human right, as enshrined in our Constitution. It is the key to unlocking the full potential of our communities and ensuring a brighter future for generations to come,” he said on Friday. 

The Deputy President was speaking in the North West, as part of the Thuntsha Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery Programme, in Taung. 

By adopting modern technologies and employing well-trained personnel, he said government could drastically improve response times and minimise the damage caused by emergencies. 

“It is important to recognise that accelerated service delivery is not just about efficiency and convenience, it is about creating a society where every individual has equal access to basic services and an equal say in how their community is governed and serviced.” 

By empowering communities with faster and more efficient services, he said the state could bridge socioeconomic gaps, reduce inequalities, and ensure a better quality of life. 

“Achieving accelerated service delivery requires collective effort. Governments, private sector organisations, and civil society must work together to identify and address the key challenges in service delivery.”

He believes that collaboration, innovation and investment in technology and infrastructure are essential to create a robust ecosystem that supports accelerated service delivery.

He took the time to reflect on the Bill of Rights, contained in Chapter 2 of the Constitution, which guarantees all South Africans basic human rights and recognises basic services as a human right. 

The Constitution, he said, serves to codify the fundamental entitlements of individuals and communities, while validating the democratic principles of inherent worth, parity, and human dignity. 

“Section 10 focuses on human dignity. It specifically states that ‘everyone has inherent dignity and the right to have their dignity respected and protected’.

“If this is the case, a Councillor, MEC or Minister who fails to provide services to the people neither respects nor protects the dignity of the people. As such, when that happens, the Constitution is contravened. And this should never be allowed.”

The country’s second-in-command commended provincial leadership for their commitment to focus on job creation and accelerated service delivery – the Thuntsa Lerole intervention. 

The programme, he told the community, is aligned with the District Development Model (DDM), designed to address service delivery. 

“The DDM enables all spheres of government to better plan, budget and implement projects and programmes,” he explained. 

The Deputy President believes that communities will benefit from more integrated service delivery as a result of this commitment and collaboration directed by the DDM. 

“As a party that has been in power for almost three decades in South Africa, we have made commitments to improve the lives of the people of South Africa and deliver essential services such as housing, education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure to all South Africans…

“It is important to note that we have made significant strides in certain areas of service delivery.” 

Access to clean drinking water, he pointed out, has improved for many communities, while social grants have provided a safety net for the most vulnerable.

“However, the overall delivery and implementation of these promises have sometimes fallen short of expectations, with lingering challenges that need urgent attention.” 

The Deputy President took time to apologise for the recent technical glitch that led to grant beneficiaries not receiving their critical grant support on time. 

Meanwhile, he also touched on public safety, which he is of the view that should be a priority.

“Timely response to emergencies, effective disaster management, and robust law enforcement are all vital components of a safe and secure community,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 14:40

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BRICS offers SA prospects to deepen relations

Location: News

BRICS offers SA prospects to deepen relations

The expansion of the BRICS not only gives weight to the bloc but also grants South Africa the opportunity to deepen ties with the countries that are expected to join the formation next year.

South Africa hosted the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg last month where President Cyril Ramaphosa as chair of the bloc announced that Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates will join the BRICS.

 “It gives the bloc more weight politically [and] economically in an international space. Domestically, we can gain from ensuring that there’s deepened trade ties with these countries which would expand economic opportunities within South Africa itself and the other emerging markets you find in the BRICS bloc.

“It increases your momentum within the global stage itself,” assistant lecturer at the Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Johannesburg, Ndzalama Mathebula told SAnews.

The six developing countries are set to become full members of the BRICS [Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa] bloc from January 2024.

Senior research associate at the think tank, Institute for Global Dialogue, Sanusha Naidu said there could be other developments leading up to the new year.                                                                   

“…when we come to January 2024, what will be some of the issues? Will countries automatically accept the invitation to become members of the expanded BRICS  or what will be some of the strategic orientation that will influence and the factors that will shape this?,” remarks Naidu.

Naidu adds that this poses “some serious questions, introspection and reflection around South Africa’s BRICS strategy going forward.”

She adds that South Africa now needs to be much more coherent about its strategy.

In his address to Members of Parliament earlier this month, President Ramaphosa said South Africa’s trade with the bloc has increased by an average of 10% every year over the period 2017 to 2021. According to the President, the country’s total trade with other BRICS nations stood at R830 billion in 2022 from R487 billion in 2017.

During the Questions for Oral Reply session held at the National Assembly, the President explained that BRICS is an important source of foreign direct investment in key areas such as mining, automotive, transportation, clean energy, financial services and information technology (IT).

New chapter

In his address to the nation post the summit, the President described the summit—which was attended by the five BRICS member countries and representatives of 61 other countries-- as a success that “heralded a new chapter” for the group.

Naidu said the expansion of the BRICS is very much part of the interest in Washington right now.

 “I don’t think it’s because [and] I say this with the most respect for the South African government and for South Africa. I don’t think it is because of South Africa that there’s interest in the BRICS. The interest in the BRICS right now is because the BRICS is expanding but it is not because of South Africa.”

The country on the southernmost tip of the African continent, was invited to join the bloc in 2010 and in 2011, South Africa attended its first summit of the group of leading emerging markets and developing countries.

Having been part of the bloc for over a decade, it was interesting to see other countries invited to join the bloc on African soil.

She notes that the first expansion of the BRICS that happened was with South Africa being invited to join the formation but that “didn’t get the attention” because the world at that time was not as “volatile, unpredictable and inflamed as it is now.”

The summit called for a comprehensive reform of the United Nations (UN) including the Security Council. Speaking at the summit, Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres said the Security Council and the Bretton Woods system are two areas which require a ”particularly important reform effort.”

He said if reform fails, “we risk fragmentation, and fragmentation can be one day a factor of confrontation.”

Naidu agrees with the Secretary-General’s comments.

“If reform is not happening; it is fragmenting and you can see that happening in a very real way. I think the expansion of the BRICS actually brings about a regionalisation of the geopolitics of the international system and you see that with the countries that are being invited to expand [the group].

Naidu said that this time around, the reform of the UN Security Council was not just a broad statement.

“My view was that for the first time in a long time, I think since the BRICS inception [that] the issue of the UN Security Council reform wasn’t just a broad statement. It kind of referred to the developing world and especially India, Brazil and South Africa.

“I feel that was a bit of a broad win in a way that [gets] Russia and China to kind of not to explicitly endorse, but to implicitly support the membership of India, Brazil and South Africa into the Security Council … where I didn’t previously see them doing that.”

Mathebula said that 15-years ago when the BRICS was formed, it was not thought that the group would one day challenge the United States.

“We never thought that it would challenge US hegemony but what we are seeing right now, is that we have this challenge of the US hegemony using emerging economies like South Africa [with] these countries being central to the global stage and determining policies instead of inheriting it.

“So considering that Russia and China are permeant members of the UN, it is an important indication of the changing global order,” Mathebula said.

Meanwhile, Naidu said South Africa must align its foreign policy to the new chapter.

“Yes the President was right that it brings a new chapter, but is South Africa understanding what that new chapter is? Is it aligning its foreign policy to the new chapter? You’ve got to think about the alignment of your strategic interests in where you want to position yourself in global affairs.”

The African voice

While the African voice was heard at the gathering, Mathebula said the question was whether or not “Africa will take what it needs.”

“Will Africa use the bloc in the right way to ensure that there’s development within their domestic markets?” she asked.

This year’s summit was held under the theme: ‘BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism’.

Both analysts were of the view that South Africa did a good job in hosting the summit.

“Overall I think it was from a technical, transactional perspective, yes [South Africa] hosted the summit well. It showed that South Africa can host summits and has done so in the past and I think it will be difficult to nit-pick. The summit in itself did give some kind of transactional value to South Africa,” said Naidu.

Asked about what the country could have done better in hosting the summit, Mathebula said while a lot of people had something to say about the summit, there was also plenty of misinformation going around on platforms like TikTok.

“Not many people understood what it was about, the youth don’t know. [I] don’t know if its ignorance… the ignorance that you find in African states are [sic] actually the engineers of underdevelopment … I urge everyone to read on what [the] BRICS is,” said Mathebula. –SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 14:31

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Partnership between Biovac and EUBiologics welcomed

Location: News

Partnership between Biovac and EUBiologics welcomed

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel has welcomed the recently announced partnership between Biovac, a leading South African biopharmaceutical manufacturer and EuBiologics, a global biopharmaceutical company based in South Korea.

The collaboration involves technology transfer of a Meningococcal Meningitis pentavalent conjugate vaccine, a significant stride towards enhancing health equity outcomes globally and bolstering vaccine manufacturing sustainability in Africa.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Biovac and EuBiologics was officially signed in Cape Town, alongside the 24th Annual General Meeting of the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturing Network (DCVMN).

The event, co-hosted by Biovac, gathered global partners, stakeholders and vaccine manufacturers from around the world, emphasizing the global commitment to health equity and vaccine accessibility.

The partnership is a positive development for Biovac, enabling the local production and distribution of a crucial vaccine across Africa, where the demand is most acute.

Meningococcal meningitis, a potentially fatal bacterial infection, poses significant health risks worldwide, with the highest unmet medical need located in the meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa.

The vaccine resulting from this collaboration will offer protection against various strains of the disease, including the emerging serotype X.

“We are pleased that Biovac was able to enter into an arrangement with a South Korean-based company for a vaccine that would be suited not only for South Africa but for our continent, particularly at a time when Africa is on a journey to vaccine manufacturing self-sufficiency,” said Minister Patel, expressing his optimism and support for the partnership.

He further emphasised the potential global and local impact of this collaboration, expressing hope for enhanced global public health.

“This is the beginning of the collaboration between the two companies, but I am hopeful that this will lead to an improvement in global public health, capacity building of an African manufacturer, and most importantly the impact on lives in Africa, where the disease burden is highest,” said Patel.

The dtic remains committed to supporting such impactful collaborations, fostering a climate of innovation, health equity and economic growth within South Africa and across the continent. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 12:13

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Gauteng urged to improve water supply management

Location: News

Gauteng urged to improve water supply management

The Water and Sanitation Ministry has called for improved water supply and management of water resources to ensure provision and reliability of supply in Gauteng.

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, said in as much as there are water supply challenges in some municipalities in Gauteng, there is a high availability of water in the province’s Integrated Vaal River System. 

Mahlobo said the bulk supplier of water to municipalities, Rand Water, is treating and supplying more water to municipalities than it used to. 

“There should not be a problem of water availability in Gauteng because some of the municipalities get more water than they are licensed to have. Rand Water is also abstracting and treating more water supplied to Gauteng municipalities than it used to. 

“However, there are high percentages of loss of water (non-revenue water) due to water leaks, illegal connections, ageing and vandalism of water infrastructure in municipalities. Water is therefore being lost before it can even reach the communities,” Mahlobo said.

Mahlobo also encouraged the municipalities to impose Level 1 water restrictions, especially on water consumers who use water for gardening and irrigation.   

Deputy Ministers, Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, and Rand Water Board Chairperson, Ramateu Monyokolo, this week interacted with the political leaders and councillors of the City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and City of Tshwane, on ways to resolve water supply issues in the municipalities.  

The two-day site visits by the ministry were aimed at assessing areas affected by water shortages in Gauteng metros.

The recent water supply challenges within some municipalities in Gauteng Province prompted Minister Senzo Mchunu, together with his two Deputy Ministers, to embark on a fact-finding mission on the three metros, including the City of Ekurhuleni, City of Tshwane and City of Johannesburg, which are the most affected municipalities with water shortages. 

The department said the main purpose of the visits was to establish the problems and the plans that the municipalities have to remedy the situation. 

On Tuesday, Mchunu met with the leadership of the City of Johannesburg and the communities of South Hills and Ebony Park, which are some of the areas that are also hardest hit by water shortages in recent weeks. 

The event led to a meeting held in the evening with various stakeholders to come up with immediate solutions to the situation.

On Wednesday, Mahlobo met with the leadership of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and was informed that most areas do not have reliable water supply for a prolonged period. This led to the community of Makause informal settlement in Tsakane, to embark on a protracted protest action about lack of water in the area.

The department noted that lack of water is mainly due to intermittent power cuts that affect the reservoir pump stations to pump more water, and the low water levels of the water storage reservoirs in the city. 

“Brakpan reservoir, responsible for supplying water to Duduza, KwaThema and Tsakane, is at a low point of 35% instead of the required 60% - 70%. The low levels of the reservoirs affected water supply to most high-lying areas in the area,” the department said.
 
During a meeting with the councillors of Etwatwa Township in Ekurhuleni, Tshabalala also reiterated the problem of high percentages of water loss and sewer spillages in the municipality. 

She urged the councillors to prioritise issues of water and sanitation, warning that “when neglected, they amount to a violation of human rights to the community members of Ekurhuleni.”
  
Rand Water and the Municipalities have committed to work on an immediate water management plan, including implementing water-shifting, as an interim measure to stabilise the system of the storage reservoirs that are currently low. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 10:27

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Multimedia centre set to boost IT skills of Ezingolweni community

Location: News

Multimedia centre set to boost IT skills of Ezingolweni community

The community of Ezingolweni in Port Shepstone will now have access to the use of a multimedia centre, giving them access to educational content and learning material to upgrade their computer skills. 

Social Development Deputy Minister, Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, in partnership with the MTN SA Foundation, will launch the multimedia centre today in Kwa Nkosi Nzimakwe, Ezingolweni in KwaZulu-Natal. The launch is part of build-up activities to Social Development Month, which is observed in October.

The handover forms part of a longstanding public-private partnership between the department and the MTN SA Foundation. The department said the intention of this initiative is to highlight the urgency and importance of tribal authorities in rural communities. 

In 2018, the Department of Social Development, in partnership with the National House of Traditional Leaders, launched the Rock Leadership Programme, which aims to galvanise traditional leaders in the fight against HIV and Aids, and gender-based violence. 

“The handover of the multimedia centre is the next step in the MTN Foundation’s support of the communities of KwaZulu-Natal at large. 

“The state-of-the-art multimedia centre, with connectivity at MTN’s cost for 24 months, is a 20-seater, with an electronic curriculum and an interactive board,” the department said. 

Social Development Month is celebrated annually to bring social development services closer to the people. This year, the month will be celebrated under the theme: ‘Working together to eradicate poverty and other social ills’. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 09/29/2023 - 09:35

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Pretoria-Kempton Park PRASA service resumes

Location: News

Pretoria-Kempton Park PRASA service resumes

The commuter rail service from Pretoria to Kempton Park has resumed its commercial service, bringing the number of recovered lines by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) to 20.

Commuters can now save on their travel costs, as a trip from Pretoria to Kempton Park costs just R9.50, while Pretoria to Germiston is R11.50, and Pretoria to Olifanstfontein at R8.50.

“The resumption of this service takes us a step closer towards running the service between the three big metros in Gauteng. Soon, trains will be running from Pretoria to Ekurhuleni, and all the way to Johannesburg Park Station, reflecting the interconnectedness between our metros,” PRASA Group CEO, Hishaam Emeran, said.

Thursday’s resumption of the commercial service followed the necessary permit from the Railway Safety Regulator. The agency introduced the service with the new modern high-tech trains from Pretoria to Kempton Park, with a service available from Kempton Park to Germiston station at both peak and off-peak.

The affordable services are expected to ease the burden of travel costs on commuters, many of whom are from the lower LSM groups, spending up to 40% of their household income on transport.

PRASA said it has gained ground in its efforts to rebuild passenger rail corridors and move commuters on the new blue modern trains, Isitimela Sabantu.

To date, 20 lines have been recovered out of 40, with trains now running on 26 operational lines in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

The organisation has made significant progress in rehabilitating vandalised stations, with a total of 230 stations refurbished to basic functionality.

“The number of reopened lines and those earmarked for reopening tells the story of solid progress in returning passenger rail to its rightful place as the future backbone of public transport. By the end of this financial year, PRASA will have recovered 80% of the passenger rail corridors and lines, while bringing to our people a modernized passenger train experience,” Emeran said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 09:27

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SIU probe into Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works tender welcomed

Location: News

SIU probe into Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works tender welcomed

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has welcomed the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into allegations of maladministration and corruption related to the R295 million tender to refurbish and upgrade the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works in the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality.

Mchunu said the mismanagement of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment plant funds will remain "etched in the mind of many South Africans as lives were lost due to alleged improper conduct”.

“We welcome the investigation into the allegations of unlawful and improper conduct related to the tender awarded by the City of Tshwane.

“We believe that the SIU will do a thorough investigation on maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud against any person or entities that were responsible. We also hope that the SIU will recover any financial losses suffered by the State,” Mchunu said.

The investigation into the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works will resume following the signing of a proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa which authorises the SIU to probe the tender of Phase 1 of the upgrades and urgent refurbishment at the wastewater treatment plant. 

The plant receives wastewater from Atteridgeville, Pretoria’s central business district, Pretoria North, Soshanguve South and Rosslyn.

However, due to problems with operations and maintenance, the treated effluent from the waste water treatment works is of sub-standard and it continuously discharges into the Apies River and the Leeuwkraal Dam, resulting in poor water quality in Leeuwkraal Dam. 

The Temba Water Treatment Works (WTW) abstracts water from the Leeuwkraal Dam for purification and supply to the Hammanskraal area. As a result, the water produced at the Temba plant is of poor quality and not potable.

On 20 August 2019, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) declared that water in Hammanskraal was not fit for human consumption. This followed tests on the water with the help of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) after residents lodged complaints with it.  

Mchunu said the department has on numerous occasions engaged with the City of Tshwane on the poor quality of effluent released from the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works.

The department has made interventions, including the western side of Hammanskraal (Refentse), which was supplied with water from the water supply pipelines in Soshanguve, and the Eastern part of Hammanskraal, which was supplied with water by Magalies Water.

However, Mchunu said the central part of Temba is still experiencing problems with the quality of drinking water.

“The Department of Water and Sanitation and the City of Tshwane have formed a partnership to repair and upgrade the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works, and it is estimated that the cost of a full rehabilitation and upgrade of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works will be in the region of R4 billion. 

“The Development Bank of Southern Africa will be appointed as an independent implementing agent to manage the design and construction work, whereas the department and the City of Tshwane will form a joint steering committee to oversee the project,” Mchunu explained.
  
The project will be implemented in stages with an emphasis on work to stop or reduce the pollution from Rooiwal in the early stages. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 12:53

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South Africa, Lesotho BNC kicks off

Location: News

South Africa, Lesotho BNC kicks off

South Africa places great importance on its bilateral relations with its Southern African neighbour, the Kingdom of Lesotho.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was delivering the opening address of the Inaugural Session of the South Africa – Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Pretoria.

According to the Presidency, the BNC session follows an agreement signed by the two countries in November 2021 to elevate the structured bilateral mechanism from a Joint Bilateral Commission of Co-operation (JBCC) that is held at a ministerial level, to a BNC that is presided over by the two Heads of State and Government. 

“Our relationship is anchored in historic bonds of language, culture and heritage. We recall with gratitude that the Kingdom of Lesotho provided shelter and support to South Africa’s liberation movements during the struggle against apartheid,” President Ramaphosa said.

On issues of the economy, the President highlighted that economic ties between the two countries have been fruitful for both nations.

He added that the elevation of the BNC from its previous iteration to one led by the two leaders is testament of the commitment to deepening economic relations.

“Economic relations between our two countries have grown over the years and continue to mutually benefit our respective peoples. South African businesses in Lesotho contribute to job creation while Lesotho’s water resources continue to benefit South Africa.

“It is important for the governments of both countries to work together to resolve challenges faced by businesses and put in place mechanisms to ensure that investments are protected. The elevation of the Joint Bilateral Commission of Cooperation between South Africa and Lesotho to a Bi-National Commission is a testament to the unwavering commitment by our two countries to further bolster our relations for mutual benefit,” President Ramaphosa said.

Water and energy resources

Touching on issues of water supply, the President emphasised the rising importance of the water cooperation through the jointly driven Lesotho Highlands Water Project.

“South Africa highly appreciates the cooperation on water resources between the two countries. In particular, we welcome Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project as a vital development to enhance water security in the Gauteng province and other parts of South Africa.

“The Lesotho Highlands Water Project also contributes to job creation in Lesotho and the construction of new roads, bringing access to previously inaccessible areas of Lesotho. South Africa is ready to cooperate with Lesotho to resolve any challenges that may arise in the implementation of the project,” he said.

President Ramaphosa urged greater cooperation between the two countries on the development of renewable energy.

“South Africa is keen to work with the Kingdom of Lesotho on the four proposed renewable energy projects. In the face of the worsening effects of climate change, we need to be making significant investments to ensure water and energy security for our peoples into the future.

“Our respective ministers should continue their engagements so that we can see progress on these proposed developments,” he said.

Illegal mining

President Ramaphosa commended the Lesotho government on its “commitment…to cooperate with South Africa to deal with challenges of illegal mining in our country”.

“Such activity carries a great social and economic cost for both our countries. We were deeply saddened by the unfortunate loss of the lives of illegal miners in Harmony Gold Mine in Welkom.

“Our respective governments are working with the mining company on the best methods and plan to retrieve the bodies of the miners without endangering the rescue personnel,” President Ramaphosa said. - SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 13:07

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Employment up by 0.4% 

Location: News

Employment up by 0.4% 

Employment has increased by 39 000 or 0.4% quarter-on-quarter, from 10 039 000 in March 2023 to 10 078 000 in June 2023.

This is according to the latest Quarterly Employment Statistics report released by Statistics South Africa on Thursday.

 
According to the report, this was largely due to increases in community services (40 000 or 1.4%), business services (12 000 or 0.5%), mining (2 000 or 0.4%) and electricity (1 000 or 1.7%). 

However, there were decreases in the following industries: manufacturing (-10 000 or -0.8%), transport (-3 000 or -0.7%), trade (-2 000 or -0.1%) and construction (-1 000 or -0.2%).

Total employment was up by 104 000 or 1.0% year-on-year between June 2022 and June 2023.

Full-time employment decreased by 25 000 or -0.3% quarter-on-quarter, from 8 816 000 in March 2023 to 8 791 000 in June 2023. This was largely due to decreases in community services (-11 000 or -0.5%), manufacturing (-10 000 or -0.9%), construction (-6 000 or -1.4%) and transport (-1 000 or -0.3%). 

The electricity and business services industries reported no quarterly change. However, there were increases in mining (2 000 or 0.4%) and trade (1 000 or 0.1%).

Full-time employment decreased by 46 000 or -0.5% year-on-year between June 2022 and June 2023.

Meanwhile, part-time employment increased by 64 000 or 5.2% quarter-on-quarter, from 1 223 000 in March 2023 to 1 287 000 in June 2023. 

This was largely due to increases in community services (51 000 or 8.6%), business services (12 000 or 5.2%), construction (5 000 or 7.1%) and electricity (1 000 or 100.0%). 

The manufacturing industry reported no quarterly change. However, there were decreases in the following industries: trade (-3 000 or -1.3%) and transport (-2 000 or -11.8%).

Part-time employment increased by 150 000 or 13,2% year-on-year between June 2022 and June 2023.

The second quarter report also provides insight into employment figures in industries before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Three out of eight industries (mining, manufacturing and community services) have returned to pre-pandemic employment levels.

“Gross earnings paid to employees increased by R3.6 billion or 0.4% from R828.7 billion in March 2023 to R832.4 billion in June 2023. This was largely due to increases in the following industries: community services, trade, transport, construction, manufacturing and mining. However, there were decreases in the following industries: business services and electricity.

“The year-on-year total gross earnings increased by R42.9 billion or 5.4% between June 2022 and June 2023,” StatsSA said. 

StatsSA said that basic salary/wages paid to employees increased by R19.3 billion or 2.6% from R738,5 billion in March 2023 to R757.8 billion in June 2023. 

This was largely due to increases in the following industries: community services, business services, trade, manufacturing, construction, transport and mining. However, the electricity industry reported a quarterly decrease.
 
The year-on-year basic salary/wages increased by R38.6 billion or 5.4% between June 2022 and June 2023.
 
“Bonuses paid to employees decreased by R17.7 billion or -26.4% from R66.9 billion in March 2023 to R49.3 billion in June 2023. This was largely due to decreases in the following industries: business services, manufacturing, community services and electricity. However, there were increases in the following industries: transport, trade and construction.
 
“The year-on-year bonus payments increased by R2.1 billion or 4.4% between June 2022 and June 2023,” StatsSA said. 
 

Meanwhile, overtime paid to employees increased by R2.0 billion or 8.7% from R23.3 billion in March 2023 to R25.4 billion in June 2023. 

This was largely due to increases in the following industries: manufacturing, business services, transport, trade, construction and electricity. However, the community services industry reported a quarterly decrease.

 “The year-on-year overtime payments increased by R2.3 billion or 10.1% between June 2022 and June 2023.

 “Average monthly earnings showed a quarter-on-quarter increase of 2.8%, from R25 274 in February 2023 to R25 994 in May 2023. Year-on-year, average monthly earnings increased by 5.4%,” StatsSA said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 14:32

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Decisive actions needed for prosperous, sustainable economies

Location: News

Decisive actions needed for prosperous, sustainable economies

Governments must take “decisive and intentional actions” to steer their countries to economic prosperity as the world enters a period of low growth.

This is the word from Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana who was delivering the opening address at the BRICS Infrastructure Investment Symposium on Thursday.

“At a time when the global economy is gradually recovering from multiple adverse shocks, the International Monetary Fund in its April 2023 World Economic Outlook warns that the world is entering a perilous phase during which economic growth is expected to remain low by historical standards and the downside risks dominate.

“The warning by the Fund and the elevated risks calls for decisive and intentional actions if we are to steer economies towards a prosperous, sustainable and inclusive economy. For our part as BRICS countries, we are committed to leveraging infrastructure investments to do this. And as important contributors to the faster growth projected in emerging market and development economies, we remain open for investment,” Godongwana said.

The Minister said in this regard, infrastructure investments form a key part of how economic recovery can be realised.

“It is when investments are made that a partnership towards an equitable just transition, strengthening of the post-pandemic growth, support to socio-economic development and the attainment of the SDG 2030 Agenda priorities will be realised.

“Infrastructure investments benefit everyone – for the economy, it is about growth and development, for citizens about access to social services, for investors a return on investment, for industry the ability to operate and compete, for job seekers employment opportunities, and for the marginalised, inclusivity. This is the reason why we are focused on stimulating investment,” he said.

Godongwana highlighted that although investment in infrastructure development is also a key factor, the “constrained fiscal position of many emerging market and developing economies mean that their abilities to fund much of their infrastructure investments is limited”.

“However, the development and delivery of infrastructure ought not to depend on the availability of public resources, both financial and non-financial. The OECD [Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development] estimates that US$80 trillion of long-term investor asset base can be unlocked for infrastructure development.

“We know that infrastructure investments offer stable, attractive and long term returns and cashflows for investors. For this reason, while the financing gap is seemingly large, through greater collaboration and effective partnerships, the gap can be closed. The question is how?

“It is well known that despite increased efforts to mobilise private investment for infrastructure in emerging markets, the uptake has been relatively slow. Thus, the Symposium is focused on measures needed to promote the uptake of private capital in achieving the infrastructure agendas and plans of the BRICS countries,” he said.

The Minister called on the symposium to not only collectively find solutions to economic challenges but to also “go fast because there are significant opportunity costs associated with the status quo”.

“We must also think strategically, laterally and pragmatically because the BRICS countries' infrastructure agendas are ambitious. And to advance these, scale, innovation and sustainability must be at the centre.

“As for governments and officials, we undertake to keep an open mind in these engagements. We will review and strengthen our regulatory systems and processes, earnestly consider alternative approaches proposed to increase the pace of infrastructure development and delivery, and build our capacity and capability.

“We know that without these critical enablers, our quest to create opportunities for mutually accelerated growth and sustainable development is unachievable,” Godongwana said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 15:17

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BMA to safeguard SA’s borders

Location: News

BMA to safeguard SA’s borders

The newly established Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner, Dr Mike Masiapata, has assured South Africans that the entity will get rid of corruption and ensure that the country’s borders are safe.

The BMA came into effect on 1 April 2023, and it is expected to be officially launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Musina, Limpopo, next week.

Masiapata explained that the BMA was established to ensure that the country is protected.

Speaking at the National Press Club media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Masiapata said legislative frameworks had to be looked at prior to the establishment of the BMA.

“Since 1994, South Africa has been using a multi-agency approach in its border management. It was therefore decided that a single agency was needed to manage the country’s borders,” Masiapata said.

Masiapata said the previous multi-agency included seven departments and agencies, including the Departments of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment; Health; Home Affairs; the South African National Defence Force (SANDF); the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS), which all have a physical presence in the border environment.

Masiapata said managing the country’s borders has been a challenge, especially with the old system.

He explained that the aim of establishing the new agency was to deal with the challenges that the country faces.

“For almost 15 years, there have been some discussions to try and have the Border Management Authority established to deal with the challenges the country is faced with. There was a lot of corruption brought by the old system,” Masiapata said.

Masiapata said BMA officials will be thoroughly vetted.

The BMA has, since its inception, recorded successes, amongst them intercepting stolen vehicles.

In June 2013, Cabinet made the decision to establish a Border Management Agency under the guidance of the DHA.

The decision was taken in recognition of the National Intelligence Co-ordinating Committee  (NICOC) 2012 Feasibility Study, which had highlighted weaknesses in border management.

The authority will be responsible for the execution of frontline border law enforcement functions related to, inter alia, port health, immigration control, access control, biosecurity, food safety and phyto-sanitary control, land border infrastructure development and maintenance, and border information and risk management.

It is intended that the new agency, the BMA, 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 developmental responsibilities and human rights imperatives. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 15:29

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Pandor pays tribute to the late Aziz Pahad

Location: News

Pandor pays tribute to the late Aziz Pahad

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, says Aziz Pahad will be remembered for his outstanding contribution to the fight against apartheid and life-long commitment to the promotion of human rights on the international stage. 

Pahad passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 82. 

Pahad served as the Deputy Minister of the then Department of Foreign Affairs - now the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) from 1994 to 2008. 

“In this role, Pahad became one of the first people at the forefront of establishing relations with the international community after many countries had severed ties with South Africa during the apartheid years,” the department said. 

The department described the former Deputy Minister as a fierce proponent of an independent foreign policy for South Africa. 

“He was a principled champion for human rights, especially the oppressed and marginalised people. From Palestine to Western Sahara, he spoke for the voiceless and was unwavering in his implementation of South Africa's foreign policy, which recognises the right to self-determination of the aforementioned peoples.”

In April 2021, the University of Pretoria conferred him an honorary doctorate in Literature for his “contributions to local and international peace, security, justice and international solidarity”. 

The university said: “Pahad’s contributions and approach to diplomacy bring strong moral convictions, careful judgement and, above all, a quiet, influential determination in the search for solutions to South Africa’s challenges”. 

Years after relinquishing his role in government, Pahad remained active in civic affairs. 

In 2018, he chaired the Foreign Policy Review Panel appointed by Minister Lindiwe Sisulu. 

“As a result of the report, DIRCO initiated a number of changes aimed at enhancing the implementation of South Africa's foreign policy.” 

Post-retirement, Pahad also maintained close ties with those pursuing the Palestinian and Saharawi causes. 

“These were causes he would remain dear to, for as long as he lived.”

At the Ubuntu Awards organised by DIRCO early this year, Pahad was awarded the OR Tambo Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to a South Africa that is free and democratic and a world that is fair and just. 

“On behalf of all South African diplomats at home and abroad, and all freedom-loving people of the world, we pass our deepest condolences to the Pahad family. 

“May the indomitable spirit of Pahad continue to guide our country as we continue the search for a better South Africa and a better world.” – SAnews.gov.za 
 

Gabisile
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 15:50

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Inaugural Bi-National Commission deepens South Africa, Lesotho ties

Location: News

Inaugural Bi-National Commission deepens South Africa, Lesotho ties

South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho have held frank and fruitful bilateral discussions on wide ranging issues during the Inaugural Session of the South Africa – Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC).

This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who hosted his counterpart, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho Ntsokoane Matekane and that country’s delegation for the BNC in Pretoria on Thursday.

President Ramaphosa described the BNC as a “great opportunity to take stock of our bilateral relations as well as cooperation in a number of fields”.

“We have now come to the end of our inaugural bi-national where we’ve held outstanding deliberations between our two countries. Deliberations that have been frank and direct and in many ways also very fruitful. We’ve covered a lot of ground.

“We remain forever grateful for the strong ties that exist between our countries and peoples. The work we have just completed is the continuation of our endeavours towards the realisation of our shared aspirations,” President Ramaphosa said.

The BNC was attended by Ministers and senior government officials from both countries who – preceding Thursday’s summit – discussed matters including water, energy, crime, environmental issues, trade and economic challenges affecting both countries.

“The comprehensive report that was presented by our respective Ministers captures the real essence and the state of our bilateral cooperation in detail and this in itself speaks of the healthy relationship between the two countries.

“A relationship that continues to broaden and deepens…encompassing a whole number of new areas as the world continues to develop,” President Ramaphosa said.

He impressed upon officials and Ministers at the BNC the importance of ensuring that existing agreements entered into between the two governments are implemented.

“We emerge from this Inaugural BNC with renewed energy and vigour for the task of building our economies and developing our two nations. We should use this mechanism of the Bi-National Commission…to enhance and consolidate the implementation of existing agreements to ensure that those agreements are not just put on the shelf and…forever not to be seen again.

“We want the agreements that we have entered into to be live agreements and to be agreements that are fully and properly implemented,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, President Ramaphosa reflected on the mutual future that the two nations have.

“Just as our two countries share common histories, so too do we share a common future.

“So we are bound together to work together to build a sustainable and a prosperous as well secure future for all the people of South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 14:34

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SA to participate in international agriculture exhibition

Location: News

SA to participate in international agriculture exhibition

South Africa is to participate in the sixth International Exhibition of Agriculture and Animal Resources to be held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. 

Known as the Salon International de l’agriculture et des Resources Animales (SARA), the bi-annual event brings together the agricultural expertise present in Ivory Coast, the sub-region and the world.

SARA aims to promote agriculture products, livestock farming, fishing, forestry, and the agro-food industry.

Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Mcebisi Skwatsha, will attend the sixth edition of SARA, taking place from 29 September to 08 October 2023.

The department said the event is a pragmatic implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) through inter-regional and inter-country value chains development.

“Various stakeholders across the South African agriculture fraternity will spearhead South Africa’s exhibition during the Abidjan Fair. This will promote technical and technological expertise and richness of our local products. 

“Furthermore, it will expose South Africa’s small producers to the international market system,” the department said in a statement.

The event will be held under the theme “African Agriculture facing the challenges of internal and external shocks: What structural innovations to improve the agricultural sectors and guarantee the food sovereignty of our countries?” – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 13:24

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Cabinet approves revised game meat strategy for South Africa

Location: News

Cabinet approves revised game meat strategy for South Africa

Cabinet has approved the implementation of the Revised Game Meat Strategy for South Africa, which seeks to formalise and transform the game meat industry. 

Briefing the media in Pretoria on the outcomes of Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the strategy is also designed to contribute towards food security for the country.

“It aims to strengthen the game meat sector as both provider of food security and an economic growth sector that can help create job opportunities,” Ntshavheni said. 

South Africa is ranked number one on the African continent for game meat production and therefore, said the Minister, needs to take full advantage of the economic opportunities that the sector provides.

“Ultimately, the strategy seeks to ensure the creation of 202 666 sustainable jobs in the game meat industry by 2030.”

The strategy will be published on the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment website at www.dffe.gov.za.

Tourism Master Plan 

Cabinet has also given the go ahead for the Department of Tourism to align the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan to a new Tourism Master Plan. 

An important component of the Master Plan is to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism sector and provides a road map for full recovery of tourism in the country. 

The Tourism Sector Recovery Plan was developed to facilitate the recovery of the sector, preserve jobs and protect livelihoods. 

Ntshavheni said the Master Plan will take this work to another level and facilitate new opportunities in the sector.

“The plan proposes seven intervention strategies to ensure the tourism sector returns to its glory days and that the sector becomes the centre of job creation and entrepreneurship. These interventions include stimulating demand through rigorous campaigns, promoting South Africa internationally and cutting red tape in the processing of visas and tour operator licences. 

“The tourism industry is a vital contributor to the economy and supported 725 000 jobs before COVID 19. Cabinet believes that the interventions will go a long way in restoring the role of tourism in the economy and job creation,” Ntshavheni said. 

Competition Commission’s work commended 

Meanwhile, Cabinet commended the work of the Competition Commission in addressing monopoly concerns in digital intermediation platforms, including ecommerce, online travel agencies, food delivery, app stores, classifieds providers and search engines.

This comes after Cabinet received a report from the Commission outlining the findings and remedial actions on the Online Intermediation Platform Market Inquiry.

Ntshavheni said Cabinet has directed Ministers of the Economic Cluster to interrogate the policy implications and recommend required policy reforms.  

“Cabinet encouraged the Commission to continue its good work in enabling SME’s and previously disadvantaged people, especially Black people to actively participate in the economy of their country,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 11:30

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Cabinet approves Draft Water Services Amendment Bill 

Location: News

Cabinet approves Draft Water Services Amendment Bill 

Cabinet has approved the publication of the Water Services Amendment Bill for public comment. 

The Bill aims to strengthen accountability for water service providers and to introduce transparency. 

“The amendments to the Water Services Act will ensure that water service providers deliver high quality water as part of their licensing conditions.

“The amendments will also address weakness that have been identified in the water services sector, and these include conflict with water services providers being both providers and regulators. The Bill sets minimum standards for the functioning of Water Services Providers, which must be enforced by Water Services Authorities,” Cabinet said. 

Draft National Water Amendment Bill

Cabinet has also approved the publication of the draft National Water Amendment Bill for public comment. The Bill amends the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998). 

“These amendments will improve regulations and will ensure that the country’s water resources are well managed, protected and conserved. Once the amendments are implemented, there will be equitable allocation of water to all citizens of the country,” Cabinet said. 

The Bill also makes proposals to eliminate the imbalances of the past relating to water allocation and makes provisions for effective and quicker internal dispute resolution mechanisms.

SABC Bill 2023

Cabinet has approved the submission of the SABC Bill, 2023 to Parliament.
 
Cabinet initially approved the Bill in 2022, however, the Office of the Chief State Law Advisor subsequently made suggestions on certain provisions of the Bill in order to align it with the constitution. 

“Once passed into law, the Bill will result in the repeal of the current Broadcasting Act (Act 4 of 1999). The amendments will strengthen the efficiency of the operations of the public broadcaster. The Bill further proposes reforms in the SABC’s funding model and the TV licensing system,” Cabinet said. 

The Bill encourages the SABC to align its broadcasting services with the democratic values of the Constitution and to enhance its mandate to serve citizens better. – SAnews.gov.za
 
 

DikelediM
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 11:31

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Addressing the unemployment challenge

Location: News

Addressing the unemployment challenge

Whether young or old, unemployment is a thorn in the flesh of many South Africans, writes Neo Semono.

Whether in our families or within our circle of friends, many of us know someone who is without a job. The situation is so dire that we may even know more than one individual who does not have a job, and it is not due to the lack of trying nor to the lack of qualifications.

Those who are unemployed want to wake up in the morning to go and make an honest living for themselves and their loved ones. Through their work, they also want to make a difference in the country that they live in.

Recent data has shown that the country’s joblessness rate has come down slightly. Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) has shown that the unemployment rate decreased from 32.9% in the first quarter to 32.6% in the second quarter of 2023.

Granted, the figure is marginal - but 154 000 new jobs were created in the second quarter, taking the number of employed persons to 16.3 million - a flicker of hope for those who may have given up on finding work.

Finding a job is hard and is further exacerbated by the costs that job seekers may not be able to cover. In the quest to find jobs, money is borrowed to visit internet cafes to search and apply for work, to printout CVs and to drop off said applications at prospective employer’s offices.

Having altered the CV more times than one can remember, and filing out more online applications and Z83 forms, hope and confidence take a knock when one does not get that invitation to a job interview.

While that hope is sometimes on shaky ground, South Africans don’t quit. Instead, they make a plan, even if it means taking on any job to make ends meet. Some go on to start innovative businesses that change their local landscapes while also giving jobs and training to others in their respective communities.

This speaks to the innate resilience of the people of this country in that individuals not only deviate from their original life plan, but that they also give work opportunities to others who may not have had the opportunity to put a foot in the door of larger establishments minus the required skills.

While one will always find fault with government, it cannot resolve the unemployment challenge on its own. And while it should have done better in tackling it, it is doing something about it.

This includes the employment of people with disabilities. Through the Presidential Working Group on Disability, government is working on increasing funding for disability-related programmes and services. This includes funding for the education, training and employment of people with disabilities.

Well aware of the unemployment problem particularly around the youth, government has put in place the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI). Through the initiative announced in 2020, at least 135 000 earning opportunities were secured by young people.

The Department of Employment and Labour--which has labour offices across the country-- offers tips on how to find a job and how to fill out the Z83 form. It also has career counsellors to assist job seekers in preparing for interviews and other career related services for free.

Mobile employment centres are also available to assist work seekers to sign up for the Employment Services System of South Africa (ESSA) which is a platform where work seekers are matched with available job opportunities for free.

Other government initiatives to get particularly young people into work include the Gauteng government’s Nasi Ispan ("Here is work") mass recruitment programme that aims to get thousands of young people into state jobs.

The Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) which has been in existence for close to two decades continues to make a difference in people’s lives. It provides an important avenue for labour-absorption and income to poor households in the short to medium-term.

The implementation of government plans is also making an impact with the Poultry Masterplan which contributed to the creation of 750 jobs at a Rainbow Chicken facility.

The adoption of the masterplan saw government implement several measures to safeguard the local industry including placing anti-dumping duties on imported poultry.

This is the same Rainbow Chicken which in 2017 closed its operations in Hammarsdale and retrenched over a thousand workers.

The adoption of the plan was also coupled with increased investment and measures to transform the industry has led to success with the company reopening and investing R220 million.

Government is not just talking the talk; it is also putting in the work for its people who have a never say die attitude. –SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 10:40

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KZN Premier pays tribute to Zoleka Mandela

Location: News

KZN Premier pays tribute to Zoleka Mandela

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has joined South Africans in expressing her deepest condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of Zoleka Mandela.

Mandela, who was the granddaughter of the late first South African democratically elected President Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, passed away on Monday at the age of 43.

She was admitted to hospital on 18 September 2023 for ongoing treatment for metastatic cancer in the hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain and spinal cord.

In her tribute, Dube-Ncube said Mandela was a brave and outspoken advocate for cancer awareness.

“Her story and her fight against cancer inspired many people to seek help and support those who are affected by cancer, and her legacy will live on in the work that continues to be done to raise awareness on cancer.

“Zoleka Mandela was a fighter: at a young age she fought abuse and later in life she fought cancer, and in her battle with cancer she became an inspiration to many people. Zoleka was a loving mother to her children, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said Mandela’s legacy will live on in the work that continues to be done to improve the lives of cancer patients in South Africa.

She urged people who are battling cancer to seek help at an early stage so that it is detected and attended to. 

“There are many resources available to help people get the support they need, and there is no shame in asking for help. If you are struggling with cancer, please know that you are not alone.

“There are many people who care about you and want to help. Please reach out to a trusted friend or family member, or contact health professionals," Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 12:27

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PSC encourages public servants to expose corruption

Location: News

PSC encourages public servants to expose corruption

Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Advocate Anele Gxoyiya has called on all public servants to come out and expose corruption, saying they will be protected accordingly, in terms of the Protected Disclosures Act.

“Public servants know what is right and wrong in the workplace, in terms of their employment contract," Gxoyiya said.

Addressing media in Pretoria on the Quarterly Bulletin titled, 'The Pulse of the Public Service', Gxoyiya said ethical dilemmas can arise when employees are pressured to compromise their values in order to meet work demands or when they witness unethical behavior by some colleagues or superiors and feel powerless to intervene.

“The fear of reprisal or punishment for speaking out against such wrongdoing often adds another layer of complexity to these ethical dilemmas,” Gxoyiya said.

Gxoyiya said the Zondo Commission exposed a lot of unethical behavior in the Public Service and State Owned Entities which must be investigated by the Law Enforcement Agencies.

“The PSC welcomed the signing of a proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa in August 2023, which authorizes the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to probe allegations of corruption in Tembisa Hospital. This is a step in the right direction.

“Public servants are required to promote professional ethics in their conduct during the performance of their duties, when interacting with members of the public and when managing state resources.

“Public servants have the obligation to account for their actions. It is therefore for this reason that all government employees should internalize the CVPs in their day-to-day work towards contributing to an ethical and corrupt free Public Service,” Gxoyiya said.

Gxoyiya said the Public Service Commission has, at the end of June 2023, registered 184 grievances, including 114 carried over from the previous financial year.

Of the 184 grievances, 24 (13%) were not properly referred and 160 (87%) were properly referred. Grievances which were not properly referred are those that were either being dealt with elsewhere (such as bargaining councils) or those that were still not finalized at the departmental level.

Gxoyiya said departments and organized labour are encouraged to consider mediation as an alternative means of resolving matters of conflict as this is mutually beneficial for the relationship between the parties.

“The PSC has the mandate to investigate, either of its own accord or on receipt of any complaint, personnel and public administration practices to report to the relevant EAs and Legislature.

“The own accord investigations undertaken are identified through an analysis of the trends of the complaints handled previously and through media reports,” Gxoyiya said.

Gxoyiya said the PSC’s intervention and proposed corrective measures are essential in promoting good governance in public administration.

The PSC noted that most of its investigations yielded positive results on improving good governance and accountability in the Public Service. In issuing recommendations, the PSC encouraged departments to maintain the principles conferred in section 195(1) of the Constitution. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 12:40

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Work continues between government and business to tackle SA’s immediate challenges

Location: News

Work continues between government and business to tackle SA’s immediate challenges

President Cyril Ramaphosa has met with members of Cabinet and senior business leaders to receive an update on progress made in the collaboration between government and business. 

This collaboration was initiated in June 2023, with the aim of significantly growing South Africa’s economy, and restoring public and investor confidence through critical interventions to address the key challenges of energy, logistics, and crime and corruption. 

Highlighting the meaningful progress made since the start of the initiative in a joint statement, President Ramaphosa said they have established an effective working relationship between government and business to tackle the most immediate challenges facing the economy. 

“While we have identified key milestones and set out the processes to achieve these, the real test of our success will be in the results felt by ordinary citizens. 

“We are confident that by working together and marshalling the significant resources and expertise that exist in our country, we will end load shedding, fix our logistics system, and tackle crime and corruption,” the President said. 

Adrian Gore, co-convenor of the business delegation, said while it’s early in the partnership, the collective work rate has been excellent and "there are clear areas of progress", which he believes they can build upon to achieve real change.

 
“Putting in place a viable, critical path per focal area, with clear short-term deliverables against which we collectively measure our progress, is crucial for building confidence in our ability to deliver,” Gore said. 

The joint statement sated that good traction has been achieved within the energy focal area, through the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM), which has been established to ensure delivery of the Energy Action Plan (EAP).

Business and government reaffirmed the importance of the EAP as the country’s blueprint for reducing the severity and frequency of load shedding in the short term and ending it altogether in the long term. 

“Full implementation of the plan across three core priorities – improving the performance of Eskom’s existing power stations; adding new generation capacity, and reforming the energy sector – will result in over 12GW of generation capacity being recovered or added to the system from Eskom and the private sector by the end of 2024,” the statement read. 

As part of this collaboration, CEO of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), Cas Coovadia, and chair of the Steering Committee of Business for South Africa (B4SA), Martin Kingston noted that business is mobilising additional capacity and skills to support the implementation of the EAP. 

This includes nearly 130 volunteers from the private sector who are being coordinated through the Energy Council of South Africa to work in partnership with Eskom and government. The deployment of technical support teams to five power stations – Kendal, Kriel, Majuba, Matla, and Tutuka – is on track, in addition to ongoing support for the return of Kusile Units 1 to 3. 

Energy stabilty

The joint statement highlighted that the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill has been tabled in Parliament, and the public comment period is underway. Government is engaging closely with Parliament to prioritise the passage of this Bill, given its crucial importance for the reform of the energy sector. 

Encouraging progress has been made in the establishment of the National Transmission Company of South Africa (NTCSA), with all three licenses approved by the National Energy Regulator of SA (NERSA), and the appointment of an independent board is in process. 

The One Stop Shop for energy projects has been established, and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed with the Energy Council to support enhancement of its capacity and systems to further streamline regulatory processes and facilitate private investment in energy generation.

In the logistics focal area, the collaboration is centered on ensuring implementation of immediate operational interventions, which have already been defined, alongside the development of the Freight Logistics Roadmap. 

Government has committed to finalise the roadmap, which will outline a sequenced set of actions to fundamentally reform the logistics system, by the end of October 2023. Business emphasized the urgency of this roadmap in the context of the ongoing challenges in the logistics system.

 
“Six of the eight work streams of the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC) are now fully operational, while the remaining two will transition from Operation Vulindlela. Interventions to improve the operational performance of the multimodal bulk freight rail network and port system are well underway through the NLCC”. 

Corridor Recovery Teams have been established for five strategic corridors, comprising Transnet managing executives, industry representatives and independent experts, and a delivery plan has been developed with specific actions and timeframes to achieve the targeted increase in freight volumes. 

Business and government further emphasized the need to support the Board of Transnet in its turnaround plan in order to drive operational improvement and sustainability. 

“A multi-disciplinary team has been formed to address congestion challenges at the Lebombo border crossing, resulting in a reduction in the border processing time, while a dedicated work stream has been established to expedite the restoration of passenger rail services. Law enforcement agencies are working to protect rail infrastructure through a range of interventions, including aerial surveillance on the North and Central Corridors as well as the Majuba rail line,” government and business said. 

In the crime and corruption focal area, current engagements centre on building capacity within the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), along with the modernisation of the 10111 emergency response centre and collaboration between industry and the SAPS to address crimes targeting infrastructure. 

The NPA Amendment Bill has been tabled to establish the Investigating Directorate as a permanent entity with investigative powers. 

This Bill responds to a key recommendation of the State Capture Commission of Inquiry, and will strengthen the capacity and independence of the NPA to tackle corruption-related crimes. A further meeting will be held in six weeks’ time to assess progress on these commitments. 

“During this period, the immediate focus will be on ensuring the passage of critical reform legislation such as the ERA Bill and the NPA Amendment Bill; scaling up technical support for power station performance recovery; finalizing and adopting the Freight Logistics Roadmap; and establishing a joint delivery mechanism to coordinate agreed interventions to tackle crime and corruption,” the joint statement said. 

Both government and business continue to engage with other social partners in parallel, as part of their respective commitments to advance collaboration on shared national objectives. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 13:42

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Read moreWork continues between government and business to tackle SA’s immediate challenges

Mchunu calls for water shifting to address water outages

Location: News

Mchunu calls for water shifting to address water outages

Water service authorities have been called on by Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, to implement water shifting as part of interim plans to address the challenges that have left some communities in Gauteng without water.

Mchunu held an engagement with community members from South Hill in Johannesburg on Tuesday, following the water supply challenges experienced in the area.

Residents in South Hills have been without water for over two weeks. Johannesburg Water advised that this was as a result of low levels in Rand Water’s Klipriviersberg reservoir, which was caused by the power failure at Rand Water’s Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Plant following the storm on 19 September 2023. 

During the meeting, residents complained that while some of them have been without water for weeks, they have received high water bills. 

The residents told the Minister that grievances are taken seriously only when they take to the streets. They further said there was zero accountability from the government regarding lack of basic service delivery.

Responding to the community members, Mchunu said decisions taken from the meeting should be implemented as soon as possible.

“We must not subject people to emotional stress all the time. Hold us accountable because water is a sensitive and emotional subject. We are focused on resolving the problems,” Mchunu said.

He said the issues that came from the meeting include accountability, water shifting, poor infrastructure, reservoirs and water conservation.

Regarding water shifting, Mchunu said Rand Water has assured him that they will do load shifting from a line that is not too busy and redirect to Palmiet, until the system recovers and is able to supply even high-lying areas.

“We are going to water shift as an interim measure. Technicians will be monitoring the system 24/7 as we shift water from systems to systems,” Mchunu explained.

The Minister called on Rand Water to have a set timeline for when the extra 150 mega litres will be made available from Station 5A.

He said the City of Johannesburg must start the process of replacing old leaking pipes to stop large volume of water being lost due to leaks.

“Water shifting is not a permanent solution, so we have to do something permanent to address this challenge. I support Joburg Water's initiative to construct a temporary pump station to assist with the turnaround recovery of water shortages.

“Joburg Water will share implementation plans and time frames regarding the development of the sump at the South Hills tower,” he said.

The Ministry of Water and Sanitation is currently conducting site visits to various areas in Gauteng that have been affected by water outages. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 13:50

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Read moreMchunu calls for water shifting to address water outages

Presidency expresses condolences to the Mandela family 

Location: News

Presidency expresses condolences to the Mandela family 

Presidential spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, has extended the Presidency’s sincerest condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of their grandchild, author and activist, Zoleka Mandela.

“As the Presidency, we add our sincerest condolences to the sympathies expressed by many individuals and organisations at the passing of Ms Zoleka Mandela.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Ms Mandela, who has passed away at an age that has deprived all of us of benefiting from the full potential of her charismatic and creative commitment to a diversity of social causes and campaigns,” Magwenya said.

The Presidency wished the family well in their preparations for remembering and taking leave of Zoleka. 

Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of anti-apartheid heroes Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, died on Monday evening after a prolonged battle with cancer. 

The 43-year-old, who lost her long battle with cancer, passed away on the eve of her grandmother's birthday. The struggle stalwart would have turned 87 this year.

Western Cape floods

Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sympathy to the people who have been affected by the recent floods in the Western Cape. 

“The President would like to extend his sympathies to all the people who have been affected by the recent floods in the Western Cape. The President also expresses his condolences to those who have lost their loved ones during this disaster,” Magwenya said. 

Magwenya said the President is grateful for the speedy response and hard work demonstrated by various disaster management teams, law enforcement agencies, NGOS and officials who have continued to work under testing conditions to ensure the safety of citizens. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 14:02

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Read morePresidency expresses condolences to the Mandela family