SA News

6 August 2023

Stable municipalities are imperative for South Africa

Location: News

Stable municipalities are imperative for South Africa

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says managing coalition governments better remains imperative in stabilising local government and improving service delivery.

He was addressing a media briefing at the National Dialogue on Coalition Governments in Cape Town.

“The Minister of CoGTA [Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs minister Thembi Nkadimeng] remains my key partner in driving this because, as you have seen, we are quite focused at local government where we have more challenges. So the Minister of CoGTA is key because the dialogue itself felt that there is an urgency in addressing challenges at local government level.

“We will definitely be looking at how these engagements will allow us to go down to local government to ensure that we have stable coalitions that are focused on good governance and serving the people even much better than they have been doing up to now,” he said on Saturday

The Deputy President said further engagements will be held in order to thrash out finer details.

“We only finished commissions [on Saturday], the secretariat needs more time to factor in the comments of political parties so they agreed that we will finalise the declaration once we have taken into account [political parties] comments.

“The most important thing is that all those who participated felt that we are going to need more engagements. There were issues where political parties expressed different views…that they felt need further refining.

“But generally, the idea of a national framework is agreed to but the issues of how you are going to implement it, whether you need legislation or regulation, those are the issues that are going to go for further refinement,” he said.

Earlier, during his closing address of the dialogue, the Deputy President called on political parties to work together to bring much needed stability and economic growth to South Africa.

“All what needed to be said this weekend, has been said. We came, we engaged, we listened to one another and we have agreed that this issue of coalitions is something that is with us and needs to be discussed.

“We want stability in the country, we want economic growth [and] we want a South Africa that is prosperous. We want municipalities to be stable… we want to make South Africa work. We can do it if we ensure stability in the country,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 08/06/2023 - 09:33

5 August 2023

Giyani water project is still on course, Mchunu

Location: News

Giyani water project is still on course, Mchunu

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has reassured the community of Giyani and the country that the Giyani Water Project is still on course as outlined earlier this year.

“We have committed ourselves and we are hard at work to ensure that this project reaches completion and within the set timeframes. We have been very transparent concerning the work that has been taking place and we have been conducting regular oversight visits,” Mchunu said.

Mchunu admitted that the department has experienced hurdles along the way, and the project has experienced major delays due to scope of work changes and added packages.

He said access denial by traditional leaders, including community protests and restrictions on the pipe route from Nandoni to Giyani, poor project management and to an extent, and the weather patterns that delayed work progress by not less than four weeks, hindered progress that would ensure that the bulk pipeline was completed within the allocated time.

“As announced in April, the rest of the remaining work is still on course and the work packages are being implemented simultaneously to ensure that the project is completed on time,” Mchunu said.

Mchunu’s statement comes following misleading information spread by a political party on Giyani water challenges.

Mchunu acknowledged that the project had been marred by serious challenges of poor management and corruption that has led to the loss of billions of rands and the project stalling for several years.

“This has been an eyesore, not only to the residents of that area, but also to us as government and the rest of South Africa,” Mchunu said.

Mchunu said upon the department’s appointment in 2021, and having received a report about the project and its events, Lepelle Northern Water Board was instructed, as the implementing agent, to resume the project and ensure that it is fast-tracked and completed.

He said while the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) conducted its own investigation into the loss of billions of rands that could not be accounted for, the department understood that the people of Giyani could not wait any longer to have access to one of their basic human rights.

On the allegation that there is no accountability on the matter, Mchunu said, the SIU has completed its investigations and have instituted legal action for the repayment of over R 2.3 billion by three former Lepelle Northern Water employees.

“The accusation that the President and I lack accountability does not even arise at all. There are four components to the scheme and each with their own timelines. We will always have timeframes attached to projects and consequently, when we fail to meet those deadlines or when we do indeed succeed in meeting them, we will always take the public into confidence, and we have done exactly that,” Mchunu explained.

Mchunu said the people of Giyani are getting water through various means, via boreholes (as a temporary measure), the old system although intermittently, as the system is currently being refurbished, and via water tankers.

In addition to the four components of the project, the villages in Malamulele West will be receiving water from the Nandoni Water Treatment Works, following the laying of a 26.58 km pipeline; reticulation, which Mopani District Municipality is attending to, which is the only outstanding element.

Work packages

The four work packages of the Giyani Bulk Water Supply Scheme include work package 1, which consists of the construction of the 40.5 km raw bulk pipeline which transfers raw bulk water from Nandoni Dam to Nsami Dam, thereby augmenting raw water from the Middle Letaba Dam.

Mchunu said the water will be treated in the Giyani Water Treatment Works situated in Nsami, into potable water, adding that the bulk water infrastructure project was completed on 5 April 2023.

Work package 2 includes construction of a 325 km pipeline to supply bulk water from Giyani Water Treatment Works to 55 villages from the commanding reservoir in Nsami to the reservoirs that will ultimately supply water to the 55 villages.

Mchunu said the project is currently underway, and 300 km of installations have already been covered and the project is at 63% completion.

He said the third package is in 2 phases, with the first being to refurbish the 30 megalitres a day (ml/d) Giyani Water Treatment Works back to its optimal capacity.

“The water treatment is currently functioning at 17 ml/d and is unable to meet the current demand in the area [and] the project is scheduled to be completed in December 2023. The second phase of this work package is to upgrade the water treatment plant with a further 10 ml/d; this is to ensure that it covers villages that are now being included on the network and will start in the new financial year, April 2024” Mchunu explained.

The project is being implemented by the Mopani District Municipality through the Department of Water and Sanitation Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG).

The fourth and last package is a newly added package into the scope of the project that consists of reticulating the potable water to the 55 villages that have been added into the network to increase the level of services from communal taps to yard connections.

Mchunu said the work package is also divided into two phases and is also being implemented by the Mopani District through the funding from the WSIG.

“Phase 1 of the package consists of reticulation to 24 of the 55 villages; 37 contractors have been appointed and are on site in various villages laying the reticulation pipes. The remaining 31 villages will be part of Phase 2, which will start in the new financial year (April 2024).

“All these work packages are on track, and we anticipate that they will be completed within the set timelines. We know that the people of Giyani have been patient and we continue to plead with them for their patience as we work towards providing them with sustainable, reliable and consistent water supply,” Mchunu said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 10:41

5 August 2023

Pandor sets sights on increased trade relations with Novel Zealand

Location: News

Pandor sets sights on increased trade relations with New Zealand

While bilateral economic and trade relations between South Africa and New Zealand continue to increase steadily, more still needs to be done to boost growth.

This is according to the International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who was delivering opening remarks during the bilateral meeting with her New Zealand counterpart, Nanaia Mahuta, in Cape Town.

According to the Minister, the total trade between the countries amounts to R3 billion, with exports to New Zealand at a total of R1 billion and imports from South Africa sitting at R2 billion.

South Africa, Pandor said, is currently New Zealand’s 35th export market and the 18th most important source of visitors.

“I’m sure that we can put shoulder to the wheel and work on improving these figures. We have the potential to trade more with each other,” she said on Friday.

New Zealand’s ties with South Africa range from trade and tourism, agriculture, disarmament, fisheries, environment, indigenous and human rights issues, as well as sports.

The Minister reminded delegates that the relations date back to the colonial era and recalled how during apartheid the island country led the way in isolating the regime.

“It’s something we never forget and continue to be grateful for. Who can forget how Labour Prime Minister, the inimitable David Lange in 1984, booted the last apartheid-era Consul General out of Wellington? We were proud to re-establish full diplomatic relations on 19 January 1994.”

She also spoke about how, in line with other Commonwealth countries, New Zealand lifted trade, investment and financial sanctions against apartheid following the inauguration of the first fully democratic South African government in 1994.

New Zealand subsequently established a High Commission in Pretoria in 1996.

“President Nelson Mandela visited your country in 1995 to acknowledge and thank New Zealand for its support during the apartheid regime.

“Your country had one of the strongest and staunchest anti-apartheid movements in the world and the sports boycott that you upheld struck a huge blow to the apartheid regime and helped to bring the world’s attention to our struggle,” Pandor said.

Meanwhile, the Minister said since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, the countries have concluded nine signed agreements.

“I am thrilled that we will be signing a Memorandum of Cooperation on Bilateral Cooperation, as this will be another testimony of our growing relations.”

South Africa and New Zealand, she said, work well together in a multilateral arena such as the United Nations (UN) and Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

They also share common views on international issues, such as the protection of the oceans and sustainable agricultural development, and are strong supporters of nuclear non-proliferation.

“We are also two of the five gateway countries to Antarctica. I would like to hear more about how your country unlocks the economic benefits this brings as I am told that Christchurch’s economy thrives as a result, and we would like the same for Cape Town.”

In 2019, Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, announced the changes in visa requirements enabling New Zealanders to enter South Africa for 90 days visa-free for tourism purposes.

Mahuta is expected to attend the Netball World Cup semi-final match in Cape Town on Saturday, 5 August 2023.

“I wish the Silver Ferns well, but not if they are playing against our Proteas,” the Minister quipped.

“I must say that I’m super proud of the way our Proteas played against your Silver Ferns, the reigning champs, and held them to a draw, what an electrifying game.”

Spar Proteas goal attacker, Nichole Taljaard, scored with seconds remaining to earn a 48 - 48 draw against the defending champions New Zealand at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Wednesday.

Pandor also congratulated New Zealand for the spectacular opening ceremony of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 10:53

5 August 2023

Leaders of African Peace Initiative makes pace

Location: News

Leaders of African Peace Initiative makes progress

The Leaders of the African Peace Initiative have recognised progress achieved since the proposals discussed with Russian President Vladimir Putin at their first meeting on 17 June 2023 in St. Petersburg.

The leaders made proposals on humanitarian issues, in particular, related to the rights of children in areas of armed activities and prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine, and agreed that humanitarian efforts would continue to bring further results.

The seven African leaders issued a joint Statement on Thursday following the engagement between them and the President of the Russian Federation on 28 July in St. Petersburg, in the Russian Federation.

At that engagement last week, the leaders continued their discussion on the African Peace Initiative, which they started on 17 June 2023.

“The Leaders recognised progress achieved since then on proposals they discussed at the first meeting on 17 June 2023 on humanitarian issues, in particular, related to the rights of children in areas of armed activities and prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine, and agreed that humanitarian efforts would continue to bring further results.

“The Leaders called for specific steps to remove obstacles to Russian grain and fertilizer exports, thus allowing the resumption of the full implementation of the Black Sea package initiative of the United Nations Secretary-General as endorsed on 22 July 2022 in Istanbul,” the statement read.

The leaders further called upon the United Nations to take necessary action in order to release 200 000 tons of Russian fertilizer blocked in European Union seaports for immediate and free delivery to African countries.

The leaders have agreed to continue their dialogue on the African Peace Initiative so that a door to peace can be opened.

African Leaders attending the meeting on 28 July 2023 were:

- President Azali Assoumani of the Comoros in his capacity as Chair of the African Union;
- President Cyril Ramaphosa of the Republic of South Africa;
- President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo;
- President Abdel Fattah-el Sisi of the Arab Republic of Egypt;
- President Macky Sall of the Republic of Senegal;
- President Yoweri Museveni of the Republic of Uganda;
- Foreign Minister of Zambia, Stanley Kakubo.

Advancing SA's international interests

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the 2nd Russia-Africa Summit Declaration that included cooperation in a number of strategic areas, including Science and Technology, Energy, Trade and Investments, and Defense and Security Cooperation.

This after he concluded a successful working visit to the Russian Federation where, together with Leaders of African countries, a clear call for tangible and mutually beneficial and effective cooperation between Russia and the countries of the African Continent was made, during the summit which took place in the country's cultural capital, St. Petersburg.

President Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of a monitoring and evaluation mechanism that will assess the level and pace of implementation of the Summit commitments.

He concluded his working visit to Russia with a meeting at the Konstantinovsky Palace where the two Presidents discussed South Africa and Russia’s bilateral relationship, which is built on strategic partnerships in several areas of cooperation, including energy, industry, and agriculture.

“The discussions further sought to strengthen the two countries’ cooperation in the areas of education, science and technology, with a particular focus on space and satellite technology development,” Magwenya said.

Telephone call with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Meanwhile on Wednesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa held a telephone discussion with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada.

The Prime Minister expressed his deep appreciation for the 600 South African firefighters that demonstrated excellence and diligence during their support in extinguishing the wild fires that ravaged parts of Canada.

“In turn, Prime Minister Trudeau offered Canada’s support in the event South Africa experiences any form of disaster in the near future.

“The Prime Minister also expressed his appreciation for South Africa’s contribution to the African Peace Initiative to Russia and Ukraine, and committed his support to search for a peaceful solution to the conflict.

Both leaders agreed to continue their bilateral cooperation and to further collaborate in 2025, when Canada hosts the G7 summit, while South Africa will be hosting the G20,” Magwenya said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 10:54

4 August 2023

E Cape Premier welcomes DDM Presidential Imbizo

Location: News

E Cape Premier welcomes DDM Presidential Imbizo

Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane has welcomed the ninth District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo to be held in Tsomo, Chris Hani District Municipality in the Eastern Cape.

Planned for Friday, 11 August, the engagement will see President Cyril Ramaphosa, together with Ministers, Members of the Executive Council (MECs), Executive Mayors, and councillors from various municipalities, coming together to engage, listen and provide responses in real time to issues affecting communities.

The Presidential Imbizo creates a platform for social partners, including government, traditional leaders, organs of civil society, labour, women, youth, persons with disabilities, business, and communities an opportunity to collectively engage in keeping with the DDM principle of an – All of Society and government approach, to enhance integrated service delivery and create jobs.

Mabuyane has called upon the people of Intsika Yethu Local Municipality to come out in their numbers to engage with the President and raise their concerns.

Mabuyane said the engagement of communities is a critical aspect of our democracy, as it ensures that the principals are inclusive and accessible to citizens.

“This is an opportunity for communities and citizens to add their voices and enrich the work of the President. Through this commitment and partnerships guided by the DDM, communities will surely see enhanced integrated service delivery,” Mabuyane said on Thursday.

The Premier said the provincial government will use the imbizo to continue advocating for the service delivery needs of the people. This includes the acceleration of the government’s response in areas that were affected by disasters, improvements on water reticulation projects, interventions on the management of crime, as well as the accelerated implementation of all the catalytic projects across the province.

“Engagements between the two spheres of government have yielded positive results with massive investment received to improve some of the provincial infrastructure, amongst others the resolution on the funding deadlock for the construction of the R8 billion Umzimvubu Dam and an additional R6.33 billion has been allocated to municipalities in the province through various water infrastructure grants.

“The Eastern Cape provincial government has since the launch of the DDM developed and submitted at least eight DDM One Plans designed to unlock massive growth and socio-economic development across the province,” Mabuyane said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 11:18

4 August 2023

SA urged to produce smart financial decisions

Location: News

SA urged to make smart financial decisions

South Africans have been encouraged to make smart financial decisions by saving for the future as a recent survey on financial behaviours of adults show a concerning pattern.

According to the recent Baseline survey on financial literacy in South Africa, only 46% adults tend to live for today rather worry about providing for their future while 44% stated that they have not been actively saving and a third of South Africans have no retirement plan.

“As the National Treasury, we are worried about the statistics for people who expect to rely on government pension because in the absence of growth, we do not want to end up with a society that relies on government handouts as opposed as to saving money for their own future,” Acting Tax and Financial Sector Policy Division Deputy Director-General, Mmakgoshi Lekhethe, said on Friday.

Lekhethe was addressing the virtual launch of Money Smart Week South Africa 2023 (MSWSA 2023) under the theme “Plan your money, plant your future.”

Money Smart Week is the country’s largest coordinated financial literacy campaign aimed at motivating and empowering South Africans to become better educated about their finances. This year’s campaigns runs from 28 August until 03 September 2023.

South Africa scored at around 51% of individuals that are financially literate in the survey, which was conducted by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in partnership with the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC).

The survey further indicates that only 26% have funds saved for rainy days but those will last for only three months.

“The financial decisions we make today will make a significant impact on our security and our standard of living given the current economic condition that people find themselves in and therefore saving and being money smart is a strong foundation towards securing your future,” Lekhethe said.

While she acknowledged that financial literacy might not address all of consumers’ vulnerability, Lekhethe said financial literacy could pave the way for positive actions, which are important for wealth creation and preservation.

These actions include saving for a rainy day and for long term goals such as retirement and making an informed decision about retirement.

“As government and regulators, we have to do our best in providing protection to consumers. An informed consumer can demonstrate improved capability in terms of making decisions about their financial future,” she said.

Lekhethe expressed concern about the emergence of fraudulent scams schemes that take advantage of people’s vulnerabilities.

The Baseline survey on financial literacy in South Africa examines the financial knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours of adult South Africans as part of ongoing efforts to better understand, monitor, and promote financial literacy in the country. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 12:03

4 August 2023

Phaahla calls on BRICS to not let guard down against COVID-19

Location: News

Phaahla calls on BRICS to not let guard down against COVID-19

While the world is no longer living in a COVID-19 pandemic crisis mode, Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, has warned BRICS leaders that they cannot afford to let their guard down.

“This virus will still unfortunately continue to cause havoc in our population and in our economy,” he cautioned on Friday.

“We just need to make sure that we are tracking the virus because it will continue to evolve and pose risk in our societies.”

However, he said he was hopeful that the leaders now have the tools and the political will in place to ensure that future waves do not result in more severe diseases and deaths.

Phaahla, together with Health Ministers from Brazil, Russia, India, and China were speaking at the adoption of the declaration of the 13th BRICS Health Ministers Meeting.

Today marked the last day of BRICS health events currently underway at the Durban International Convention Centre in the run-up to the 15th BRICS Summit in August 2023.

The 13th BRICS Health Ministers Meeting was taking place under the ‘Bridging the Gap on Sustainable Health on the Road to Universal Health Coverage 2023’ theme.

The Minister said the bloc partnership has a significant role to play in surveillance, preparedness, and developing health mechanisms to confront pandemics.

Universal health coverage (UHC)

He said over the last decade, the BRICS countries have committed to substantial health-system reforms designed to improve equity in service use, quality, and financial protection, with the ultimate goal of achieving UHC.

Last month, the National Assembly passed the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill paving the way for universal healthcare, bringing it a step closer to being signed into law and being rolled out.

“This is one of the most revolutionary bills ever passed by the National Assembly since the dawn of our democracy in 1994,” he told delegates.

UHC, he said is undoubtedly the cornerstone to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3, on good health and well-being.

“We have an opportunity to make our voices heard as BRICS countries building on our hard negotiated and agreed goals towards universal health agenda.”

He believes that the BRICS nations are a force to be reckoned with, as they carry a great number of the world's population of underprivileged societies.

“So we should leverage our involvement in the G20 to push the global health agenda and related areas for ensuring global health security.”

He also acknowledged that there is still a lot to be done to ensure access and equity to safe and essential medical products for people, especially in developing countries.

Vaccines
Phaahla also touched on the equitable distribution of vaccines and expeditious vaccination, to fill the immunisation gap globally.

“We should, therefore, remain focused on discussions on the importance of the World Trade Organisation on relevant intellectual property waiver proposals, as well as capacity building and strengthening local production of vaccines and other health tools, especially in developing countries,” he stressed, adding that mNRA hubs should be supported.

Phaahla said the leaders have also agreed that they should jointly take proactive and effective measures to prevent and reduce the risk of cross-border transmission of infectious diseases and contribute to improving global health.

Public health emergencies

This year, he said they also added a BRICS Network of Public Health Emergency Centres (PHEOC), serving as nerve centres for preparation and response to public health emergencies.

“This is especially critical as we reflect on the COVID-19 pandemic response and aim to build back better for future outbreaks and pandemics.

“The effective coordination and improved control of outbreaks as evidenced by shorter times from detection to response that a functional PHEOC is valuable in the prompt containment of infectious disease outbreaks in all countries.”

He said the medicines regulatory authorities were also ready to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation.

He said this was a significant step towards realising the objective to work together in the field of medical products regulation.

This, according to Phaahla, will also enable the nations to share regulatory experience and best practices.

It will also enable them to exchange experts for capacity building as well as facilitate the regulatory landscape to promote research and development and adaptation through technology transfer of innovative medical products.

These include drugs, vaccines, medical technologies, and anti-microbial resistance. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 12:19

4 August 2023

Mashatile calls for ‘unerring focus’ on improving lives of South Africans

Location: News

Mashatile calls for 'unerring focus' on improving lives of South Africans

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on political parties and civil society to craft a way forward for coalition governments that will improve the lives of South Africans.

The Deputy President was speaking at the National Dialogue on Coalition Governments held at the University of the Western Cape, in Cape Town, on Friday.

The two day dialogue seeks to lay a foundation for the creation of a National Framework guiding the effective management and navigation of coalition governments in South Africa.

“[Our] political focus must unerringly remain on the well-being of our people. Our pursuit of national consensus on how to approach coalition governments is a matter of national interest. Properly handled, it has the potential to bring the necessary stability, especially to the local government sphere, despite the intemperance we have witnessed in relation to coalitions.

“This dialogue therefore seeks to promote fidelity to the national interest so that we remain focused on the fulfilment of the constitutional injunction to build a united, democratic, non-racial, non-sexist, and prosperous society,” he said.

Currently, South Africa has at least 70 hung municipalities and this has paved the way for the formation of coalition governments in local municipalities.

Some of these coalitions, particularly those in metropolitan municipalities, have given rise to, amongst others, instability and frequent changes in council leadership structures – ultimately hampering service delivery to citizens.

Deputy President Mashatile told those at the dialogue that in this regard, citizens are demanding accountability from those elected to lead.

“Whatever the configuration of governance, the electorate and the people as a whole expect from those who govern nothing less than the material improvement of their lives, a better future for themselves and their children as well as guarantees for peace and security.

“Those who govern also owe accountability to the people at all times for without accountability, the process of governance is compromised. Additionally, where parties battle it out, like the feuding houses of Verona, other things also get lost: among them, improving the lives of the people is often compromised with negative impacts on the wellbeing of citizens,” he said.

Mashatile said although coalition governments face a raft of challenges, current leaders “may be the generation in our evolving democracy that co-creates and designs resilient solutions to our political architecture”.

“We can ignite the hopes of our people with the demonstration of united leadership, which communicates the message that we have gathered here today as a collective of South African stateswomen and statesmen and not as mere politicians representing their parties.

“This national dialogue will not stop after tomorrow; it is just the beginning. It is the launch of the dialogue that must spread across our nation as we collectively grapple with the most crucial question: what do we do going forward to serve the people even better?

“The motto of this eminent institution of higher learning is Respice Prospice: look back, look forward, and take what is worthy from the past, and build the future. As we grapple with these issues, may we embrace the apposite counsel of the motto of the University of the Western Cape so that we are able to meet the expectations of the people for the material improvement of their lives, and secure a better future for them and their children. So shall we be true to the national interest,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 12:52

4 August 2023

KZN legislature, six departments commended for receiving clean audits

Location: News

KZN legislature, six departments commended for receiving clean audits

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has commended the Provincial Legislature and six provincial departments for obtaining clean audits for the financial year 2022/23.

The Office of the Premier, Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Provincial Treasury, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Community Safety and Liaison, Agriculture and Rural Development, have all received unqualified audits with no findings.

“This deepens our resolve and commitment to good, clean, ethical and transparent governance while accelerating service delivery, addressing poverty, unemployment and inequality. We will work hard to ensure that every department in the province achieves a clean audit and work together with those that may have some challenges,” Nomusa-Dube said.

Premier not investigated by SIU

Meanwhile, the Office of the Premier said the Premier is not the subject of an investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), nor under investigation by any agency.

This follows the SIU announcement on Tuesday, that it would investigate allegations of maladministration in the affairs of the Office of the Premier in KwaZulu-Natal, after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a Proclamation authorising the unit to investigate allegations dating back to 2007.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Office of the Premier noted that a false narrative has been peddled by some mischievous members of the media, analysts and politicians, that the Premier is being probed for wrong-doing.

The provincial government warned that such a narrative is a colossal misrepresentation of facts, which has also been dispelled by the SIU in its announcement of the probe and subsequent media engagements.

“While the Proclamation clearly states that it covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that took place between 1 April 2007 and 29 July 2023, the investigation is not targeted at the Premier or Executive Authority, personally.

“Probes of this nature are information seeking based on reports of previous investigations. The SIU is at the beginning of its probe into the office and is not investigating the incumbent during the period of interest. We reject insinuations by members of the opposition that this is about Premier Dube-Ncube or any of her predecessors," the Office of the Premier said.

It added that it views any narrative or reporting that suggests otherwise, when the facts are clear, to be "mischievous and out of order".

“Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube welcomes any probe into any activity covering any period relating to the KwaZulu-Natal Office of the Premier. We wish to assure the people of KwaZulu-Natal that the Office will cooperate fully with the SIU and make sure that all relevant matters are finalised as soon as possible.

“The Premier and her administration will not be distracted from a singular focus and commitment of leading a transparent, ethical and accountable provincial government while accelerating service delivery to our people. This is clearly reflected the Office of the Premier and five other provincial departments, including the Provincial Legislature attaining clean audits for the 2022/23 financial year,” the Office of the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 13:49

4 August 2023

Nzimande calls on BRICS partners to invest in science, innovation

Location: News

Nzimande calls on BRICS partners to invest in science, innovation

Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, has called on his partners from BRICS to develop science and innovation capacities across Africa for the creation of a better future for all.

Nzimande was speaking on Friday at the 2023 BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India and China and South Africa) Ministerial Meeting on Science and Innovation in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.

He told his counterparts from Brazil, Russia, India and China that one of the strategic objectives of the annual ministerial meeting is to provide an opportunity for a high-level exchange on science, technology, and innovation policy.

The platform is to also share information on priority investment areas, as well as national progress in the implementation of BRICS partnership initiatives.

He told delegates that in 2022, the country witnessed a historic milestone in science policy development with the adoption of the Decadal Plan.

The Decadal Plan, approved by Cabinet, focuses on growing South Africa by finding sources of new economic growth for a re-industrialised and modern economy.

“Although prepared by my department, it is not only a plan for the Department of Science and Innovation, or for government alone, but for all of South Africa,” he said.

The plan also seeks to put science, technology, and innovation at the heart of South Africa’s growth and development agenda.

Meanwhile, the Innovation and Skills Compact will undertake amongst others a regulatory reform to create a more enabling policy environment for innovation in South Africa.

It will also forge a closer collaboration between higher education and training bodies, and employers, to ensure that skills development better corresponds to the needs of the economy.

“Our plan does not identify priorities [of] scientific disciplines or technology platforms in their own right, but instead focus on the collective and holistic response of South African science and innovation on key societal challenges confronting South Africa.

“This approach notably foresees a central role by the social sciences and humanities, which remains a priority investment area.”

He also touched on the strengthening BRICS collaboration, namely vaccine manufacturing, the hydrogen economy, and the marine sciences.

“The Decadal Plan proposes a new dedicated programme on innovation for a healthy South African population.

“This programme will focus on both physical and mental health; build on our existing successes in for example the fight against infectious diseases such as HIV-AIDS, while also reinforcing our pandemic preparedness.”

The Minister said developing South Africa’s vaccine manufacturing capabilities will be a priority investment area.

“Our objective is to develop a viable local vaccine manufacturing industry in South Africa, which will notably address African concerns regarding the security of supply.”

The plan will also zoom into energy security as a priority, which has led to the implementation of South Africa’s Hydrogen Society Roadmap.

The roadmap also seeks to exploit South Africa’s unique comparative advantage, the endowment of 75% of global platinum metals group reserves.

“We have made excellent progress in developing new hydrogen and fuel cell technologies and are keen to join forces with BRICS partners in this enterprise.

“Opportunities abound in areas such as the decarbonisation of transport and the production of green hydrogen, including as part of a dedicated Platinum Valley, spatial and economic development initiative.”

Nzimande said the country is also committed to the marine sciences and the development of a blue economy.

He explained that cooperation with partners in the Global South and strengthening multilateralism and solidarity through our BRICS science, technology, and innovation partnership is a priority of the highest order.

“I, therefore, have every confidence that our BRICS partners will join us in an effort, within the spirit of generosity President Mandela spoke about, to also develop science and innovation capacities across Africa. This will be a lasting contribution of our shared objective to creating a better future for all, ensuring no one is left behind.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 13:50

4 August 2023

Over 190 suspects arrested during police operations in Riverlea

Location: News

Over 190 suspects arrested during police operations in Riverlea

A total of 194 suspects have been arrested during intensified police operations in Riverlea and surrounding areas to arrest zama-zamas terrorising the communities.

The arrests follow the deployment of Crime Intelligence, Tactical Response Teams “Amaberethe”, National Intervention Unit (NIU) and the Special Task Force (STF) in and around the Riverlea area, including illegal mining hotspot areas in Gauteng.

Police Minister, General Bheki Cele returned to Riverlea in the West of Johannesburg on Friday, to update the community on the police's response to the illicit activities that have left some community members living in fear.

Joined by South African Police Service (SAPS) management from both national and the Gauteng province, Cele engaged the residents of Riverlea and surrounding in an effort to end illegal mining and to find lasting solutions to stabilise the area.

Addressing the community at Riverlea Recreation Centre, Cele said a team from the Minister and the Secretariat would be sent to the Langlaagte Police Station from Monday.

He said the team would report back by Thursday.

“The relationship between the community and the police station must be fixed so that we work together against criminality. We will bring a report back and see who is not doing his or her job, and take action against them,” Cele said.

Cele said the team will also probe allegations that SAPS are getting bribes, and called on the community to report and bring the evidence of the allegations.

“We want to change their blue uniforms for the orange uniforms,” he said.

The Minister also called on the community to stop supporting the criminals, adding that they know the zama-zamas, as they are their next door neighbours.– SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 15:12

4 August 2023

Transport Minister calls for resolution to Cape Town taxi strike

Location: News

Transport Minister calls for resolution to Cape Town taxi strike

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga says the Department of Transport expects to meet with both the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) and officials in the City of Cape Town following the taxi industry’s suspension of services in the city.

She was speaking on the sidelines of the National Dialogue on Coalition Governments held in Cape Town.

On Wednesday after the taxi council suspended operations, taxis blocked roads, including major highways, resulting in the burning of buses and intimidation of motorists.

The strike follows a standoff with the City of Cape Town on various issues, including the impounding of taxis and operating license applications.

Chikunga said the department is expecting to convene a meeting with all role players to find a solution to the impasse.

“We have requested the MEC for Transport [in the Western Cape] because we believe the Department of Transport should lead and not the police because this is a matter that requires the Department of Transport nationally and provincially, sitting together with the metro.

“Of course, also the taxi industry itself represented by SANTACO. We have invited the national leadership of SANTACO, also their provincial and local leadership so that we hear exactly what the issues are and find solutions to those problems,” Chikunga said.

The Minister called for taxi operators to reconsider the suspension of services, which has left thousands of commuters without transport.

“We are extremely concerned about what has happened. What we would like SANTACO to do is maybe call off the strike while we are trying to find a solution. The people who become victims are not the people that they are unhappy with, but it is the commuters.

“Of course we would want to protect the Netball World Cup. We have got other events that have to take place in Cape Town. [The taxi industry] plays a key role in the transportation of commuters and we would definitely try to persuade them to consider calling off the strike,” she said.

Chikunga condemned the violence that erupted allegedly at the hands of taxi drivers in the area but also called on city officials to mete out “equal treatment” to all motorists, including those in the transportation industry.

“We are not saying that law enforcement should not enforce the law and we are not saying that the taxi industry should not abide by the law… of the road because that actually leads to accidents.

“However, when that law is meted, it should not just target the taxi industry. We are opposed to that. We can’t have a by-law that is just for the taxi industry. If it is wrong to cross any barrier line, it should be wrong for the bus, the taxi and for everybody. It should not just focus on and target the taxi industry,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/04/2023 - 09:27