SA News

15 November 2024

Municipalities warned against water tanker mafias

Location: News

Municipalities warned against water tanker mafias

With maintenance of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) underway, the Department of Water and Sanitation has warned municipalities to be aware of the so-called “water tanker mafias” who deliberately sabotage water systems to attract business from municipalities.

The warning came during an inspection of the maintenance operation of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project tunnel in Clarens, in the Free State.

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seitlholo, said in any crisis, particularly when it relates to water, there are opportunists.

“I want to warn mayors very strongly …. I want us to guard against that. In situations like this, the water tanker mafia is going to come in steam rolling, because to them this is pay day,” Seitlholo warned.

Seitlholo led the led an inspection of the maintenance operation along with Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, on Friday.

The joint maintenance operation by Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) and the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) is currently underway, following the tunnel system closure on 1 October 2024.

The TCTA is undertaking the maintenance operation on Delivery Tunnel North within South Africa, and LHDA will focus on the transfer tunnels at the Muela hydro power station in Lesotho.

Seitlholo urged the municipalities to undertake the necessary community education on what was happening.

“We must constantly communicate with our communities, using social media so that people are aware of what is happening, particularly in around consumption of water,” the Deputy Minister said.

READ I Government commends progress made in Lesotho Highlands Water Project maintenance

Mahlobo reminded those who are providing water to communities with water tankers that the situation was temporary.

“It is not a permanent thing…. let them give water to our citizens [but] do not let them exploit our people. If they break the law and try to interfere with the municipal systems, by vandalising the valves, the long arm of the law will reach them,” Mahlobo warned.

Acting Free State Premier, Jabu Mbalula, said the province was happy with the progress of the project, saying it will go a long way towards assisting the people of the province.

Mbalula assured citizens that the provincial government, working together with national government, was attending to the challenge of water.

He said water leaks were one of the most critical issues facing the province. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 11/15/2024 - 17:00

110 views

15 November 2024

Government commends progress made in Lesotho Highlands Water Project maintenance

Location: News

Government commends progress made in Lesotho Highlands Water Project maintenance

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has commended the progress made in the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel maintenance operations, which started last month.

Mahlobo and Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo led an inspection of the maintenance operation at the Lesotho Highlands Water Project tunnel in Clarens, Free State, on Friday.

The TCTA is undertaking the maintenance operation on Delivery Tunnel North within South Africa, and LHDA will focus on the transfer tunnels at the Muela hydro power station in Lesotho.

Speaking at the inspection, Mahlobo commended the TCTA for the quality of the work delivered since the tunnel shutdown on 1 October 2024.

Mahlobo emphasised the ability of the two nations to cooperate and share the resources, noting that there are rivers that are flowing in between the neighbouring countries of South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia and Botswana.

“This trans-boundary cooperation is one of the things that we need to promote because in other parts of the world, there’s conflict around the issue of sharing water,” Mahlobo said.

Mahlobo highlighted the other advantages, which benefit both South Africa and Lesotho.

“In Lesotho, they have a hydro power station to power the system. It’s clean energy… At the very same time, this side, we are able to supply [water] for domestic use and other economic uses, whether it is agriculture industries, powering a number of communities and provinces (sic).

“The water… touches more than 13 million beneficiaries because it touches the province of Free State, Northern Cape, North West, Gauteng, and it also touches Mpumalanga. That is the scale of it and it is massive,” Mahlobo said.

The Deputy Minister said the Lesotho Highlands Water Project was completed by the democratic government, as it was commissioned in 1998.

South Africa’s richness in engineering

Mahlobo said South Africa is rich with skilled people in engineering, science and technology.

“[The LHWP] is a very sophisticated and complex system, where you have to go through the mountains, and you can see very serious engineering just to put [up] infrastructure of this nature. You can see the technology that is used…

“There is a need for continuous maintenance when you have assets. Therefore, investing in an asset gives you a longer life span and this one is going to extend the life span for the additional 20 years,” Mahlobo said.

The Deputy Minister called for reduced water losses, reiterating that every drop of water counts.

Support for municipalities

Mahlobo reiterated government’s support for all the municipalities that are directly or indirectly affected by the LHWP system.

“We are satisfied that the system will be managed, [but we acknowledge] it will remain vulnerable because it is a life system. It must be monitored from time to time, [hence] the weekly meetings happening every Wednesday to oversee the work. We want to encourage the workers to continue to do a good job and we are very proud of the work they do.

“Our call for citizens to use water sparingly still remains. In as much as water will continue to be available, it must be used sparingly,” Mahlobo said.

The LHWP maintenance is expected to be completed on 31 March 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 11/15/2024 - 14:59

60 views

15 November 2024

Call to voluntarily exit captive lion industry

Location: News

Call to voluntarily exit captive lion industry

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called on individuals in the captive lion industry to voluntarily consider giving up their stockpiles of lion bones and derivatives.

South Africa has the world's largest captive lion population of around 8 000 and the captive lion industry faces escalating ethical, regulatory, conservation and economic hurdles.

The industry also faces misalignment with global conservation trends and persistent animal welfare and other issues. The industry's deficiency in social license and departure from international norms present formidable problems to its sustainability.

“In developing the voluntary exit options and pathways, several key guiding principles were considered including the imperative of preventing unemployment for vulnerable individuals and underlying pillars of sustainable use. I encourage everyone who has lion bones and derivatives to voluntarily surrender them as early as possible,” the Minister said on Friday.

In December 2022, the then-Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, appointed a Ministerial Task Team to identify and recommend voluntary exit and pathways from the captive lion industry.

Recommendations, dated 15 February 2024, were submitted to the Minister and the report was released.

The Minister re-appointed some of the Ministerial Task Team members, to facilitate the implementation of the outcomes of the report.

The Terms of Reference were published under Government Notice No 4765, Government Gazette No. 50574 of 26 April 2024.

George has encouraged those that wish to consider the voluntary exit options involving lion bones and derivatives to register their interest by submitting their details to the department.

All information provided is treated confidentially and registration does not constitute any obligation to proceed with voluntary exit options.

A detailed implementation process plan of surrendering lion stockpiles and derivatives will be communicated and shared in the public domain, once approved by the Minister and the registration process is concluded.

Interested persons are invited to respond to the notice within 120 days from the date of publication in the Government Gazette which can be accessed at
https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/nema_lionbonestockpilesurrender_g51551gn5539.pdf.

Registration details to exit from the captive lion industry can be access at https://forms.gle/KiDqv8sru8pXLwhd7.

Download the form on the departmental website at www.dffe.gov.za and once completed post/hand deliver/ email it as follow:

By post to:    Director-General: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
Attention:     Ms Ofentse Mashiyane (Secretariat of the Ministerial Task Team)
Private Bag X447
PRETORIA
0001
By hand at:  Reception, Environment House, 473 Steve Biko Road, Arcadia, Pretoria, 0083
By email: lionstockpile@dffe.gov.za.

Any inquiries in connection with this Notice can be directed to omashiyane@dffe.gov.za and lionstockpile@dffe.gov.za. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 11/15/2024 - 13:09

98 views

15 November 2024

Do your part to fight gender-based violence

Location: News

Do your part to fight gender-based violence

The National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Shamila Batohi, has called on communities to work with law enforcement agencies to fight gender-based violence (GBV).

The NDPP was speaking during the re-launch of the Kabokweni Themba Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC) at the Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga.

TCCs are a one stop-facility for survivors of GBV, where they are able to receive psycho-social support, medical treatment and legal services.

“You have to be part of the crime solution. We will never be able to prosecute ourselves out of crime.

“We do what we have to do and we will do it with absolute determination and passion but we come after the fact when the crime is already committed. You in the community, working with the police, have to be part of [the solution],” Batohi said.

The TCC was initially launched in 2008 but has now found a permanent home within the hospital’s structure. It services communities including Kabokweni and White River.

Addressing men in society in particular, Batohi urged them to stand up to those in their circles who perpetrate GBV.

“Men must be out there publicly… to raise awareness and say as men, 'no women must be [abused]. As men, we will not tolerate [that] and... we will ostracise them from our groups because there is no place for abusers in our midst.

“That’s the only way we can move, otherwise we will be sitting in these places, building Thuthuzela Care Centres and we will never solve the problem,” Batohi said.

The NDPP told the gathering that the TTCs are aimed at making sure that there is justice for victims and survivors of GBV.

“We want to make sure that we get better conviction rates. We want to make sure that we get less secondary trauma, and this must move to the courts as well. And we’re hoping that with our partners… that maybe the TCCs can be used [for] children and victims [to] actually testify from here to the courts. Our Department of Justice will be a key partner in that.

“We have to have targeted interventions that make sure that our women and children are not violated in this way and our girls are not subjected to abuse. This is an incredible [opportunity] to show from the reactive side, that this is what we’re trying to do, to make this journey of victim to survivor something that is more comfortable,” Batohi explained. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 11/15/2024 - 11:51

41 views

15 November 2024

Businessman Hamilton Ndlovu found in contempt of Special Tribunal forfeiture order

Location: News

Businessman Hamilton Ndlovu found in contempt of Special Tribunal forfeiture order

Controversial businessman Hamilton Ndlovu has been ordered by the Special Tribunal to 30 days imprisonment with the order suspended for 30 days.

Ndlovu scored personal protective equipment (PPE) tenders worth at least R170 million during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His legal troubles began when the Special Investigating Unit launched an investigation into allegations of corruption and the circumstances in which eight companies, directly and indirectly linked to Ndlovu, obtained contracts worth a total of R172 million for the procurement of PPE from the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS).

The businessman was eventually hauled to the Special Tribunal by the corruption busting unit and ordered by the tribunal to pay back some R158 million in monies gained from the tenders.

Now, SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago says Ndlovu was found to have been in contempt of a forfeiture order handed down by the Tribunal two years ago.

“The order comes after the Tribunal found Ndlovu in contempt of the Tribunal’s forfeiture order issued on 7 June 2022, following the review proceedings related to the unlawful procurement of personal protective equipment initiated by the National Health Laboratory Service and the Special Investigating Unit.

“The imprisonment is suspended for 30 days to allow Ndlovu to comply with the Tribunal orders. Furthermore, a fine of R500 000 has also been imposed on Ndlovu, wholly suspended for one year on the condition that he is not found guilty again of contempt of the Special Tribunal orders during the period of suspension,” Kganyago said.

The items Ndlovu was ordered to surrender include:

Scania trucks
Mercedes Benz G63 AMG
2020 Cartier gentlemen’s wristwatch with black leather bracelet
2020 Rolex Oyster perpetual white Roman numerals gentleman’s wristwatch with gold and silver bracelet Model 126233

The spokesperson said Ndlovu had “initially…cooperated but his failure to fulfil his obligations demonstrated wilful non-compliance and deception”.

“Furthermore, Ndlovu’s entities Akanni Trading and Projects (Pty) Ltd and Zaisan Kaihatsu (Pty) Ltd applied to overturn the forfeiture order, and the application was dismissed with costs due to lack of valid defence and failure to prove that their defaults were not wilful.

“This ruling follows a series of civil litigation initiated by the SIU and the NHLS to recover assets acquired from the unlawful procurement of PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 15:09

180 views

15 November 2024

Deputy Ministers to inspect Lesotho Highlands Water Project

Location: News

Deputy Ministers to inspect Lesotho Highlands Water Project

Water and Sanitation Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Sello Seitlholo, together with Deputy Minister of Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation, Seiso Mohai, will today lead an inspection of the maintenance operation of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel in Clarens, Free State.

A joint maintenance operation by Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) and the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) is currently underway, following a tunnel system closure on 1 October 2024.

TCTA is undertaking the maintenance operation on Delivery Tunnel North within South Africa, and LHDA will focus on the transfer tunnels at the Muela Hydro power station in Lesotho.

“Following a de-watering process of the tunnel, technical inspections have been conducted and the repair work inside the tunnel resumed and will take place until 28 February 2025. The tunnel will remain closed for six months and will be operational again next year in March,” the Department of Water and Sanitation said ahead of Friday’s tour.

READ | Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel undergoes maintenance

During the inspection of the maintenance tunnel, the Deputy Ministers will take members of the media to different sites of the tunnel, including Little Caledon Tunnel and Ash River Outfall.

The Deputy Ministers will be accompanied by the Executive Mayors of theThabo Mofutsanyana and Fezile Dabi District Municipalities, and Setsoto, Mafube, Mantsopa and Nketoane Local Municipalities.

Klipdrift Package Plant

Meanwhile, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure access to safe drinking water and uninterrupted water supply to the people of Hammanskraal, in Gauteng, DWS Minister, Pemmy Majodina, will on Saturday unveil phase 1 of the Klipdrift Package Plant.

READ | Cabinet updated on SA’s water challenges

The launch follows the Ministerial visit that took place in August, where the Ministry of Water and Sanitation received an update report on the work done on the Klipdrift potable Water Treatment Works Project.

READ | Thumbs up for Hammanskraal and Vereeniging water projects

Ministerial Spokesperson, Cornelius Monama highlighted that in order to improve water provision to residents of Hammanskraal, the department last year allocated R758 million for the upgrading of the 40 megalitres (ml/d) per day Klipdrift Water Treatment Plant to provide additional water into the existing bulk water infrastructure.

Monama said the additional 50 ml/d will bring the total capacity to 92 ml/d after completion.

He acknowledged that the Hammanskraal community has experienced continuous water supply challenges which necessitated intervention by the DWS.

Monama explained that the potable water treatment plant is being implemented in four phases, and the current completed phase will bring in 12.5 megalitres of potable water into the bulk supply scheme.

“The first package plant will supply water to parts of Mandela Village, Marokolong, Ramotse, Kekana Gardens, Kudube Unit 9 and Babelegi Industrial and Bridgeview informal settlement. The next phases of the project will continue into 2025,” Monama said.

The Minister, accompanied by Deputy Ministers, Mahlobo and Seitlholo, will unveil the first package plant at Klipdrift Package Plant in Mandela Village, Hammankraal, north of Pretoria. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 11/15/2024 - 06:26

184 views

15 November 2024

Government to host Construction Summit

Location: News

Government to host Construction Summit

Concerns around the so-called construction mafia, security and other criminal activity at construction sites, as well as the promotion of practical solutions for building crime-free environments within the construction industry, will come under the spotlight at the Construction Summit on Crime-Free Construction Sites next week.

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Construction Industry Development Board (cidb), will host the summit at the Durban International Convention Centre in KwaZulu-Natal.

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, has expressed his strong commitment to addressing crime at construction sites across the country.

“This is a fulfilment of a promise I made shortly after taking office to host a summit to deal with construction site stoppages nationwide.

“Construction sites should be places where workers build not just structures, but also a sense of safety, respect and trust. Unfortunately, crime has been a persistent challenge in the sector, undermining productivity, escalating costs and putting lives at risk,” Macpherson said.

The Minister committed to working with industry stakeholders to find solutions for safer work environments and underscored the government's dedication to eliminating crime, ensuring that workers return home safely each day.

The SAPS will also play a key part in the stakeholder engagement as law enforcement plays a critical role in maintaining security. Accordingly, Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, is expected to address the summit to reinforce the role of the police in combatting crime in the sector.

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is also expected to speak at Tuesday’s summit.Other Speakers will include the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal and the Mayor of eThekwini.

The cidb, a key partner in ensuring the professionalism and development of the construction industry, is equally dedicated to creating a conducive environment for effective delivery of infrastructure.

Bongani Dladla, CEO of the cidb, highlighted the importance of industry-wide collaboration in promoting security and efficiency in construction.

"We’re looking forward to playing an active role in this summit as we strongly believe that the construction industry is vital to our nation's growth, and addressing crime is essential to protecting both assets and the lives of those who build our future. The cidb is committed to supporting initiatives like the National Construction Summit to set new safety standards and collaborate with the DPWI, law enforcement, and industry partners to make construction sites safer and more efficient,” said Dladla.

The summit will feature a series of expert-led discussions on legislation and policy, security and law enforcement, community engagement, empowerment, skills development and other strategic topics to equip stakeholders with the tools needed to combat crime on construction sites.

It will also provide an opportunity for networking and forging partnerships aimed at improving site security and promoting the safety of workers. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 11/15/2024 - 09:00

124 views

14 November 2024

Police urge illegal miners still underground to resurface

Location: News

Police urge illegal miners still underground to resurface

The South African Police Service's (SAPS) Operation Vala Umgodi task team in the North West province has reiterated the call to those illegal miners who are still underground in the Stilfontein area, to return to the surface.

In line with safeguarding lives, the SAPS and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have allowed for water and food to be delivered to those underground so that they can safely resurface.

The police and other safety officials will remain in place in the North West until all illegal miners resurface and are arrested.

The SAPS, in a statement, called on the illegal miners to resurface so that they can get relevant help or aid, including any medical attention that may be required.

“We appeal to the community in the area to allow the police space to do their job. The SAPS will not allow criminality to thrive,” the police said.

To date, more than 1000 individuals have resurfaced from the illegal mining activities and officials said efforts are ongoing to ensure that those who remain underground resurface.

“Today, only three illegal miners have resurfaced. The SAPS will continue to stamp the authority of the state without fear or favour,” the police said.

This week, Cabinet commended the police on work done to clamp down on illegal mining in the North West. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 14:24

190 views

14 November 2024

Support for manufacturing remains a priority for government

Location: News

Support for manufacturing remains a priority for government

Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Andrew Whitfield says supporting the manufacturing sector in South Africa remains a key priority for government, as this will lead to more sustainable growth and job creation.

Whitfield was speaking during a site visit to the Usabco Addis manufacturing plant in Cape Town, Western Cape.

According to Whitfield, supporting the manufacturing sector and developing policies that are competitively driven will contribute immensely and respond to some of the issues that the sector is currently facing.

“As the world changes, South Africa is well positioned globally to look at innovative ways to develop and grow the sector. Research, innovation, localisation, the green economy and trade agreements are some of the tools and factors that can be used to position the sector as the leader on the continent,” said Whitfield.

Whitfield commended Usabco Addis for its contribution to the circular economy. This as 40% of the company’s products are produced from recycled plastics and he encouraged the company to find ways to increase its recycled inputs further.

The company currently employs over 800 people, and the Minister was impressed by its efforts to increase its local market share and the creation of even more jobs.

Whitfield also pointed out that the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) funding agencies, such as the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) can be engaged to fund some of the projects that can assist the sector.

“Government does not underestimate nor take for granted the contribution and the investment that the sector has made over the years. It is for us as the department to be in a well-informed position to come with policies that will sustain the sector going forward.

“Ultimately, our job in government is to make it easier for businesses to grow and create jobs, and for our people to get those jobs and keep those jobs.”

Whitfield added that Africa was seen as the next frontier in the manufacturing sector with the African Continental Free Trade Area’s (AfCFTA) drive to boost intra-Africa trade, encourage investment, and stimulate economic growth.

He said that this was an opportunity the country must take full advantage of, as the continent moves in the right direction to curb red tape and drive trade with each other.

“The dtic’s urgent priority over the next five years is to create rapid, inclusive, sustainable growth and job creation through manufacturing, services, investments and export lead growth,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 15:08

116 views

14 November 2024

R7.6 billion loan to implement Just Energy Transition concluded

Location: News

R7.6 billion loan to implement Just Energy Transition concluded

South Africa’s efforts to shift towards a low emissions economy have been strengthened by the conclusion of the negotiations for a R7.6 billion loan for the implementation of the country’s Just Energy Transition Plan (JETP) by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD).

This innovative policy-based financing, the largest ever on AFD's balance sheet, was developed in close collaboration with the JET Programme Management Unit (JET-PMU) in the Presidency and National Treasury to support the just dimensions of the Just Energy Transition (JET), maximising the social outcomes of the energy transition for local communities.

This loan builds on the €300 million public policy loan provided in 2022, bringing France’s total contribution to the JETP to €700 million out of the €1 billion pledged at COP26 ( United Nations Climate Change Conference) in Glasgow.

“The partnership with the AFD presents an opportunity for South Africa to make progress in addressing practical issues of jobs, skills, social support, and governance.

“National Treasury will continue working through the intergovernmental system to integrate JET into our fiscal policy choices. To succeed, coordination across all spheres of government is therefore critical,” National Treasury’s Head of Asset and Liability Management Mmakgoshi Lekhethe said on Thursday.

South Africa’s Just Energy Transition programme is designed to ensure that the livelihoods of communities that are tied to carbon-intensive energy sources, such as coal, are not left behind in the transition to a low-emission economy, and that the energy transition is fair.

A well-managed JET can be a strong driver for new jobs, social justice and poverty reduction as it emphasises the importance of embedding just transition outcomes in policy conditions.

“AFD’s JET public policy loan focuses on social equity and specifically targets support for the social dimensions of the transition, which includes job creation, poverty reduction, social justice and equitable access to electricity supply.

“In addition, the AFD Group is instrumental in providing technical cooperation and capacity building to South African institutions related to JET.

“The loan is linked to a set of policy reforms aimed at ensuring a just transition and AFD is putting a robust monitoring and evaluation framework in place to track the progress of these reforms,” a joint statement by the National Treasury and AFD Groupe said.

South Africa’s JET is supported by a strong governance and institutional framework that includes the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC), a dedicated JET-PMU, a comprehensive investment plan, underpinned by support from international partnerships with France and several other countries.

AFD’s Regional Director for Southern Africa and Country Director for South Africa Audrey Rojkoff said the AFD is working together with JET partners to strike a balance between South Africa’s energy needs and its climate commitments.

“Importantly, we are engaged in addressing the complexity around ensuring that the transition benefits all segments of society with careful planning and implementation. With high levels of commitment, we anticipate positive outcomes throughout the transitioning process,” the statement said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 15:21

47 views

14 November 2024

Social Development announces de-registration of non-compliant NPOs

Location: News

Social Development announces de-registration of non-compliant NPOs

With the deadline to submit progress to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on the status of South Africa’s grey listing, the Department of Social Development has announced the commencement of the de-registration of non-compliant non-profit organisations (NPOs) in a phased approach.

The department revealed this to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Social Development.

The FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 plenary meeting held in Paris.

The FATF is the international standard-setting body that oversees global compliance with anti-money laundering rules.
It developed an Action Plan with 22 Action items linked to the eight strategic deficiencies identified in the country’s anti-money laundering and combating of financial terrorism regime.

The department noted that South Africa has made progress in five action items and has 17 outstanding items to which it must report progress by 2026.

“South Africa is required to address all 22 items in order to exit the grey-listing status. One of the action items relates to the risk of terror financing and money laundering by NPOs.

“FATF identified that NPOs can be used for terror financing and money laundering and recommended that South Africa develops an NPO Terror Funding Risk Assessment,” the department said in a statement on Thursday.

This assessment titled: “The Information on the South African Terrorist Financing Risk Assessment for the Non-Profit Organisations” found that there is a medium exposure to terror financing by the NPO sector in South Africa.

The risk assessment also identified some threats that NPOs can be exposed to relating to terror financing, such as:

•    NPOs raising funds or other support for foreign terrorist groups
•    NPOs facilitating foreign travel for terrorist causes, amongst others, and
•    NPOs using the Internet and online media for fundraising, recruitment and propaganda

“The Department of Social Developing together with SARS [South African Revenue Service] and the FIC [Financial Intelligence Centre], are developing monitoring mechanisms to mitigate this risk.

“There are high, medium and low risk categories. The department has commenced with the deregistering non-complaint NPOs that do not fall in the high- risk category of NPOs as one of the mitigating monitoring mechanisms.

“Closer supervision and monitoring has been instituted by the department for NPOs identified to be at high risk of terror financing,” the department said.

As of October 2024, the department had 295 052 registered NPO and 167 103 of non-compliant NPOs.

Adequate standards of governance

The Department of Social Development through the Non-profit Organisations Act, 71 of 1997, as amended by General Laws Amendment Act (GLAA) provides for the registration of three types of NPOs, namely, Trust, non-profit company (NPC) and voluntary associations.

“Non-profit organisations play a crucial role in societal development and community welfare. However, some organisations fail to comply with regulatory frameworks, risking public trust and the integrity of the sector,” the department said.

The department said it has the responsibility to encourage NPOs to maintain adequate standards of governance, transparency, and accountability and to improve those standards.

The department explained that the need to deregister non-compliant NPOs is required by the need for the department to comply with the provisions of the NPO Act.

The FATF in the Mutual Evaluation Study indicated the need to implement the law in the form of the NPO Act as amended by the GLAA legislation.

“The risk of not deregistering/cancelling noncompliant NPOs is the likelihood of those NPOs being used by criminals for money laundering and terrorist financing.

Processes

“The department has a responsibility that NPOs that are not complying with provisions of the NPO Act are removed from the NPO Register as required in terms of section 21 (1) of the NPO Act deregistration or cancellation of NPOs is primarily about NPOs that fail to submit annual reports as required in terms of section 18 (1) of the NPO Act,” the department said.

Other instances that might lead to cancellation of registration status is when an organisation does not comply with the provisions of its own founding document. The department said the objective of the deregistration/cancellation is to identify NPOs that have failed to submit annual reports.

The department issues them with notices of compliance and subsequently remove them from the NPO register kept in terms of section 24 of the NPO Act.

The department will also provide deregistered/cancelled NPOs with an opportunity to appeal against the decision to remove them from the NPO Register.

The department will further raise its awareness program on the intention to deregister NPOs.

Steps taken:

•    The process for deregistration/cancellation will start with the verification of compliance status.
•    Once an organisation is found to be owing annual reports, it would be issued with a notice of compliance that would explain the annual reports that the organisation failed to submit.
•    The organisation will be given 30 days to submit outstanding annual reports.
•    Once an organisation fails to submit the required reports or fail to respond timeously to the issued noticed it would be cancelled or removed from the NPO Register.
•    Deregistered/cancelled organisations will be afforded an opportunity to appeal against the decision of the Director to cancel the organisation’s registration status.
•    The organisation would be required to submit a notice of appeal together with supporting documents.
•    The notice of appeal together with relevant documents will be sent to the chairperson of the panel of arbitrators for distribution to the appointed arbitration tribunal for the adjudication of the appeal.
•    The arbitration tribunal works independently and is appointed by the Minister in terms of section 9 (1) of the NPO Act.
•     A lodged appeal must be considered with 3 months of receipt of the appeal.
•    An appeal can either be denied or upheld. Once an appeal is upheld the department must reinstate the appellant and the organisation should be considered never to have been deregistered.

The department said that a denied appeal may take the matter on review with a competent court of law.

“The deregistration of non-compliant non-profit organizations is essential for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the nonprofit sector.

“By implementing a structured process, we can ensure that only organisations that meet compliance standards continue to operate, thereby protecting the interests of beneficiaries and the public at large,” the department said.

The department will deregister organisations according to the different financial years and it will be over a period of six to 12 months.

This is done with an intention not to cause alarm to the sector and give other NPOs time to respond to the call to submit annual reports.

The department said it will continue to support NPOs by creating an enabling environment for them to operate effectively and efficiently. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 10:58

162 views

14 November 2024

SA condemns Israeli government’s annexation orders for the West Bank

Location: News

SA condemns Israeli government’s annexation orders for the West Bank

South Africa has expressed dismay at a statement attributed to Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who called for the annexation of the West Bank on Monday.

Reports indicate that Smotrich has initiated preparations for the annexation of the occupied West Bank, anticipating the inauguration of United States President-elect Donald Trump in January 2025.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation said the development was compounded by a decision adopted by the Israeli Cabinet on 18 June 2024, which gave Smotrich approval to plan construction in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OTP).

“It should be recalled that soon after his appointment to his current position, Mr Smotrich moved quickly to approve thousands of new settlement homes and legalised previously unauthorised settlements, which practically made it more difficult for Palestinians to build homes and move around.”

The department believes that the Israeli government has long sought to find ways to permanently seize or annex the occupied West Bank.

“South Africa calls on the international community to unequivocally oppose the Israeli government’s continued violation of its obligations under international law and resolutions relating to its belligerent occupation.

“The Israeli government’s provocative policies and actions are extreme and warrant a decisive response by the international community. South Africa is opposed to the Israeli illegal annexation and settlement expansion on Palestinian lands.”

South Africa, said the department, believes these developments go further than just a de facto annexation of the OPTs and entrenching illegal Israel’s presence in the OPT, particularly in the West Bank.

“This latest move illustrates the lack of any meaningful effort directed at achieving peace or any hope for a two-state solution,” the statement read.

On 23 December 2016, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) adopted Resolution 2334, which condemned Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories and called for an end to settlement construction

In addition, South Africa further calls for concrete actions aimed at reviving a political process, leading to the establishment of a viable Palestinian State, in compliance with all relevant UN resolutions, International Law and international agreements. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 11:04

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14 November 2024

Mashatile to address Knysna Regional 2024 Investment Conference

Location: News

Mashatile to address Knysna Regional 2024 Investment Conference

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to attend and deliver the keynote address at the Knysna Regional 2024 Investment Conference in the Western Cape on Friday.

The Knysna Regional 2024 Investment Conference is organised through a partnership between government, the private sector as well as civil society.

The theme of this year’s gathering is “Investments through Skills and Capacity building in the broader region”.

The initiative, led by partners that include the Greater Knysna Business Chamber, the Garden Route District Municipality, the Yona Yethu initiative, and the Knysna Local Municipality, is aimed at promoting Knysna as an attractive investment destination in the Western Cape and South Africa.

According to the Presidency, the conference will be attended by delegates from various industries in tourism, telecommunication, logistics, finance, and the food and beverage sectors.

The gathering will zoom into the Economic Development and Opportunities for Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), which the Presidency said is a critical force in addressing economic challenges such as poverty and unemployment.
The attendees will talk about investment promotion aimed at attracting both domestic and foreign direct investment vital for stimulating the local economy, and skills development and training.

They will also touch on meaningful networking and collaboration opportunities to support SMME growth and investment initiatives. The gathering will also highlight investment in key economic sectors promoting sustainable development and addressing critical economic drivers.

“Government continues to champion partnership with the private sector, labour and civil society in tackling some of the most immediate challenges facing the South African economy,” the statement read.

Deputy President Mashatile will, amongst other government-led investment drives, update the conference on Operation Vulindlela, a joint initiative led by the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support for economic recovery.

Through this initiative, the Presidency stated that government aims to modernise and transform network and infrastructure industries, including electricity, water, transport and digital communications to improve the living conditions of the people.

Deputy President Mashatile will be accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, Deputy Minister of Finance Ashor Sarupen and the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Narend Singh.

In attendance will also be the Garden Route District Municipality Executive Mayor Andrew Stroebel and Knysna Local Municipality Executive Mayor Aubrey Ndoda Tsengwa. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 13:07

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14 November 2024

Gauteng police confiscate illicit goods worth over R1m

Location: News

Gauteng police confiscate illicit goods worth over R1m

Gauteng Police have conducted a counterfeit goods operation, where they seized 869 illicit and counterfeit goods worth R1 795 000.

On Wednesday, the Gauteng Visible Policing Team that deals with counterfeit and illicit goods, together with brand protectors, conducted an operation in Randburg in the Johannesburg District.

Three suspects were arrested for dealing with counterfeit and illicit goods. The police seized a total of 896 illicit and counterfeit goods, including illicit clothing, shoes, watches and cellphone accessories valued at R1 795 000.

The arrested suspects will appear before the Magistrate’s Court soon.

According to the police, the operation demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding the community from counterfeit goods and protecting consumers from substandard products.

Communities are urged to report any suspicious activities or dealing in counterfeit goods. Please contact the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS App for anonymous tip-offs. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 08:50

173 views

14 November 2024

Top SAFA boss appears in court

Location: News

Top SAFA boss appears in court

President of the South African Football Association (SAFA), Danny Jordaan, together with two co-accused, have been granted bail after appearing in the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crime Court on allegations of fraud of over R1.1 million.

Jordaan, together with former SAFA Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Gronie Hluyo, and former journalist and director of Grit Communications Trevor Neethling appeared in the court on Wednesday.

“They were all charged with three counts of fraud, three counts of theft, and conspiracy to commit fraud and theft.
“The allegations stem from a 12-month Service Level Agreement [SLA] allegedly entered by SAFA, represented by Jordaan, and Grit Communications in December 2017, for the provision of public relations and communication services to SAFA,” National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said.

She explained that the state alleges that Jordaan “in contravention of the SAFA statutes, signed the SLA that was neither sanctioned nor approved by SAFA, and that he and Neethling backdated the agreement to 01 October 2017”.

Grit Communications is alleged to have been employed to protect Jordaan’s personal image after allegations of rape surfaced against him in 2017.

“Furthermore, that he allegedly acquired protection services worth over R40 000 purported to be for SAFA from Badger Security, during the SAFA 2018 elective congress, whilst these protection services were allegedly exclusively rendered to him.

“According to SAFA statutes, Jordaan was precluded from doing so, as only the CFO and Chief Executive Officer of SAFA were authorised to sign contractual agreements. The PR services were already rendered to SAFA by its existing department that handled PR and communication.

“Despite full knowledge of the unauthorised and unlawful nature of the actions of both Jordaan and Neethling, it is alleged that Hluyo approved the payments to Grit Communications and Badger Security,” she said.

The three were granted bail of some R20 000 each and are expected back in court on 05 December 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 09:36

125 views

14 November 2024

Former Apartheid police officer convicted for the murder of Caiphus Nyoka

Location: News

Former Apartheid police officer convicted for the murder of Caiphus Nyoka

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured a conviction related to a matter of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

This after the Pretoria High Court found former Apartheid police officer Johan Marais guilty of the murder of student activist Caiphus Nyoka.

Marais had pleaded guilty to the murder.

“After the guilty plea was read into the record, Marais was released on R5000 bail, with conditions that he should not interfere with state witnesses and that he should not communicate with the other three co-accused.

“He was also ordered not to leave the jurisdiction of Springs without informing the investigating officer, and he should hand in his passport to the investigating officer and not apply for a new one.

“The matter was postponed to 27 January 2025 for a psychological report. The trial against the three other accused in the matter will start at the Pretoria High Court sitting in Benoni on 18 November until 06 December 2024,” the NPA said in a statement.

Nyoka was killed for his activism against Apartheid policies in 1987.

At the time, the student activist was a member of the Congress of South African Students, the South African Youth Congress Organiser (SAYCO) of the Transvaal Student Congress in the East Rand, as well as the President of the Student Representative Council (SRC), at Mabuya High School.

“In the evening of 23 August 1987, Marais and some of the members of the security branch and other units within the South African Police met to discuss a plan to kill Nyoka. A plan to raid his home was devised, under the then commanding officer Major Leon Louis van den Berg, who is also charged separately.

“In the early hours of 24 August 1987, at about 02h30, Marais, together with Sergeant Pieter Stander, Sergeant Abram Hercules Engelbrecht and other members of the Reaction Unit who are also charged separately, arrived at Nyoka’s homestead and stormed Nyoka's room.

“They found him with three of his friends sleeping. After identifying him, they removed the friends from the room and thereafter proceeded to shoot him nine times. He died on the scene as a result of multiple gunshot wounds,” the NPA explained.

The prosecutorial body described Marais’ conviction as impactful.

“The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes this conviction, which reflects the commitment to ensuring accountability for atrocious crimes that were referred to the NPA by the TRC.

“TRC matters, in their nature and due to the very long lapse of time, disintegration of evidence and lack of availability of critical witnesses, are very difficult to investigate and prosecute. The joint TRC team, made up of dedicated investigators from the DPCI and prosecutors will continue to fight the deserving fight against the apartheid- related atrocities and bring justice to society.

“This conviction is therefore a significant and impactful outcome, not only for the state and society, but most importantly for the victim's families. It brings an important sense of justice and closure, which is priceless,” the NPA said. - SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 09:54

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14 November 2024

Cabinet briefed on outcomes on State Visit to China

Location: News

Cabinet briefed on outcomes on State Visit to China

Cabinet has received a briefing on the outcomes of the recent successful State Visit to the People’s Republic of China that was led by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

President Ramaphosa undertook a State Visit to China and attended the Forum on China – Africa Cooperation Summit (FOCAC) in Beijing from 2 to 6 September 2024 at the invitation of President Xi Jinping.

China is South Africa's largest trading partner globally, while South Africa is China’s number one trading partner in Africa. Total bilateral trade grew from R614 billion in 2022 to R692 billion in 2023.

“An agreement to change the structure of trade into more value- added manufactured products, particularly an agreement to exchange a list of 100 value-added products from South Africa that China will consider importing.

“In addition, South Africa secured cooperation from China on three value chains relating to decarbonisation, digitalisation, transport and logistics. This cooperation will pave the way to promote investments in electric vehicles, battery manufacturing, renewable energy storage, as well as in identified Special Economic Zones and Industrial Development Zones,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Wednesday in Cape Town.

Key Chinese investors in both Shenzhen and Beijing expressed interest to either expand their investments or for greenfield investment into South Africa.

“During the State Visit, six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed aimed at promoting cooperations between China’s entities and South African companies and Development Finance Institutions to strengthen cooperation to promote industrial development in South Africa, promote technology cooperation to advance decarbonisation of key South African sectors and value -chains and to promote investments in the renewable energy sector.

“The agreements signed both at a government and private sector level will contribute to accelerate investments that promote green and low-carbon transformation and promote innovation in industrial activities and also attract investment in Special Economic Zones and Industrial Parks,” the Minister said.

Ntshavheni was briefing members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on 6 November 2024. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 11/13/2024 - 13:55

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14 November 2024

SA sizzles with tourism offerings

Location: News

SA sizzles with tourism offerings

As part of efforts to strengthen the tourism sector, government has launched the Summer Tourism Campaign, which encourages South Africans and visitors from across the globe to explore the country’s hidden tourist gems found across all nine provinces.

“The Gimme Summer – Sho’t Left Campaign will profile local tourist offerings to allow more South Africans to enjoy, explore and experience our nation’s hidden tourist attractions,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said on Wednesday in Cape Town.

Briefing members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on 6 November 2024, Ntshavheni said government has welcomed the gazetting of the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS).

The TTOS intends to streamline the visa application process for large tour groups from China and India.

“The initiative addresses capacity constraints at foreign missions and aims to attract more tourists from China and India, which respectively account for 1.8% and 3.9% of all international visitors to South Africa,” Ntshavheni said.

Interested travel companies can access the system by visiting https://touroperator.dha.gov.za or accessing the portal through the TTOS banner on www.dha.gov.za.

Furthermore, the country’s eVisa System has been rolled out to 34 countries to allow tourists from those countries to apply online for a visa to South Africa without having to visit any embassy or consulate. SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 11/13/2024 - 14:06

278 views

14 November 2024

Cabinet welcomes historic issuing of Muslim marriage certificates

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes historic issuing of Muslim marriage certificates

Cabinet has welcomed the historic issuing of the first batch of 33 Muslim marriage certificates by the Department of Home Affairs.

The marriage certificates were issued after the signing of the Divorce Amendment Bill into law in May this year by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The Bill amended the Divorce Act, 1979 (Act 70 of 1979) to recognise Muslim marriages and safeguard the interests of Muslim women and children if those marriages are dissolved.

“These long-overdue changes signal our country’s commitment to ensure that Muslim women and children’s rights to equality, dignity, access to justice as well as the best interests of the minor child, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996, are upheld.

“They also give effect to fostering greater social cohesion, nation-building and a shared national identity, as well as honouring various cultural and religious traditions,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni ,said on Wednesday in Cape Town.

Ntshavheni was briefing members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on 6 November 2024.

READ | Home Affairs issues first-ever certificates recognising Muslim marriages
-SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 11/13/2024 - 14:09

294 views

14 November 2024

Cabinet apprised of interventions to deal with foodborne illnesses and fatalities

Location: News

Cabinet apprised of interventions to deal with foodborne illnesses and fatalities

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the nation soon on the interventions government is undertaking to deal with foodborne illnesses and fatalities that have transpired in the country.

Speaking during a post-Cabinet briefing in Cape Town on Wednesday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said Cabinet has been briefed on the foodborne illnesses and fatalities recorded in parts of the country. Several people, including children, have lost their lives, with others being hospitalised in various incidents in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State.

“The President will address the nation on the interventions government is undertaking to deal with this situation.

“In the meantime, the Department of Health has activated the National Institute of Communicable Diseases to (NICD) to trace and examine the source of the poisoning of foodstuffs and make recommendations,” Ntshavheni said.

The Minister said the address would happen on a date yet to be confirmed.

Health officials have determined that Terbufos, a highly toxic chemical organophosphate, was the cause of death of six children in Naledi, Soweto, after they ate snacks bought from a local spaza shop.

The antidote of organophosphate and carbamate poisoning is an intravenous atropine injection which is used, among others, to treat insecticide or mushroom poisoning.

READ | Death of six Soweto children linked to Terbufos

Ntshavheni noted that the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, supported by the Department of Small Business Development and the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Disaster Management, have gazetted the Standard Draft By-laws for Township Economies.

This is aimed at mobilising municipalities around a common agenda and collective responses towards inclusive local economies and curbing illegal business operations in townships.

“Cabinet extends condolences to the families, friends and schoolmates of all the children, who lost their lives due to foodborne illnesses,” the Minister said.

The Minister addressed questions about the possibility of a special Cabinet meeting on the issue and whether there are plans to deploy the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to spaza shops across the country.

Ntshavheni explained that ministerial committees are currently engaged in work surrounding this matter.

She said that a special Cabinet meeting may also be convened, though the exact timing of it depends on the completion of work by multiple ministerial committees currently engaged in this process.

“The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Custer continue to do work to prepare for the President’s address. As the overall committee responsible for the NATJOINTS [National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure] work, there is no discussion of deploying the military to spaza shops.

“In terms of work that is underway, we think between ourselves, as the Security Cluster, outside of Defence, we have the capacity to handle what has to be handled. The President will [give an] address, however, I do not want to pre-empt when, given the work that is still being done by the committees,” she said.

Ntshavheni confirmed that the Joint Planning Committee for Security is meeting this afternoon to finalise issues in preparation for the President’s upcoming address.

“Depending on the progress made by various committees and provincial teams, if we complete our work in time, the President will address the nation this week,” she stated. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 11/13/2024 - 14:48

353 views

13 November 2024

Cabinet updated on SA’s water challenges

Location: News

Cabinet updated on SA’s water challenges

Government has urged the residents of Hammanskraal in Gauteng to exercise patience while work is underway to install a new water treatment plant at the Klipdrift Water Treatment Works.

The call was made by Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, during a post-Cabinet media briefing held in Cape Town on Wednesday.

“In 2023, the Ministry of Water and Sanitation directed Magalies Water to urgently intervene in terms of the Water Services Act, 1997 (Act 108 of 1997) and to design and install a new water-treatment plant at its Klipdrift Water Treatment Works near Hammanskraal.

“This will help ease the water challenges and provide long-term solutions. This additional water treatment plant will supply water to certain reservoirs in the city’s water distribution system to increase the supply of clean drinking water to Hammanskraal.

“Government urges the people of Hammanskraal and surrounding areas to be patient while this work is underway. The first phase is expected to be completed by 15 November 2024. This will allow the City of Tshwane to deliver potable water to some areas of Hammanskraal,” she said.

Ntshavheni acknowledged that the water challenges facing the community continue to negatively affect the lives of the people, including the provision of healthcare services at local facilities such as the Jubilee Hospital.

She moved to assure residents that Cabinet had received and considered a report from the Water and Sanitation Department on Hammanskraal.

“The City of Tshwane is currently implementing a R278 million project to repair the previously dysfunctional Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW).

“It is expected that increasing the capacity of the Rooiwal WWTW will cost about R2 billion. Cabinet was informed that the City of Tshwane will have to fund this project through revenue, borrowing or its Urban Settlements Development Grant allocations from the Department of Human Settlements,” she said.

Water restrictions

Meanwhile, the Minister said Cabinet was given an update on the level 1 water restrictions in Johannesburg which are due to begin on Thursday.

The restrictions were announced earlier this week and will see water supply throttled from 9am to 4pm daily.

READ | City of Johannesburg to implement water restrictions

“Cabinet was appraised of the level 1 water restrictions that are in place in Gauteng due to continued water demand as a result of high consumption caused by population growth, illegal connections, leaks and [the] misuse of water.

“The average consumption in Gauteng is 279 litres per capita per day compared to the international average of 173 litres per capita per day. Whilst the metropolitan municipalities in Gauteng have level 1 water restrictions in place, very little enforcement is undertaken by the municipalities.

“The Minister of Water and Sanitation and the Premier of Gauteng have requested the municipalities to impose level 2 water restrictions which will come with fines if consumers do not adhere to the restrictions,” Ntshavheni said.

She added that a National Water Crisis Committee is in the works to bolster water-related work nationally.

“Cabinet supported the decision by the President to augment the work that is currently spearheaded by the Deputy President [Paul Mashatile] by elevating the water matters as a crisis and establish a National Water Crisis committee that will develop a water action plan and bring in water experts in order to intervene to the nation-wide water challenges in the local government space,” she said.

Municipal water debt

Ntshavheni warned that the R23 billion collectively owed by municipalities to water boards was rising and unsustainable

She said Cabinet had been appraised on this debt.

“The debt threatens the financial viability of the water boards and the entire water sector. Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, recently met with several of the affected municipalities and received commitments to pay from most non-paying municipalities.

“Cabinet had previously approved the establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to address municipal turnaround. The IMC will also prioritise measures to address municipal debt payments to water boards, particularly those facing imminent bankruptcy,” she said. - SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 11/13/2024 - 14:54

397 views

13 November 2024

SA inches towards G20 Presidency

Location: News

SA inches towards G20 Presidency

The countdown to South Africa assuming the Presidency of the G20 from 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025 under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability” has begun.

“The Leaders Summit will be held in Johannesburg, Gauteng and the IMC [Inter-Ministerial Committee] is working with other provinces to host Ministerial and Working Groups meetings. We will launch the South Africa G20 programme on the 1st of December 2024,” Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said at a post-Cabinet briefing on Wednesday.

This as the country will participate in the upcoming G20 Summit on 18 and 19 November 2024, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with the 19 member countries.

READ | SA to play key role at upcoming G20 Summit

President Cyril Ramaphosa has previously said in his weekly newsletter that when South Africa takes over the G20 Presidency later this year, it will focus on the priorities of Africa and the Global South.

South Africa will assume the G20 Presidency from December 2024, approximately five years before the deadline of the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The President said that as a signatory to the Pact for the Future, the country aims to push for a people-driven, sustainable development.

“When South Africa assumes the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) later this year, we will prioritise the needs and aspirations of our continent and the Global South. As a signatory to the Pact for the Future, we want people-driven, sustainable development to become a reality,” the President said at that time.

International Court of Justice (ICJ)

Meanwhile, Cabinet has welcomed the filing of South Africa’s memorial to the ICJ, which shows how the government of Israel violated the Genocide Convention by promoting the destruction of Palestinians living in Gaza.

READ | Government condemns genocide disinformation efforts

The memorial of more 1300 pages – supported by exhibits and annexures – contains evidence of Israel’s genocidal acts, and its failure to prevent incitement to genocide.

“The filing of the memorial takes place at a time when Israel is intensifying the killing of civilians in Gaza and is intent on following a similar path of destruction in Lebanon.

“The memorial is a reminder to the global community of the atrocities perpetuated against the people of Palestine and the need for solidarity to stop the catastrophe.

“The filing also comes in the footsteps of the United Nations resolution condemning the actions of the Israeli government against the people of Palestine,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 11/13/2024 - 15:00

379 views

13 November 2024

Cabinet congratulates Botswana, Mozambique and the USA

Location: News

Cabinet congratulates Botswana, Mozambique and the USA

Cabinet has extended its congratulations to the governments and people of the Republic of Botswana, Mozambique and the United States of America (USA) on the successful conclusion of their recent elections.

“Cabinet commends the Umbrella for Democratic Change coalitions in Botswana on its success under the leadership of President-elect Duma Boko, and welcomed the establishment of transitional plans between the outgoing administration and the incoming administration of President-elect Boko,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said in a post-Cabinet briefing on Wednesday.

Cabinet has also congratulated Mozambican President-elect Daniel Chapo and his party, FRELIMO, on their victory following the country’s historic election, which was held 32 years following the signing of the General Peace Agreement.

The agreement brought an end to the civil war and introduced multi-party democracy in Mozambique.

US Election outcome

Cabinet has further congratulated President-elect Donald Trump following the US elections held on 5 November 2024.

“South Africa looks forward to working very closely with President-elect Trump over the next 12 months when President Cyril Ramaphosa assumes the Presidency of the G20 on 1 December 2024,” Cabinet said.

Answering a question on whether the US Presidential election outcome will change anything between South Africa and the US, Ntshavheni said government has indicated that it relates with the US government and that "it doesn’t matter which administration is in place".

“Our trade relationship is with the government of the day, and we continue to engage with them and whether there are trade issues or other diplomatic issues. Our view is that our participation in AGOA [African Growth and Opportunity Act] is anchored by the value that South Africa adds in the AGOA process, and how its participation adds value for the American economy – that is the position we maintain,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 11/13/2024 - 15:01

246 views

13 November 2024

Ongoing post-election violence in Mozambique a concern – Cabinet

Location: News

Ongoing post-election violence in Mozambique a concern – Cabinet

Cabinet has expressed concern over the ongoing post-election violence in Mozambique, urging all parties involved to use established legal channels to address their election-related grievances.

“The ongoing post-election violence is a concern, and all the disaffected parties should exhaust established legal remedies to resolve their election grievances and continue to build on the foundations of peace laid in the Maputo Accord for Peace and National Reconciliation,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said during a post-Cabinet briefing on Wednesday.

The Minister explained that SADC and AU representatives were present during the elections in Mozambique and that these structures indicated that despite a few hitches the elections were generally free. There were no incidents of violence or intimidation reported during elections.

READ I South Africa calls for calm amid post-election tensions in Mozambique

“Mozambique, just like South Africa, the United States and Botswana, has a mechanism and a system of disputing elections. It is the view of South Africa that all parties that are not happy with the election’s outcome, like we had in South Africa, must do so using the right channels.

“The parties in Mozambique must submit their grievances and their evidence of displeasure or dissatisfaction through the constitutional counsel and allowed the counsel to adjudicate on the matter. There is a period allowed for that.”

The Minister expressed concern over the recent violence, particularly those inciting unrest, saying it “sets a dangerous precedent”.

She said diplomatic channels have been engaged to ensure security forces do not use disproportionate force against those who are demonstrating. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 11/13/2024 - 15:04

255 views