SA News

18 August 2024

Mpumalanga police make headway in the fight against crime

Location: News

Mpumalanga police make headway in the fight against crime

Mpumalanga’s Acting Police Commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has expressed delight at a breakthrough made in the fight against cash-in-transit robberies that led to the arrest of four suspects.

This is after four suspects, aged between 30 and 49 were arrested in Vosman, Witbank on Saturday, 17 August.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) stated that the success of this operation was made possible by the proactive efforts of crime intelligence, which provided crucial information about the suspects’ plans.

“This information enabled a joint team to operationalise and strategically position themselves along the R545 Road, heading to Ogies. Upon spotting the suspects attempting to carry out the robbery in a white Mercedes Benz sedan, of which they failed, the members were able to intervene and prevent the attack on the security cash truck.”

The suspects then fled the scene in several other vehicles including a blue BMW 330i sedan and a charcoal Kia SUV.

“A high-speed chase ensued, with law enforcement agencies successfully intercepting the suspects in the Vosman policing area,” the statement read.

During the arrest, the SAPS said the suspects were found in possession of three AK-47 rifles with six magazines as well as 134 live rounds of ammunition, one 9 mm pistol with two magazines and 27 live ammunition.

“Additionally, hand gloves as well as balaclavas were confiscated during the arrest.”

The vehicles used in the attempted robbery were also seized for further investigation with preliminary findings revealing that the Mercedes Benz was reported stolen in Kabokweni last month.

Several officials were involved in this breakthrough, including the tracking team from Limpopo in conjunction with the one from Mpumalanga, and crime prevention members from Vosman and Fidelity Special Service.

The suspects will face multiple charges, including possession of prohibited firearms and stolen vehicles, and conspiracy to commit a robbery.

The suspects are due to appear at Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) taking over the investigation.

“The confiscated firearms will be subjected to ballistic testing to determine whether these weapons were not previously used in the commission of crime elsewhere hence police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges against the suspects as the investigation continues,” the police added.

Mkhwanazi said this operation, once again highlights the dedication and expertise of local law enforcement officers in combating violent crimes and ensuring the safety of communities.

“Firstly, we would like to appreciate the collaboration displayed by the team from Limpopo as well as our team from Mpumalanga and not forgetting the Fidelity Special Service which culminated in this magnificent achievement.

“We encourage the public to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with police to fight against criminal activities,” the Major General added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 12:30

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18 August 2024

SADC Ordinary Summit expresses concern over attacks on civilians in Palestine

Location: News

SADC Ordinary Summit expresses concern over attacks on civilians in Palestine

The 44th Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government has noted with concern, the ongoing attacks on civilians in Palestine.

“[The] Summit noted with concern the relentless attack on civilians in Palestine (Gaza) which has resulted in the loss of lives, destruction of property, and deteriorating humanitarian conditions and called for an immediate cease-fire, the release of all hostages, and the commencement of talks to bring a lasting solution to the conflict,” it said in its communique.

The 44th Ordinary Summit of the SADC was held in held in Harare, Zimbabwe on Saturday.

READ | President Ramaphosa arrives in Zimbabwe for Ordinary SADC Summit

The gathering elected President of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, as the Chairperson of SADC, and Madagascar President, Andry Rajoelina as the incoming Chairperson.

The Summit also reiterated the regional call made at the 39th SADC Summit for the unconditional removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe and acknowledged that the sanctions continue to hinder the progress and prosperity of Zimbabweans and the SADC region.

Mpox

The leaders also touched on the Mpox situation on the continent and in the SADC region.

The Member States welcomed the declaration by the World Health Organisation (WHO) of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHIEC).

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) also declared Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS).

They have since urged Member States to strengthen disease surveillance, diagnosis testing and clinical care, infection prevention and control as well as awareness raising of the disease at all levels of the community.
“The summit extended solidarity and support to Member States affected by Mpox and further requested the World Health Organisation, Africa CDC and other partners to avail resources towards the Mpox response in the region.”

READ | President Ramaphosa raises concern over rise of Mpox in AU region

Peace and security

In addition, the leaders reiterated their unwavering support to Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in promoting and consolidating peace, security and stability in the two countries.

“The summit commended His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, the President of the Republic of Angola, for his efforts to bring lasting peace to the security challenges in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo through the Luanda Process and brokering a cease-fire agreement between the DRC and Rwanda and called on the two countries to cease all hostilities.”

They also endorsed the establishment of the Office and the structure of the Special Representative of SADC and Head of Mission of SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC).

Elections

In addition, the leaders noted the SADC electoral calendar for the remaining part of 2024, which includes elections in Botswana and Mozambique in October. Elections will take place in Namibia in November and Mauritius on a date still to be determined.

The summit wished the Member States successful elections.

Economic growth and climate change

The gathering also endorsed the theme of the 44th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, titled ‘Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development towards an Industrialised SADC’.

The theme recognised that innovation is a fundamental instrument with significant potential to drive priority sectors of manufacturing, mineral beneficiation and agro-processing to enhance the industrialisation and economic growth of the SADC region.

The SADC Member States also committed to take the necessary measures at the regional and national levels to address the challenges faced by people with albinism.

“The summit urged Member States to continue monitoring weather and climate risks, including the forecasted La Niña event and develop contingency measures to mitigate the impact of disasters.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 14:40

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18 August 2024

Home Affairs finalises deportation of Libyan nationals

Location: News

Home Affairs finalises deportation of Libyan nationals

The Department of Home Affairs says it has concluded its preparations to deport the 95 Libyan nationals who were arrested in White River, Mpumalanga, last month.

This comes after charges were dropped against 95 men who were arrested on suspicion of receiving training at an illegal military camp.

“They are scheduled to leave South Africa from the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport this morning in a flight that has been paid for by the Libyan government,” the department said in statement on Sunday.

The Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, has since welcomed the swift conclusion of the deportation.
“I commend the Home Affairs officials and other law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to ensure an expeditious deportation.

“We will continue to deploy all resources at our disposal to ensure that the country’s immigration laws are respected and observed,” said Schreiber.

READ | Home Affairs welcomes court decision on 95 Libyans

Last week, the Minister said his department will not hesitate to act decisively to ensure that anyone who breaches the immigration laws of the country is processed through the courts and accordingly faces the consequences.

“Respect for the rule of law is sacrosanct,” the Minister added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 13:44

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18 August 2024

Government outlines further plans to commemorate Women’s Month

Location: News

Government outlines further plans to commemorate Women’s Month

Government departments will continue to host a variety of activities to commemorate Women’s Month.

On 9 August, South Africa commemorated Women’s Day in the Northern Cape under the theme: “Celebrating 30 years of democracy towards Women’s Development”.

READ | President Ramaphosa pays tribute to women

This follows the launch of Women’s Month on 31 July.

This year’s Women’s Month marks the 68th anniversary of the historic march of thousands of South African women from all walks of life to the Union Buildings in 1956. The march was in protest of the introduction of apartheid pass laws for Black women in 1952.

“During Women’s Month, we celebrate women as active agents of change and social transformation. The commemoration also allows us to take stock of achievements and the challenges that remain while mobilising support for the further development of women,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement.

The GCIS believes this year’s Women’s Month marks an important juncture for collective reflection on how South Africa has empowered and advanced the rights of women over the past three decades.

“We also celebrate 30 years of the Women’s Charter, which was established to drive equality.”

Government said it will advance the Women’s Charter for Accelerated Development that was formulated in 2021 to accelerate economic reforms to unlock women’s economic progress.

Several socio-economic empowerment programmes and events will take place during the month including a trade expo, fashion show, and social dialogues.

Advancing women

The Women Economic Assembly (Wenoca) will launch its research project findings on the ‘Economic Empowerment of Women in South Africa’s Property Sector’ at the University of South Africa (Unisa) in Pretoria.

The Wecona study focuses on using evidence-based methods to explore and address the challenges faced by women in the property sector and sub-sectors and identifies opportunities for economic empowerment.

The Charlotte Mannya Maxeke Foundation and Freedom Park in promoting social cohesion and discussing issues that delay women’s empowerment as a threat to gender equality, will host a Women Inclusivity Dialogue.

The dialogue will focus on assessing progress 30 years later and celebrating women's empowerment.
The session will also seek to find solutions to justice and equality for women led by women.

Meanwhile, the Department of Transport will host an information-sharing session for Cross Border Women Operators, to increase the participation of women in the cross-border market leading to the transformation of the industry. It will also encourage them to consider other sectors within the cross-border market.

In addition, the Department of Mineral Resources will host a Women in Energy and Mining Symposium to share opportunities in the energy and mining sector for women and the youth.

Youth initiatives

On 12 August, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) in partnership with the National Youth Development Agency launched the Job Shadowing Programme in all nine provinces through the respective Offices of the Premier.

In addition, the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) first-quarter report was released last week.
The PYEI is South Africa’s most comprehensive effort to address youth unemployment to enable more young people to move from learning to earning.

The GCIS said the PYEI is committed to addressing the gender gap in employment and a significant achievement of the intervention is that 70% of the opportunities have been secured by young women.

Women in law enforcement

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Parade is the celebration of women in uniform supported by men in solidarity with the Women, Peace and Security Agenda and United Nations Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace and security that was adopted by the United Nation (UN) Security Council on 31 October 2000.

The resolutions acknowledge the disproportionated and unique impact of armed conflict on women and girls.
In the Northern Cape, a provincial law enforcement parade will be held in Kuruman, to display a disciplinary approach which encourages service delivery in various sectors of government and further advocates the empowerment of women.

The South African Police Services (SAPS) has also started a campaign to highlight and celebrate women in the service who are behind major crime operations and also various fields within law enforcement such as forensics, crime intelligence and criminal investigations.

Public engagements and awareness campaigns

Across provinces, various community dialogues and workshops will take place on gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) initiatives.

Government in partnership with civil society will hold the 3rd National Men’s Day Against GBVF which will be officiated by Deputy President Paul Mashatile and His Majesty the King Misuzulu kaZwelithini on 24 August 2024.

The event led by the Goodmen Foundation in partnership with DWYPD seeks to use this event to increase awareness about the impact of GBVF on society, educate citizens about gender equity and profile support available for survivors and facilitate healing.

READ | President speaks out on gender-based violence

Women in transport

The National Aviation Gender Summit (NAGS) 2024 themed: ‘Lift as we rise: The journey towards 2030!’ will examine the progress made by the South African civil aviation industry towards this goal.
The summit will focus on addressing gender transformation gaps within the sector and emphasise the significance of mentorship in promoting gender equality.
The NAGS 2024 is targeting female aviation professionals and various industry representatives with responsibilities and a personal stake in issues of gender equality and diversity.

Women in the public service

Various provincial heads of departments and Directors-General with senior women managers will host the Public Service Women Management Week to evaluate and monitor progress on the implementation of women empowerment and gender equality programmes in departments.

“Ending the scourge of GBVF requires the efforts of government, private sector, civil society and every member of society. It is the responsibility of all South Africans to end the culture of silence around gender-based violence and protect the women and children.”

In elevating the fight against GBV in his 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Cyril Ramaphosa initiated the anti-GBV campaign, in which he called upon all South African men to unite to end GBV.

“Government continues to uphold its constitutional responsibility and national priority to protect, promote and advance the rights of women and persons with disabilities and the 2024 Women’s Month programme seeks to shine a spotlight on women in diverse fields and the strides made for advancing gender equity in the past 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy,” said the GCIS.

Further details on the events listed above as well as additional events are listed on the Women’s Month calendar which can be located at www.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 13:27

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18 August 2024

President Ramaphosa raises concern over rise of Mpox in AU region

Location: News

President Ramaphosa raises concern over rise of Mpox in AU region

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep concern about the rapid spread of Mpox across the African Union (AU) region, as both cases and deaths continue to surge, reflecting a concerning shift in the epidemiological pattern.

The President was speaking in his role as the AU Champion on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response (PPPR) regarding the Mpox outbreak.

“In my role as the AU Champion on PPPR, I have been closely monitoring the evolving Mpox situation, regularly briefed by the Director-General of Africa CDC and PPPR Commission,” he said in a statement on Saturday.

Since the start of 2024, he said 17 541 cases (2 822 confirmed and 14 719 suspected) and 517 deaths due to Mpox have been reported across 13 AU Member States.

This week, three additional countries notified cases under investigation for confirmation, which brings the total to 16 countries.

“Alarmingly, the number of reported cases in 2024 has surged by 160% compared to the same period in 2023.”

Strengthening the response to Mpox

He said that he fully backs the Director-General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention’s (Africa CDC) declaration of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security.

“This crucial decision empowers Africa CDC to lead and coordinate our collective response efforts, strengthening the Mpox response at every level – from community engagement to collaboration with the highest political authorities and our international partners.”

He believes that the declaration will also galvanise political leadership and engagement among AU Heads of State and Government, facilitating the rapid mobilisation of essential financial and technical resources.

The President also commended the Permanent Representatives Committee for their decisive action in releasing US$ 10.4 million from the COVID-19 Fund to support the Mpox outbreak response.

“I urge the AU policy organs to expedite the finalisation of the framework for operationalising the African Epidemic Fund, as approved by the Heads of State during the 2023 AU Assembly, by the end of August 2024.”

The President has since called the AU Member States to increase domestic resource allocation, lead their national Mpox outbreak responses and enhance their capacities.

These capabilities include building capacity, risk communication, community engagement, case detection, contact tracing, and cross-border surveillance.

Public Health Emergency of International Concern

He also welcomed the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) declaration of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

READ | WHO declares mpox outbreaks in Africa a global health emergency

The WHO said the upsurge of Mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and a growing number of countries constitute a PHEIC under the International Health Regulations (IHR).

However, the President said this PHEIC “must be different and correct the unfair treatment from the previous one declared in 2022, where vaccines and therapeutics were developed and made available primarily to Western countries, with little support extended to Africa”.

President Ramaphosa has since called upon WHO and all partners to collaborate closely with Africa CDC to ensure that this PHEIC unlocks appropriate support from the international community, guaranteeing equitable access to medical countermeasures, including diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines.

He also urged the international community, partners, and organisations to mobilise stockpiles of vaccines and other medical countermeasures for deployment in Africa, utilising the mechanisms established by Africa CDC to ensure equitable distribution, transparency, and coordination.

The President said Africa requires robust support in funding, research, and the sharing of technologies, with financial contributions directed to the Africa Epidemic Fund under the leadership of Africa CDC.

Pandemic Agreement

“This is also an opportunity to call on the international community to finalise a fair and equitable Pandemic Agreement – a duty that must be pursued with urgency and a spirit of equity.

“By fostering global partnerships, we can accelerate Africa’s response and ensure that all nations, regardless of economic status, have fair access to the resources needed to protect their populations.”

As the AU Champion, he vowed to work closely with his esteemed colleagues to ensure adequate political support and fundraising for the continental response to mpox and to prevent a regional and global pandemic. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 11:38

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18 August 2024

Minister to Buthelezi to hand over title deeds to Etwatwa community

Location: News

Minister to Buthelezi to hand over title deeds to Etwatwa community

Public Service and Administration Minister, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, is expected to visit service delivery sites and hand over title deeds to residents of Etwatwa in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality.

“This initiative is supported by various national, provincial, and local departments, aligning with the Presidential District Development Model (DDM) Imbizo scheduled for 23 August 2024,” said the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) in a statement.

The Minister’s visit will take place on Tuesday, 20 August.

“On this day, community members will have access to essential services, including those offered by the Department of Home Affairs and the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA)," said the DPSA.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to lead a Presidential District Development Model (DDM) Imbizo in Ekurhuleni in Gauteng on Friday.

The Presidential Imbizo will be the first to be held by the seventh administration.

At a media briefing earlier this month, Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya who said the DDM was established to improve coordination and alignment between the different spheres of government.

“This is an important initiative to improve planning, budgeting and implementation at a local level by bringing all spheres, departments and stakeholders together, towards uplifting our communities,” Magwenya said at the time. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 12:43

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18 August 2024

Department ends participation of CWP workers who receive old age grants

Location: News

Department ends participation of CWP workers who receive old age grants

The Department of Cooperative Governance (DCOG) has announced its decision to end the participation of Community Work Programme workers who also receive old age grants so as to redirect resources to those who rely solely on the programme for their livelihood.

According to the department, the decision comes after a thorough verification exercise conducted in collaboration with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA).

“Cognisant that the programme is funded from the same fiscus as the old age grants disbursed by the SASSA, it is considered prudent to avert double dipping, by participants especially those who are above the age of 60 years. This will allow the department to redirect resources to those who rely solely on this programme for their livelihood.”

The department believes that the exiting of participants who are already receiving stipends from government presents an opportunity to enrol more women, young people and people with disabilities.

“Moreover, exiting beneficiaries of old age grants will also enable the programme to maximise on imparting tech-based and artisanal skills, particularly among the unemployed women and youth.”

The department stated that it has, through the implementing agents, engaged the affected participants and issued them with formal letters, notifying them of the decision.

The last working day for affected participants was on Friday, 16 August 2024, while the final stipend will be paid on 25 September 2024.

“The department is mindful of the impact this decision might have on the affected participants. However, it is confident that in the long run, it will optimise the programme’s effectiveness and sustainability.”

Meanwhile, the department said it was committed to advancing poverty eradication and economic empowerment through community development, especially amongst the most vulnerable in society.
The department has described the CWP as one of the transformative flagship strategies that respond directly to social security through active economic participation.

“It is important to note that CWP is a temporary employment safety net, premised on the principle of graduating participants from poverty to self-sustenance through skilling and community development.
“The programme is designed to facilitate for temporary participant intake and sustainable socioeconomic exit paths.”

In efforts to enhance the impact of the programme, the DCOG has since adopted a smart partnership model in aid of sustainable exit strategies for participants.

“Additionally, the reimagined CWP aims to recruit youth as part of addressing unemployment and skills shortage amongst this cohort,” said the department. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 10:12

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18 August 2024

A good day at the office for South African sport

Location: News

A good day at the office for South African sport

It has been a good weekend for South African sport.

In a social media post on X, President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulated mixed martial artist, Dricus Du Plessis, for retaining the United Fighting Championship (UFC) Middleweight title.

“Congratulations Dricus Du Plessis, on retaining your UFC middleweight world championship with a submission in #UFC305.

“As a bonus, you kept our Flag flying hours after the Springboks scored an historic a 2-0 series win in Perth as well. We couldn’t wish for a better day in the office,” the President said on Sunday.

This as Du Plessis defeated Israel Adesanya in Perth, Australia.

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie also congratulated Du Plessis.

“This is who we are as a South Africans, one nation and sport crazy. Thank you Dricus Du Plessis, my voice is gone!” said the Minister in a post on X.

The Proteas Men also made the nation pride in their match against the West Indies.

“Winning is what we do! South Africa’s test series win yesterday was the 10th consecutive win against the West Indies! The Proteas made us so proud with an incredible team effort and clinical bowling when it mattered! Well done once again,” said Cricket South Africa on X on Sunday.

On the rugby front, the Springboks claimed victory in their bout against Australia in Perth on Saturday. The Springboks beat the Wallabies 30-12 in the second Castle Lager Rugby Championship Test.

In a post on X, the South African government congratulated the Springboks.

“You’ve made South Africa proud!,” it said. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 11:08

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18 August 2024

Load shedding suspension continues

Location: News

Load shedding suspension continues

Load shedding remains suspended, with Eskom providing uninterrupted power supply for over 142 consecutive days since 26 March 2024, including over 108 days of constant supply throughout the winter period.

There has been no load shedding since the start of Eskom’s financial year on 1 April 2024.

According to Eskom, the Generation Operational Recovery Plan continues to enhance efficiencies for Eskom, resulting in a R10.21 billion reduction in Open-Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) diesel expenditure from 1 April 2024 to 15 August 2024.

“This represents approximately a 74% decrease compared to the same period last year,” the power utility explained.

Eskom said the last time South Africa experienced over four months of load shedding suspension was more than four years ago, from 16 March 2020 to 9 July 2020, when load shedding was suspended for 116 days.
Eskom has maintained an average Energy Availability Factor (EAF) of 67% over the week.

In addition, over the past seven days, Majuba, Lethabo, Kendal, Kusile, and the peaking stations have recorded an EAF greater than 70%.

In addition, four more power stations have achieved an EAF above 60%.

“Notably, five of these stations were part of the priority list in our recovery plan. Eskom’s operational efficiency continues to surpass its winter assumptions, with current unplanned outages averaging between 9 800MW and 12 400MW since 01 April 2024 – the start of Eskom’s Financial Year 2025,” the organisation added.

Friday’s figures were sitting at 10 145MW, which according to Eskom was still significantly lower than the winter 2024 forecast.

However, the winter forecast, published in April, anticipated a likely scenario of unplanned outages at 15 500MW and load shedding limited to Stage 2 still remaining in force.

Eskom is expected to announce on 26 August 2024, its outlook for the summer period from 1 September 2024 to 31 March 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 09:46

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17 August 2024

President Ramaphosa arrives in Zimbabwe for Ordinary SADC Summit

Location: News

President Ramaphosa arrives in Zimbabwe for Ordinary SADC Summit

President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Harare, in the Republic of Zimbabwe to attend the 44th Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government.

The President arrived in neighbouring Zimbabwe on Saturday morning.

READ | President Ramaphosa appoints Minister Motshekga as Acting President

The 44th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government will take place today under the theme: “Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development towards an Industrialised SADC”.

The President will participate in discussions on the agenda of the Summit that include the Status of Member State Contributions, Regional Food and Nutrition Security, Status of health in the region, Implementation of the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap as well as candidatures to continental and international organisations.

“As South Africa commemorates the 30th Anniversary of its democracy and freedom, it will equally mark the 30th anniversary of its membership and active participation in SADC, since it joined this regional body in August 1994.

“The Summit will provide an opportunity for SADC leaders to assess and review progress made in terms of the region’s flagship integration agenda, the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030, which is about promoting peace and security, good governance, socio-economic development and integration in the region,” said the Presidency.

The President will also sign two SADC legal instruments; the SADC Declaration on Accelerating Action to End AIDS as a Public Health Threat in the Region by 2030 as well as the Agreement Amending the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development.

During the Summit, the Republic of Zimbabwe will assume the Chairpersonship of SADC, taking over from the Republic of Angola, which chaired SADC since the previous Summit held in Luanda, in August 2023.

The Summit is preceded by the SADC Council of Ministers Meeting which took place from 13-14 August 2024 which was attended by South Africa’s International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola.
Lamola commended the SADC for taking steps towards regional stability and economic integration.

READ | Lamola commends SADC’s steps towards regional stability and economic integration

A SADC Organ Troika Summit was also held on 16 August 2024.

President Ramaphosa is supported by Minister Lamola and the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sat, 08/17/2024 - 09:23

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17 August 2024

President Ramaphosa appoints Minister Motshekga as Acting President

Location: News

President Ramaphosa appoints Minister Motshekga as Acting President

Defence and Military Veterans Minister, Angie Motshekga, has been appointed as South Africa’s Acting President.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Ms Angie Motshekga to serve as Acting President today, Saturday, 17 August 2024,” said the Presidency in a brief statement on Saturday.

The appointment has been made in view of the President’s Working Visit today to Harare, Zimbabwe, to participate in the 44th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

President Ramaphosa arrived in Harare on Saturday morning to attend the Summit that will be held under the theme: “Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development towards an Industrialised SADC”. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sat, 08/17/2024 - 09:02

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17 August 2024

President Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law

Location: News

President Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act which sets out far-reaching reforms of the country’s electricity sector, including the establishment of a competitive electricity market.

In a statement on Friday, the Presidency said the bill assented to by the President amends the Electricity Regulation Act of 2006. This is so as to respond to current realities in the electricity sector.

It also opens up pathways to greater competition and reduced energy costs; increases investment in new generation capacity to achieve energy security; establishes an independent transmission company as the custodian of the national grid; and imposes severe penalties for damage to and sabotage of infrastructure.

The Electricity Regulation Amendment Act provides for the establishment, duties, powers and functions of the Transmission System Operator SOC Ltd (TSO) – which must be established as an independent entity within five years – and for the National Transmission Company of South Africa to act as the TSO in the interim.

It also provides for an open market platform that allows for competitive, wholesale or retail buying and selling of electricity.

The Act provides for market operation as a new activity that may be licensed by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA).

In addition, it requires the development of a Market Code that will establish rules to govern the future competitive market and outlines the process through which the code will be approved.

The Act further clarifies the principles that apply to the setting or approval of prices, charges and tariffs, providing, among others, that NERSA must enable an efficient licensee to recover the full cost of the licensed activity, must allow for a reasonable return proportionate to the risk of the licensed activity, and may provide for incentives for continued improvement of technical and economic efficiency.

As it does so, the regulator may consider factors such as security of supply, the diversity of supply and the promotion of renewable energy.

In addition, the Act distinguishes between tariffs that must be set or approved by the regulator, such as network charges, and those which are subject to a direct supply agreement or arise as an outcome of a competitive market.

“To ensure a level playing field for competition between multiple electricity generators, the Act provides that the system operator shall not discriminate between different generators or customers in relation to dispatching or balancing the system, except for objectively justifiable and identifiable reasons approved by the regulator.

“Access to the transmission and distribution power system must be objective, transparent and non-discriminatory,” said the Presidency.

These changes are in line with the broader reforms guided by the Energy Action Plan and the Eskom Roadmap, which aim to modernise and transform South Africa’s electricity system to end load shedding and ensure long-term energy security.

It is anticipated that diversity of supply and the promotion of renewables will stimulate a demand for new skills, innovation and technology in the electricity sector, which will generate new industrial activity and in turn mitigate unemployment.

Reinforcing the protection of public infrastructure as part of the fight against crime, the law provides for fines of up to R1 million or five years in prison – or both – for persons who, among other offences, damage, remove or destroy any transmission, distribution or reticulation cable, equipment or infrastructure.

Penalties for persons who unlawfully receive such cables, equipment or infrastructure face fines of up to R5 million or 10 years in prison, or both.

Going forward, the Act will lead to long term energy security, a more competitive energy system, more rapid uptake of renewable energy sources, and ultimately lower energy prices for all South Africans.

The Electricity Regulation Amendment (ERA) Bill was passed through a majority in the National Assembly in March.

READ | National Assembly passes Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill

-SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sat, 08/17/2024 - 08:32

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16 August 2024

Women still face barriers in accessing land

Location: News

Women still face barriers in accessing land

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has recommended that the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development takes the lead in ensuring the introduction of necessary national legislative reforms related to communal land.

The recommendation follows the commission’s reports, which found that women in rural areas still face discriminatory and patriarchal challenges that pose significant barriers in gaining access to land.

The Commission launched the reports titled: “Exploring Barriers to Women’s Access to Land in selected Provinces of South Africa” and “The State of Maternity and Neonatal Health Care in the Eastern Cape Province” on Thursday.

The study was conducted in accordance with the CGE mandate to investigate the obstacles to women’s access to communal land in rural South Africa.

The research focused on the Eastern Cape, North West, and Limpopo provinces, examining legislative, procedural, cultural, and socio-economic factors that impede women’s access to communal land in the country.
According to the research findings released on Thursday, there is a fragmented approach to the allocation of communal land in the three sampled provinces.

This is due to each senior traditional leader and their traditional councils adhering to their own cultural norms and beliefs, leading to disparities even within the provinces.

Findings

The study found that traditional leaders play a significant role in the allocation of land in all the communities visited.

Despite their involvement in traditional leadership structures at the local, provincial, and national levels, the study found that there is no coordination or consolidated framework to guide the allocation of communal land.

“It appears that the repeal of CLaRA (Communal Land Rights Act) created a legislative gap in the administration of communal land, with traditional leaders left to oversee processes, however, in an unguided and unregulated manner.

“There were no standard national guidelines or a policy for communal land allocation, resulting in corruption, gender discrimination, and queer invisibilising, resulting in inequitable access to land,” the report revealed.

The research findings indicated that traditional leadership structures, such as councils and land committees, did not fully represent all interest groups, despite being constituted through democratic processes such as elections and representative quotas.

The report noted that women in these structures did not always effectively represent the views of other women in the community, perpetuating inequality, and gender discrimination in some cases.

However, it noted that this is not universally true, as in some instances, women’s representation positively contributed to change.

Discrepancies

The study also revealed significant discrepancies in the procedures and costs attached to communal land applications, with no clear justification.

“While applicants in the North West paid a consistent fee of R500, those in Limpopo paid a fee ranging from R500 to R15 000 and from R100 to R100 000 in the Eastern Cape. In some cases, applicants were also required to pay application fees with sheep, chickens, and alcohol, particularly in the Eastern Cape.

“In Limpopo, communal land became increasingly expensive when designated for entrepreneurial activities, with traditional leaders and headmen demanding a 50% share of the business. In contrast, land for entrepreneurial purposes was provided at no cost in the North West,” the report said.

Allegations of corruption and unfair pricing of communal land in Limpopo, along with claims of judgments based on appearance, were also heard.

During the research, one member of a traditional leadership structure in the province confirmed that land that was designated for residential purposes [and] was assigned a standard fee of R1 000 and R5 000 for entrepreneurship.

“The widespread corruption and deception had a negative impact on the economic situation of women in the province. In some areas, the allocation of communal land could take two weeks to three months, while in other cases, applicants had been waiting for years.

“Cultural practices that required women to adhere to certain dress and behavioural expectations also affected their access to communal land [and] clothing and behavioural expectations were used to marginalise queer persons in these communities, particularly transgender and gender non-conforming individuals,” the report reads.

In the Eastern Cape, transgender and gender non-conforming individuals were ostracised, and this indicated that requests by queer persons for communal land access would not even be considered.

There are also cases where cultural norms required women to obtain access to communal land through their fathers or a male relative.

“In a village in the North West, it was mandated that land be allocated to the eldest male child in the family. Inheritance also posed challenges, especially in Limpopo, where women were at times denied the opportunity to claim property inheritance under the pretext of preserving the family legacy by passing properties to male children.

“Issues of marital status also discouraged women from independently accessing communal land. In some villages, women had a better chance of accessing communal land if they were married with children.

“In Limpopo specifically, a married applicant was considered ‘stable’ and therefore allocated land [while] unmarried women were often disadvantaged and risked losing their undeveloped land to reallocation and felt pressured to live with men for security as traditional leaders, who were often men, would grab their land,” the report said.

Age requirement

In some villages in the North West, rules state that women had to be 40 years old and men between 40 and 45 years old to qualify for communal land allocation.

In the Eastern Cape and Limpopo, the age requirement was either 18 or 21 years.

These age restrictions, especially in the North West, delayed individual development and served as an economic stumbling block, particularly given that land is an economic resource.

The Commission said the legislative reforms must address existing challenges of patriarchal practices, gender discrimination, and exclusions that are currently being justified under the guise of cultural beliefs and norms, which subjugate women and queer persons.

“Such reforms must be in accordance with the Constitution, including the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act,” the Commission said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 11:50

437 views

16 August 2024

Justice Department forges ahead with plans to extradite Bushiri and Gupta brothers

Location: News

Justice Department forges ahead with plans to extradite Bushiri and Gupta brothers

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Thembi Simelane, announced on Friday that the department is actively addressing Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters and Extradition requests involving South Africa.

“We are committed to fulfilling our treaty and extradition obligations to ensure that justice is served in all relevant cases,” she told journalists.

The Minister was speaking during a media briefing where she outlined the priorities of her department in the seventh administration.

She told journalists that recent developments include ongoing efforts to extradite Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife from Malawi, as well as the Gupta brothers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

“These cases have faced several challenges, but we remain steadfast in our pursuit of accountability. Our teams are working diligently through diplomatic and legal channels to bring these matters to a resolution.”

Bushiri fled South Africa while he was out on bail for fraud and money laundering charges.

Meanwhile, Atul and Rajesh Gupta are accused in South Africa of profiting from their close links with the former President Jacob Zuma and exerting unfair influence.

She also touched on the case involving Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes and his friend Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane, who were murdered in Durban in February last year.

The Minister said they were awaiting the judgment, which was heard this morning, on the main extradition application case involving Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande in Eswatini.

The Manzini Magistrate’s Court has since granted the application to extradite the Ndimande brothers to South Africa in connection with the murder of the two friends.

According to reports, the two accused were arrested in Mbabane and have been in police custody ever since. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 11:53

459 views

16 August 2024

Justice dept works to restore integrity of State Attorney and Master’s Offices

Location: News

Justice dept works to restore integrity of State Attorney and Master's Offices

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is implementing a “robust” turnaround strategy for the Office of the State Attorney, following allegations of fraud, corruption and malfeasance.

This is according to Justice Minister Thembi Simelane who briefed the media in Pretoria on Friday.

“The Department is currently implementing a robust turnaround strategy within the Offices of the State Attorney. This strategy is designed to address allegations of fraud, malfeasance, and corruption, as identified by the Special Investigating Unit [SIU],” the Minister said.

The Minister said rooting out corrupt individuals at the office is paramount to maintaining its integrity.
The office has been dogged by reports of malfeasance.

In one instance, a lawyer for the State Attorney’s office was arrested on charges following an SIU investigation and was released on bail of R20 000 for allegedly defrauding that office. In another incident, an assistant of the State Attorney – together with their co-accused – was ordered to pay back some R4.4 million after allegedly colluding to defraud the Gauteng Department of Health.

“We are committed to ensuring that all implicated individuals, regardless of their current employment status, are held accountable. This includes following through on the SIU's recommendations and initiating disciplinary proceedings where necessary.

“The integrity of the State Attorney’s offices is paramount, and we will continue to enforce our anti-corruption strategy to protect state resources and maintain public trust,” she explained.

Efficiency at the Master's Offices

Turning to the challenges at the Master’s Offices, the Minister said reforms are being undertaken to maximise its effectiveness and efficiency.

“These reforms are part of our broader efforts to combat corruption and improve service delivery within the justice system.The turnaround strategy for the Master’s Offices includes implementing the SIU's recommendations and enhancing oversight mechanisms to prevent future misconduct.

“We are focused on improving efficiency and customer service at all Master’s service points through strategic collaboration with key stakeholders. Restoring public confidence in the Master’s Offices is a top priority,” Simelane said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 12:38

346 views

16 August 2024

Investigating Directorate bolsters fight against corruption

Location: News

Investigating Directorate bolsters fight against corruption

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, says the operationalisation and establishment of the Investigating Directorate against Corruption (IDAC) – which resides within the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) – is a crucial step in government’s fight against corruption in the country.

The Minister was speaking at a media briefing in Tshwane on Friday.

In May this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa assented to the NPA Amendment Act and on Thursday, signed a proclamation which brought the Act into operation.

“The establishment… marks a significant milestone in our fight against corruption. Unlike the previous Investigating Directorate, which was subject to dissolution by proclamation, IDAC’s permanence ensures its independence and the necessary parliamentary oversight. It also provides the IDAC with criminal investigation powers.

“The IDAC will no longer rely on secondments for staffing. Instead, it will recruit permanent staff and invest in long-term training. This will enhance our capacity to combat complex corruption, implement decisions from commissions of inquiry, and uphold the recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption, and Fraud in the Public Sector,” Simelane said.

She added that the Justice Ministry is empowered to make regulations to support the critical work of the IDAC.

“The necessary regulations for section 19D(3) and section 22A(4) of the NPA Act have been prepared and will be published on 19 August 2024. Additionally, we are finalising regulations under section 8, which will allow for the appointment of a retired judge to oversee complaints related to IDAC investigators.”

Data of the State Capture Commission

Turning to work in the pursuance of justice as a result of the recommendations of the State Capture Commission, Simelane revealed that during a meeting between business and government this week, a commitment was made to collaborate to set up a digital evidence unit.

READ | Government, business partnership begins to flourish

During its existence, the commission’s data centre collected more than a petabyte of both structured and unstructured data stemming from:

Park Town Office: This office stored digital records from the Commission's hearings, investigations, and legal work, including data from the Commission's website.
Registry Office: This office received and collected documentary data submitted to the Secretariat office.

“The outcome of the meeting between the business-government partnership and President Cyril Ramaphosa is that the partnership is collaborating to set up a new independent digital evidence unit.

“The unit will extract and analyse data from encrypted devices such as cellphones and laptops to come up with the evidence needed to prosecute criminal cases of corruption successfully, specifically cases related to state capture,” she said.

The Minister was at pains to explain that the data collected by the commission during its existence has been shared with law enforcement agencies and that those agencies continue to have access to it.

“The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is the legal custodian of the Commission's assets, including its data, on behalf of the South African State, government, and people. Law enforcement agencies have priority access to the data but do not have exclusive access or ownership.

“To facilitate this, the Commission amended its Regulation 11 to grant special access to its data. The Commission also trained over 20 NPA investigators to access its digital forensic platforms,” Simelane said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 12:41

327 views

16 August 2024

Nuclear power procurement Ministerial Determination withdrawn

Location: News

Nuclear power procurement Ministerial Determination withdrawn

Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has announced that the Ministerial Determination for the procurement of 2 500MW of nuclear energy, has been withdrawn.

The Minister was speaking during a media briefing held on Friday in Pretoria.

The determination, and the National Energy Regulator of South Africa’s (Nersa) concurrence of the process, had come under legal pressure with groups contending that, amongst others, public comments had not been sought and the procedure had not been fair.

“I have taken the decision…to withdraw the gazette to allow for that public participation to happen.

“The only time we got to know and be alerted that the process was not subjected to a public consultation process is when the [court] papers were filed and the Minister took the decision that we are withdrawing the gazette; we allow for that public participation so that the process is clean…and transparent,” he told media.

WATCH | Minister Ramokgopa briefs media

In December last year, the Minister announced that South Africa would soon begin the procurement process for some 2 500MW of nuclear energy.

At a media briefing at the time, the Minister explained that the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) had to satisfy a raft of rigorous National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) suspensive conditions, which took into account various factors before the go-ahead could be issued.

As a result of the withdrawal, the Minister said, the process for the procurement will be delayed.

“Of course, there’s a penalty you pay as a result of this decision [in] that you are delaying the process. But we are happy to delay the process so that we are able to allow for each and every party in the country that wants to add a voice in how we are going to procure this process for them to be given the opportunity to be able to make that submission.

“So it will add another three to six months in the process. We are happy to do that for as long as we protect the integrity of the process; for as long as we cement the transparency of the process so that there’s general public confidence in the work that we are doing.

READ | Nuclear power build will be at a scale "we can afford" - Minister Ramokgopa

“I want to give confidence to the South African public that we will take you every step of the way. We will carry South Africans every step of the way to preserve the integrity of any procurement process, including the nuclear procurement process especially given its checkered history,” he explained.

Energy mix

Despite the withdrawal, the procurement of nuclear energy still remains a government plan for the country’s energy security.

Nuclear energy forms part of government’s Integrated Resource Plan 2019’s envisaged energy mix for South Africa.

“Nuclear is part of the mix. Nuclear is part of the future but it’s important that as we go out…the procurement process must be able to stand the test of time. In this instance, it’s the ability to be able to subject itself to scrutiny.

“Let’s go back to that process; accord the public an opportunity to scrutinise, respond and then on the basis of that [Nersa] can make a determination on concurrence. Once we receive that, we’ll issue the gazette and ensure that we procure,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 13:27

646 views

16 August 2024

Home Affairs tackles ID fraud

Location: News

Home Affairs tackles ID fraud

The Department of Home Affairs is taking decisive action against fraud involving identity books and cards.

Through a publication in the government gazette, the department has called upon persons who are currently in possession of blocked IDs to provide written reasons and representations within 30 days for why their ID should not be cancelled.

The submissions must be sent to: Sylvia.Phasha@dha.gov.za.

The department will also undertake a sustained social media advertising campaign to provide the public with an opportunity to make representations.

Through the move, Home Affairs aims to both resolve the decades-old issue of wrongfully blocked IDs while reducing the number of fraudulent documents in circulation.

Some of the IDs were originally blocked as far back as 2005 for a range of reasons. This includes the biometric system flagging the documents as duplicates, held by illegal immigrants, or because the ID holder had passed away.

By providing the public with an opportunity to make representations, the department intends to end the inconvenience caused by the block to holders of legitimate IDs, while cancelling IDs held by unauthorised persons.

The gazetting of this measure is also in furtherance of compliance with a court order handed down earlier this year, which required the department to undertake a fair administrative process to differentiate between IDs that have been wrongfully blocked and IDs that represent genuine security threats.

“I encourage members of the public to make use of this opportunity to ensure that we conduct a just and equitable process to unblock IDs that have been wrongfully blocked,” Minister Leon Schreiber said.

“At the same time, the gazetting of these decisive measures underscores our commitment to clamp down on fraud, and to move with urgency to resolve longstanding challenges while upholding the rule of law,” Schreiber said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 14:28

192 views

16 August 2024

BMA Commissioner to visit Port of Cape Town

Location: News

BMA Commissioner to visit Port of Cape Town

The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, will undertake a monitoring and evaluation visit to the Port of Cape Town.

The purpose of the visit is in response to the recently reported increased numbers in cruise liners utilising the port as an international destination of choice.

In preparation for the upcoming 2024 and 2025 cruise season, Tuesday’s visit to the port is to ensure that it is ready to deal with the projected increase in international visitors.

“Cape Town Port of Entry is also the second largest cargo processing seaport and cruise liner in the country with recent rapid increases having mandated the extension of the cruise season to be moved from November to June 2024 due to high demand,” the BMA said on Friday.

The BMA is responsible for the execution of frontline border law enforcement functions related to immigration control, port health, access control, biosecurity, food safety and phyto-sanitary control, land border infrastructure development and maintenance, border information and risk management. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 14:42

111 views

16 August 2024

Justice Maya ‘equal to the task’ at ConCourt, says Minister Simelane

Location: News

Justice Maya 'equal to the task' at ConCourt, says Minister Simelane

Chief Justice designate, Mandisa Maya is “capable” and equal to the task of heading South Africa’s apex court – the Constitutional Court.

This is according to Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, who was speaking to SAnews on Friday.

The appointment of Justice Maya – who is the current Deputy Chief Justice – was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July following consultation, in accordance with Constitutional prescripts, with the Judicial Service Commission and the leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly.

“In Women’s month, one is jubilant. We are not only jubilant because she’s a woman, but we are jubilant that all the discriminatory laws, the hinderances which make women who are capable…to be able to reach their heights are being overcome.

“We are aware that even today there are still some difficulties that women leaders meet and face even though they are capable. We do believe that in her agenda, she will continue as she has been doing to fight against gender-based violence – a scourge and a pandemic that has been declared by the President,” the Minister said.

READ | Cabinet congratulates Justice Maya on her appointment as Chief Justice

Simelane told SAnews she is looking forward to seeing even more female representation on the bench.

“We will further promote women. Currently we are sitting at about 52% of female judges and I do believe that a combination of a female Minister and a female Chief Justice should be able to see us reach 60 to 70% because capable women are there in our justice system. Ours is just to ensure that they can be able to grow.

“Justice [Maya] is equal to the task, and I do believe that we are flying higher to ensuring that there will be access to justice for all South Africans,” Simelane concluded.

She is expected to assume her duties on 1 September 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 13:53

168 views

16 August 2024

Survey reveals uneven progress in Eastern Cape’s fight against HIV

Location: News

Survey reveals uneven progress in Eastern Cape’s fight against HIV

The Sixth South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence and Behaviour Survey (SABSSM VI) for the Eastern Cape has found that HIV prevalence in the province seems to have stabilised from 15.9% in 2017 to 13.7% in 2022.

This translates to approximately 980 000 people with HIV in the Eastern Cape, down from one million in 2017.

The data is based on the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), which released the key findings of the SABSSM VI for the Eastern Cape on Thursday.

The findings also revealed that in 2022, HIV prevalence in the province was highest among individuals aged 25 to 49 years (27.7%), with females (35.4%) and males (17.1%) in the same age group being disproportionately affected.

Among males, HIV prevalence was highest in urban areas (8.7%), while among females, it was highest in rural informal or tribal areas (19.8%).

According to the overall principal investigator of the study, the HSRC’s Professor Khangelani Zuma, the survey shows that HIV prevalence peaked at 34.8% among those aged 40 to 44 years in 2022, down from a peak of 39.8% in 2017 among those aged 35 to 39 years.

“This indicates a decline in HIV prevalence in 2022 across the following age groups: zero to 35 years and 45 to 59 years, except the peak among those aged 40 to 44 years and 60 years and older,” he explained.

The data also presented results for six priority districts within the province, including Alfred Nzo, Amathole, Buffalo City, Chris Hani, Nelson Mandela Bay, and OR Tambo.

The survey found that in 2022, HIV prevalence was highest in Chris Hani (14.4%), followed by Amathole (14.1%), Alfred Nzo (13.9%), and Nelson Mandela Bay (9.7%).

However, the HIV prevalence data for the Joe Gqabi and Sarah Baartman districts were not reported due to insufficient data.

Treatment

Nationally, the current use of antiretroviral treatment (ART) among all people with HIV increased to 80.9% in 2022 from 63.7% in 2017.

The Eastern Cape recorded an increase in ART coverage, from 67.8% in 2017 to 83.5% in 2022.

This translates to an estimated 723 000 people receiving ART in 2022.

The survey further shows that in 2022, ART use among all people with HIV in the province was 70.9% among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 years, and 84.8% among those aged 25 to 49 years.

ART coverage was substantially lower among females aged 15 to 24 (68.7%) compared to those aged 25 to 49 (88.2%).

In terms of districts, ART use was lowest in Nelson Mandela Bay (69.4%) and Buffalo City (79.4%), and highest in Alfred Nzo (92.0%).

Viral load

The survey further found that in the Eastern Cape, the proportion of people with Viral Load Suppression (VLS) was 79.3% in 2022, which was an increase from 66.3% in 2017.

However, VLS was 61.4% among children aged zero to 14 years. Among those aged 15 to 49 years, VLS was 78.6%, but substantially lower among males (65.4%) compared to females (83.9%) in this age group.

Nationally, the survey found that 81.4% of all people with HIV were virally suppressed.

Zuma said it was concerning that people with HIV aged between 25 and 49 years account for most people living with HIV in the Eastern Cape, who are unaware of their HIV status (61.2%), aware but not on ART (63.3%), and on ART with no VLS (65.6%).

“However, adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 years contribute disproportionately to gaps in treatment, accounting for just 9.6% of all people living with HIV, but 22.4% of them are unaware of their status, 18.3% are aware but not on ART, and 13.8% are on ART with no VLS,” he said.

Female adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 years account for a minority of female people living with HIV (11.3%), but a relatively larger proportion of those who do not know their HIV status (31.4%), are not on ART (24.2%), or are on ART but not virally suppressed (18.7%).

Early sexual debut

Focusing on the key drivers of the HIV pandemic, Zuma indicated that the Eastern Cape had the highest prevalence of early sexual debut among provinces in 2022.

“The proportion of adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 years who reported having sex before the age of 15 years remained unchanged from 2017 (15.8%) to 2022 (15.3%). In 2022, sexual debut before the age of 15 years among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 years was higher among males (21.7%) than among females (9.5%),” the Professor said.

Among districts, early sexual debut ranged from 8.7% in Nelson Mandela Bay to 18.9% in Buffalo City.

Multiple partners

Other key drivers included having multiple sexual partners. In the province, 11.9% of people aged 15 years and older reported having multiple sexual partners in 2022, compared to 10.9% in 2017.

Among people aged 15 years and older, the proportion of males who reported having multiple sexual partners was threefold higher (17.9%) compared to females (5.5%).

The proportion of people who reported having multiple sexual partners was highest in rural informal or tribal areas (13.6%).

By district, the prevalence of multiple sexual partners was highest in Alfred Nzo (15.2%) and OR Tambo (15.2%), and lowest in Nelson Mandela Bay (7.0%).

Condoms

Regarding condom use, 34.7% of respondents in the Eastern Cape reported using a condom with their most recent sexual partner in 2022, compared to 38.1% in 2017.

Condom use was substantially lower among those residing in rural formal or farm areas (18.0%) compared to urban areas (35.6%).

However, nearly 60% of adolescents and youth reported using a condom sometimes or never.

“The consistency of condom uses with the most recent sexual partner among people aged 15 years and older was highest in Nelson Mandela Bay (65.5%) and lowest in Amathole (38.7%).”

In this province, the self-reported circumcision rate was 80.5% in 2017 and 77.2% in 2022.

However, the province had the lowest proportion of medical male circumcisions in the country, at 14.3%.

Knowledge (30.9%) and use (2.5%) of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) were universally low; however, willingness to take PrEP was high (70.3%). – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 08/15/2024 - 15:40

312 views

16 August 2024

PRASA terminates employment of Zolani Matthews

Location: News

PRASA terminates employment of Zolani Matthews

The Board of Control (BOC) of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has announced the termination of Zolani Matthews’s employment with immediate effect.

Last month, Matthews was reinstated as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), in compliance with the judgement by the Labour Court.

PRASA Board Chairperson, Nosizwe Nokwe-Macamo, said the termination of Matthews’s employment was in line with his contract, and in the interest of PRASA and all rail passengers, as the rail agency remains focused on reopening all rail corridors and refurbishing more stations.

“PRASA has made significant progress in getting South Africa’s passenger rail service back on track, with 31 of the 40 rail corridors opened and functioning at limited capacity. The Board cannot afford to be distracted from delivering on PRASA’s core mandate of transporting commuters safely and cost-effectively,” Nokwe-Macamo said on Thursday.

The PRASA board terminated Matthews’s contract in December 2021 after an investigation by seasoned senior counsel that established whether Matthews deliberately and intentionally failed to disclose material information to PRASA in respect of his dual citizenship.

According to media reports, months later, retired judge Robert Nugent ruled that PRASA should reinstate Matthews with back pay during arbitration proceedings.

In response, PRASA applied to the Labour Court to review Nugent's ruling. In July, the Labour Court ruled that Matthews’s contract was still valid.

Nokwe-Macamo said the Board had intended to reach an amicable agreement with Matthews but attempts to do so failed, leaving PRASA with no choice but to terminate Matthews’s contract.

“In compliance with the Labour Court judgment of 1 July 2024, PRASA reinstated Matthews and paid to him the backdated remuneration, as contemplated in the ruling. PRASA had engaged with Matthews and his legal team to discuss the implications of the judgment and to find a settlement.

“However, given that the attempts to reach agreement have failed, a settlement is no longer an option. In this regard, PRASA has taken the decision to terminate Matthews’ fixed term contract under clause 11.2 of his contract. Matthews will be paid out for the remainder of his contract, thereby bringing certainty regarding the leadership of PRASA,” Nokwe-Macamo said.

The Board Chairperson said PRASA was well on its way to recover rail service in South Africa.

“PRASA is steadily improving its performance through the recovery of passenger rail services, improved safety and security, the acceleration of project implementation through the capital programmes and modernization projects, as well as enhancing revenue, containing costs, and dealing with governance.

“We would like to reassure our passengers and stakeholders that PRASA is firmly focused on delivering on the expectations of our shareholder, the government of South Africa, and the public.

“We have a passionate and professional Board which has been steering PRASA through difficult times. We also have a strong management team led by GCEO Hishaam Emeran and, as the Board, we have every confidence in their ability to achieve the strategic objectives of PRASA and manage the current challenges,” Nokwe-Macamo said.

She said PRASA is in good hands as it moves forward with investments in multibillion rand future projects, including the opening of new lines and the introduction of new trains. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 09:56

365 views

16 August 2024

Government working to finalise Marikana tragedy claims

Location: News

Government working to finalise Marikana tragedy claims

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Thembi Simelane, says government remains dedicated to addressing claims arising from the Marikana tragedy.

Today marks the 12th anniversary of the Marikana tragedy.

On 16 August 2016, 34 mineworkers at the Lonmin mine in the North West were shot by police while they were demanding a salary of R12 500 a month.

Ten police officers were also killed in the days leading up to the Marikana massacre. Speaking at Friday’s media briefing, Simelane described today as a “sombre chapter in the nation’s history that continues to resonate deeply”.

According to Simelane, about R352 million has been disbursed in claims related to Marikana.

“This reflects our ongoing efforts to ensure that those affected receive the compensation they are due,” she said at the briefing held at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) in Pretoria.

READ | Government pays out more than R330m to Marikana victims

The beneficiaries include the families of the 34 mine workers who lost their lives, as well as the injured and arrested mine workers.

“Each case has been assessed individually to ensure that compensation aligns with legal frameworks and court directives.

“We have resolved most aspects of the Marikana matter, apart from constitutional damages, which are currently under consideration by the Gauteng High Court. We remain committed to finalising this matter and ensuring that justice is served.”

Meetings

Over the past few weeks, the Minister said her office has conducted a series of comprehensive meetings with management and branch heads to gain a detailed understanding of the department’s operational challenges and opportunities.

They have also consulted with the entities reporting to the department and said they have received invaluable input from these briefings as they prepare for the new administration.

“We are grateful for the messages of support and constructive advice from various organisations and institutions within the justice cluster. These insights will be instrumental as we work together to uphold and promote fair justice practices,” she explained.

Special Tribunal

In addition, the Minister said the department remains resolute in its commitment to bring perpetrators of corruption to justice.

The Special Tribunal, established in 2019, she stressed, continues to play a crucial role in recovering State funds lost to corruption.

To date, she said the Tribunal has successfully recovered an estimated R15 billion, demonstrating the effectiveness of this specialised judicial body.

She also announced that the Presidency will soon announce the names of the Judges of the Special Tribunal, ensuring that the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has the judicial support necessary to pursue further cases of corruption and malfeasance. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 11:29

82 views

16 August 2024

Government, private sector partnerships offer hope for jobs

Location: News

Government, private sector partnerships offer hope for jobs

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has expressed optimism that the strengthened partnership between government and business will significantly boost economic growth and pave the way for increased job creation.

In a statement on Thursday, Meth acknowledged the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) report for the second quarter of 2024 that was released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) earlier this week.

She noted that while the official unemployment rate has increased from 32,9% in quarter one to 33,5% in quarter two, the number of employed persons in quarter two:2020 during the COVID inception was 14,1 million and 16.7 million in the second quarter of 2024, showing an increase in the labour force.

Additionally, the Minister said a decrease in the unemployment rate recorded in Limpopo, Free State and the Eastern Cape is encouraging and commendable under the circumstances.

“Whilst government has continued to put in place interventions like addressing load shedding, resolving transport and logistics challenges, the economy is not growing as expected. Some of the key contributions to this sluggish economic growth are that South Africa is not insulated from the global economic pressures and geo-politics.

“Henceforth, the scale at which the partnership between government and business is to be elevated, there is much hope that we will see a turn on economic growth yielding to job creation,” Meth said.

Meth considers her department as central in intensifying the coordination of contributions that are to yield the results needed to address and arrest the stubborn nature of unemployment.

As such, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is contributing to the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative which will conclude the next intake of the one million young people as school assistants in over 23 000 schools across South Africa.

In the 2023/2024 financial year, the department has played a crucial role in job preservation saving 14 887 jobs as part of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) dispute resolution mechanisms.
Furthermore, through another of the department’s entity, Productivity South Africa’s business turnaround and recovery programme, 71 enterprises were assisted resulting in 5 390 jobs being saved.

As Minister Meth continues with her first 100 days in office, her plan of action to refine and repurpose the strategic thrust of the department in ensuring that the employment mandate is sharpened and delivers tangible results, remains high.

The Minister was appointed in June.

The department and its entities continue to preserve jobs through the signing of the funding agreement between the UIF and Productivity SA projected to benefit 226 companies with a target to save 11 300 jobs in the next three years.

“Aligned to the three priorities of the 7th administration, my department, in fulfilling its mandate needs a collective approach and refined coordinated efforts that are vigorous to turnaround the status quo, particularly, youth unemployment,” Meth said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 08/16/2024 - 10:19

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