SA News

5 August 2024

Nzimande to address the world’s largest astronomy meeting

Location: News

Nzimande to address the world’s largest astronomy meeting

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, will give the opening address at the world’s largest astronomy meeting, the 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomy Union (IAU).

The two week-long meeting will kick off on Tuesday, 6 August, in Cape Town, South Africa.

Hosted for the first time in Africa, the in-person and virtual global gathering of astronomers and other experts in the field will also provide open access for anyone to attend from anywhere in the world.

According to the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), world-renowned astronomers Dr Mae Jemison and Dr Sian Proctor will address the assembly.

Jemison became the first female African American commercial astronaut and mission pilot to travel into space when she went into orbit aboard the National Administration and Space Administration’s (NASA) Space Shuttle Endeavour on 12 September 1992.

Proctor is an astronaut and was the first female pilot of a commercial spaceship.

The department said the two renowned experts will speak to over 2 000 astronomers from around the world at this event, which takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

“The assembly is an opportunity for astronomers to address key topics in contemporary astronomy and assess the latest scientific progress in various specialised areas,” the statement read.

This year’s General Assembly represents a significant milestone, highlighting Africa’s growing role in the global astronomical community and its potential for major contributions to astronomical research and development.

Meanwhile, the Minister’s address will underscore the commitment to advance Africa’s astronomy and science on the global stage as well as highlight South Africa’s massive investments in skills and infrastructure development.

His speech will also touch on the geographical advantages of clear southern skies in the Karoo, its engineering and scientific base, and its growing international ranking and partnerships.

“One highlight will be the opportunity for attendees to speak to the astronauts on board the International Space Station live from the conference venue via ham radio, in partnership with Amateur Radio on the International Space Station.”

Other guests include the former director of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), Dr Bernie Fanaroff, who will deliver a talk on ‘Innovating at the periphery: the development of SKA and MeerKAT’.

The IAU General Assembly is held every three years and is led by the African Astronomical Society.

Each event advances the astronomical sciences through international collaboration and celebrates Africa's rich astronomical heritage and commitment to advancing the field.

The hybrid event is being hosted by the National Research Foundation, supported by the DSI.

The academic programme will include over 2 000 presentations scheduled across more than 300 sessions.

The General Assembly will include six symposia and 12 multi-session focus meetings. There will also be poster sessions and prize lectures given by recipients of prestigious awards in astronomy.

According to the department, this meeting will have a societal impact that goes beyond national barriers in a continent-wide celebration of astrology.

Exhibitors will include the South Africa Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), the South African Astronomical Observatory, NASA, the European Space Agency and the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, the US National Radio Astronomy Observatory, and several South African agencies. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:26

4 views

5 August 2024

Ramokgopa to visit Northern Cape accident scene

Location: News

Ramokgopa to visit Northern Cape accident scene

The Minister of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa will conduct a site visit to the Tsantsabane Local Municipality following the death of four passengers and the injury of two others in a collision between a train and a private truck.

The Minister will be briefed on the accident and also pay respects to the victims of the accident.

On Sunday four passengers died while two were injured during the collision between Tsanstabane and Groenwater in the Northern Cape.

“I am saddened at the loss of life in another level crossing accident in the country. This tragic accident highlights the importance for all stakeholders to work together to promote railway level crossing safety. I would like to express my deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased passengers,” Ramokgopa said ahead of Monday’s visit. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 09:56

137 views

4 August 2024

Police rescue 90 Ethiopian nationals, kidnap victim

Location: News

Police rescue 90 Ethiopian nationals, kidnap victim

Ninety undocumented Ethiopian nationals, who were allegedly being kept against their will and under inhumane conditions, have been rescued in Sunnydale Ridge, Johannesburg by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Special Task Force (STF) unit.

“A multidisciplinary team, led by the STF, were tracing a victim of kidnapping for ransom when they they also made the discovery of the undocumented nationals who were found locked up, confined and packed into rooms.

“Investigations are underway as to how these nationals were trafficked into SA,” said the police in a statement on Sunday, adding that the Ethiopian nationals were all taken to hospital for medical care.

Among the Ethiopian nationals was the kidnapped victim who was also rescued.

The victim had been kidnapped in Benoni on Tuesday afternoon and his kidnappers immediately started demanding hundreds of thousands of ransom money from his family.

Two alleged human traffickers and kidnappers who were found on the property have been arrested and are likely to face charges of kidnapping and human trafficking.

They are expected to appear before the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court soon.

The case has been handed over to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (HAWKS) for further investigations.

The police said the operation would not have been successful without the work of the crime intelligence unit, organised crime detectives unit, Sandringham and Daveyton SAPS as well as private security. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Sun, 08/04/2024 - 12:38

324 views

4 August 2024

Former DHA official sentenced to 12 years imprisonment

Location: News

Former DHA official sentenced to 12 years imprisonment

The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, has welcomed the sentence imposed on a former Home Affairs official by the Durban Commercial Crime Court.

Judy Zuma was sentenced to an effective 12 years imprisonment this week. She was part of a syndicate which delivered fraudulent passports for reward to foreign nationals who did not qualify for the documents.

The Minister described the sentence as a breakthrough in the fight against organised corruption.

“The message sent by this conviction is crystal clear: if you engage in corruption, we will find you and we will pursue you until you are locked up. We will not rest until we have cleansed the scourge of corruption from the face of Home Affairs,” Schreiber said.

The Minister said the sentence must signal a new culture of zero-tolerance towards corruption.

“The fight against corruption in this department, as demonstrated by the serious nature of the issues raised in this case, is particularly urgent given that Home Affairs sits at the heart of our national security apparatus,” Schreiber said.

The sentence imposed on Zuma translates into an effective 12 years of direct imprisonment, with another 24 years suspended.

She was originally arrested in a sting operation after she tried to bribe a Home Affairs Counter Corruption officer with R10 000.

The court confirmed that Zuma, who was convicted for multiple offences, was part of a syndicate issuing fraudulent passports to foreign nationals who did not qualify for the documents.

Zuma was found to have processed 192 passports between 28 May and 12 June 2021 for foreign nationals who did not qualify to have them. She was paid R4 000 for each passport. She left the department in December 2021, following an internal disciplinary process.

The department said all the affected passports have been red-flagged, meaning that anyone who tries to use these fraudulent documents at a port of entry will be immediately arrested.

“So far, two foreign nationals have already been locked away, serving time for their involvement in this corrupt scheme. Another two were sentenced to four years imprisonment [on Friday],” said the department.

To improve the security of travel documents, the department in 2022 introduced a requirement that passports be activated via fingerprints at the office of application. This means that passports can only be used after the owner has validated them with their own fingerprints.

It is alleged that Zuma was recruited into this scheme by another former Home Affairs official, Zima Shange, who was sentenced to an effective 10 years imprisonment in October 2023.

The Minister said the crackdown on both officials and foreign nationals involved in the syndicate strengthened his resolve to support the work of the Counter-Corruption Branch of the department as the successful convictions demonstrate that the “cancer of corruption can be defeated”.

“I am repulsed by the actions of Zuma and other members of such syndicates, who cheapen our documents, threaten our security, and undermine the work done by committed Home Affairs officials,” Schreiber said. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Sun, 08/04/2024 - 12:25

2 views

2 August 2024

Electoral Commission receives clean audit

Location: News

Electoral Commission receives clean audit

The Electoral Commission has received a clean audit report for the fourth time in a row.

“The Electoral Commission is proud to announce that the Auditor-General has concluded the external audit procedures on the 2023/2024 financial statements of the Electoral Commission as well as Party Funding. The outcome of both these external audits is clean audit opinion.

“This feat is achieved for the fourth consecutive time,” the Commission said in a statement on Thursday.

The commission said the clean audit opinions speak to the financial probity as well as the strength of internal controls which remain of the highest standards adding that the adherence to prescripts in the form of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and its corresponding regulations.

Electoral Commission CEO Sy Mamabolo welcomed the clean audit and commended staff for working tirelessly to ensure that accountability, proficiency, and transparency is always at the centre of the organisation’s business practices.

“Throughout the years we have implemented internal controls to manage performance of the organisation. We strive to maintain this standard going forward, even during busy election periods,” said Mamabolo.

He went further to say, “as the Electoral Commission we have not only committed ourselves to delivering reputable elections but have also made it our business to ensure our business practices are of the highest standard through the consistent implementation of internal controls.”

The audit report, together with the Annual Report, will be presented to the seventh iteration of the National Assembly in line with the provisions of the Electoral Commission Act and the PFMA. -SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 09:09

386 views

2 August 2024

DPWI to institute a commission of inquiry into Telkom headquarters building

Location: News

DPWI to institute a commission of inquiry into Telkom headquarters building

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson says he will commission an independent report into the purchase of the former Telkom headquarters building in 2016 for R695 million and its subsequent renovation for R250 million.

The commission is meant to provide the Minister with recommendations within 60 days following its appointment and the necessary steps to address and remedy the situation.

Joined by the City of Tshwane Mayor, Cilliers Brink, on an oversight visit to the building on Thursday morning, Macpherson said it is unacceptable that for the past eight years, the building complex has barely been utilised and has been left vacant.

“It is disheartening that so much public funding has been spent to purchase and renovate the building, [and it has been] vandalised and occupied by criminal elements, thereby creating an additional burden for the City of Tshwane,” Macpherson said.

“We simply cannot spend more than eight years trying to establish how to secure public property while it deteriorates into lawlessness,” he said.

The Minister said the terms of reference for the independent investigation will be to provide him with answers to the following questions:

What led to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure buying the Telkom Tower complex and whether the purchase was necessary?
What was the process which was followed for contracts to be appointed and whether the contractors were fit for purpose?
Whether the purchase of the complex by the Department of Public Works was the best option for the South African Police Service?
Whether any officials should be held accountable for the position the department finds itself in, in relation to the purchase and renovation of the building?
Are there any grounds to reclaim any monies paid to contractors where work was not done, or not done according to building standards or health and safety standards?
What will be the best way forward considering the current state of the building?
What steps can be taken to avoid the situation from occurring again?

“As the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, we need to start moving faster to ensure that public investments are secured and utilised to avoid the wastage of any public monies in a fiscally constrained environment.

“We simply cannot be spending millions to repair and address vandalism, and poor planning and spending by the department,” the Minister said.

“We will have to start working closer with role players such as the City of Tshwane to ensure our buildings are used for the public good and do not fall into disrepair and cause a burden for the municipality. By working together, we can reclaim these buildings, unleash infrastructure investment and turn the country into a construction site. Let’s Build South Africa,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 09:23

708 views

2 August 2024

Tatjana Smith a “shining example of humility with a killer competitive spirit”

Location: News

Tatjana Smith a "shining example of humility with a killer competitive spirit"

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has congratulated South African swimmer Tatjana Smith for scooping the silver medal in the 200m breaststroke at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Smith was beaten to the wall by 0.36sec by the American Kate Douglass at the La Défence Arena on Thursday evening.

“It was Smith’s second medal of the 2024 Paris Games, after taking the 100m gold, and a flip reversal of what she produced at her first Olympics in Tokyo on that occasion, taking silver in the 100m and gold in the longer, more favoured 200m.

“In elevating herself to greatest-ever South African Olympian status, she joined Chad le Clos on four medals, but outweighs him by virtue of her two golds and two silvers.

“While Penny Heyns, in 1996, remains the last women’s breaststroker to do the double, Smith tied with Japan’s Kosuke Katajima as the only four-time breaststroke medallists in Olympic history, both men and women,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said.

The Minister said Smith’s achievements stand as an elegant example of the power of women in sport.

“Tatjana, as a nation we are bursting with pride tonight. You fought to the end and were beaten only in the turns by a classy American competitor, Kate Douglass. I applaud you for your warm smile and your honest congratulations for your gold-medal rival in the lane next to you.

“Being able to stay gracious in victory and defeat is what the world will remember most about you, and it is a quality that defines most South Africans. You are a shining example of humility with a killer competitive spirit and undying will to win. May all our young people look up to your example and try to equal or surpass you in future,” McKenzie said.

The Minister said South Africa must continue to bring more women into all sports and support them to break every record. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 09:24

769 views

2 August 2024

Justice department condemns alleged racism incidents

Location: News

Justice department condemns alleged racism incidents

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCOD) has condemned the alleged acts of racism at South African schools and committed to intensify the awareness of constitutional rights, including the prohibition against hate crimes and hate speech and the prevention and combating of these offences.

A racism row erupted at the Pretoria High School for Girls following the discovery of a WhatsApp group in which a group of white pupils allegedly sent messages to each other with racial undertones.

This was followed by the revelation of an incident at Table View High School where a substitute teacher allegedly used the ‘k’ word during a history lesson and another incident at Pinelands High School involving a ‘slave auction’ of black learners by their coloured counterparts. Both those schools are in the Western Cape.

“The [department] unequivocally condemns any acts of racism and racial discrimination and will intensify its efforts, in collaboration with the South African Human Rights Commission, the Commission for Gender Equality and the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities, to promote awareness of constitutional rights, including the prohibition against hate crimes and hate speech, aimed at the prevention and combating of these offences.

“The [department] is engaging the Department of Basic Education and will be monitoring how these matters will be handled and eagerly awaits the outcome thereof,” the DJCOD said in a statement.

The department emphasised that there remains no place in South African society for the use of racist language and behaviour.

“Our courts, especially our designated Equality Courts have pronounced on the use of the derogatory k-word - there is no place for such in a constitutional democracy which seeks to foster unity in diversity. Indeed, there is no place for racism or any other form of related intolerance in our constitutional democracy, which is anchored on the supremacy of the Constitution. Such incidents perpetuate harmful racial discrimination, and are stark and painful reminders of our Apartheid past.

“This year South Africa marks 30 years of freedom and democracy since the country’s democratic elections in 1994. The advent of our constitutional democracy 30 years ago, ended decades of oppression under white minority rule, based on the racist ideology of black inferiority and white superiority, and ushered in a transition to a society “based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights”,” the department added.

The department said hate speech and hate crimes have been declared an offence following the operationalisation of the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act 16 of 2023.

This, notwithstanding the Constitutional imperatives on unfair discrimination and obligations of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, 2000.

“South Africa’s National Action Plan to Combat Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance [NAP] was approved by Cabinet in 2019. The NAP gives effect to South Africa’s constitutional and international obligations, thus signifying government's commitment to achieving the objectives of the NAP at the highest level.

“The [department], as the focal agency tasked by Cabinet to lead and coordinate the implementation of the NAP, in line with its constitutional mandate, unequivocally condemns all and any acts of discrimination, in whatever form they occur.

“It is of great concern that learners, almost all of whom were born in a country that is democratic and more inclusive, have to both experience racism and some still continue to hold such beliefs of racism, intolerance, hurtful and demeaning behaviour,” the DJCOD said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 09:27

414 views

2 August 2024

Work opportunities and training for unemployed people, says North West Premier

Location: News

Work opportunities and training for unemployed people, says North West Premier

Youth empowerment will be one of the apex priorities of the seventh administration, says North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi.

He announced on Friday that the provincial government was working towards implementing the Labour Activation Plan that will result in 27 000 work opportunities and training to unemployed people with the focus being the youth.

“Through the National Youth Service Fund, we will implement training and skills development opportunities that will benefit over 1 200 young people at the Departments of Public Works and Roads, Social Development, Human Settlement as well as Arts, Culture Sports, and Recreation,” he told the media.

Mokgosi was speaking during the Provincial Annual Media Day launch in Mahikeng.

Currently, he said, the administration is investigating a new model for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to ensure that this programme assists young people with various skills.

The Victor Thebe Sifora Provincial Bursary Scheme will also be resuscitated and that the grant will fund no less than 100 students for the 2025 academic year.

Service delivery

The Premier acknowledged that the province was confronted with many challenges and said they would work hard to “speedily” resolve them.

Mokgosi highlighted the Accelerated Service Delivery Programme - Thuntsha Lerole - which he believes has proven to be an important instrument in expediting the provision of services in municipalities.

“We are ramping up the programme with the implementation of phase four whose focus will be on accountability to allow members of the public to give feedback and report cases of bad or lack of service delivery.

“As mentioned during the address last week, the Executive Council will not hesitate to intervene in any municipality if the situation requires such intervention. There are promising signs of improvements in several interventions already being implemented across municipalities,” he explained.

The province was also working around the clock to create economic opportunities for its citizens as they attend to service delivery concerns.

Through the Special Economic Zone (SEZ), they have so far garnered investment commitments to the tune of R164 billion that will create over 5 000 jobs.

He said they will be rolling out three mega infrastructure projects in water, sanitation, and road infrastructure in the City of Matlosana, J.B Marks and Maquassi Hills local municipalities.

These projects will cost R19 billion and are expected to create over 60 000 work opportunities targeted at the youth and women.

In addition, through the Growth and Developmental Strategy (GDS), Mokgosi said they will initiate the North West Development Fund (NWDF) in partnership with the private sector.

“The setting up of the fund will be arranged in a way that will ensure good governance principles are adhered to whilst ensuring that there are as few impediments as possible to ensure seamless delivery of programmes and projects.”

He announced that the fund will help resuscitate the province’s ailing tourism sector particularly, provincial parks as well as the refurbishment of the George Dick Montshioa and Pilanesberg Airports.

Media Day

The Premier announced that a Media Day will be held annually after the Premier’s State of the Province Address (SOPA) to communicate developmental initiatives of the administration as well as interventions on various socio-economic challenges such as unemployment, poverty and income inequalities afflicting our communities.

His Office will also hold quarterly media sessions to report progress registered in attending to several challenges, remedial action plans and achievements.

“The media plays an important role in keeping our communities abreast of key government programmes that are primarily aimed at changing the lives of our people for the better.

“We affirm and fully support the independence of the media to hold government accountable as enshrined in our Constitution.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 12:10

281 views

2 August 2024

Chikunga reflects on 30 Years of Democracy as Women’s Month gets underway

Location: News

Chikunga reflects on 30 Years of Democracy as Women's Month gets underway

By Khanyisile Rasmeni

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has delivered a compelling address to mark the launch of National Women’s Month, which is being observed under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy towards women’s development”.

The launch took place at Tshedimosetso House in Pretoria on Thursday.

Chikunga said this year’s observance is not only a tribute to the strides made over the past three decades but also a moment for introspection and continued commitment to gender equality.

“August has long been a month of reflection and tribute to the invaluable roles women have played in the fight against discrimination and exploitation.”

The commemoration of Women’s Month serves as a platform to pay tribute to the role played by women in the decades of struggle against all forms of discrimination, subordination and exploitation.

The 30-Year Review Report underscores the progress achieved in women empowerment. Notably, women’s representation in Parliament increased from 28% in 1994 to 45% in 2019.

“Similarly, their presence in senior management roles rose from 20% in 2001 to 36% in 2021. Furthermore, as of 2017, women accounted for approximately 61.5% of university graduates, surpassing their male counterparts,” said the Minister.

READ | Cabinet approves 30-Year Review Report for publication

Despite these advancements, Chikunga emphasised that “while these are significant strides, a lot more still needs to be done”.

The year 2024 marks the 101st anniversary of women entering the legal profession in South Africa. Reflecting on this milestone, the International Association of Women Judges noted a dramatic shift from 1994, when the judiciary was overwhelmingly male and predominantly white.

“As of February 2023, 45% of judges are women, and the composition has diversified significantly. This transformation was further celebrated with the appointment of Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, the first South African woman to lead the Constitutional Court. Chief Justice Maya stands tall as an inspiration to all South Africans, especially women from all walks of life,” Chikunga remarked.

READ | President Ramaphosa appoints Justice Maya as next Chief Justice

In addition to these judicial achievements, Chikunga praised Tatjana Smith for winning South Africa’s first gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, showcasing the nation's growing prominence in global sports.

Gender-based violence and femicide

The Minister said the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) remains a critical focus. The National Strategic Plan on GBVF aims to rally societal support and intensify efforts against persistent violence.

Chikunga underlined the importance of a “whole-of-society and whole-of-government response”.

She used the occasion to ring the alarm on the rising trend of extortion and fraud targeting employed women.

“We alert South African women not to be victims of such extortion and fraud,” she advised.

The year 2024 also marks 70 years since the adoption of the Women’s Charter, a pivotal document in the struggle for women’s rights in South Africa. The Minister invoked the Charter’s call for the removal of discriminatory laws.

“We, the women of South Africa, hereby declare our aim of striving for the removal of all laws, regulations, conventions, and customs that discriminate against us as women.”

She said the voices of the women who gathered at the First World Conference on Women in 1975 must be echoed throughout the month of August.

“In the world outside, we are ignored. We are invisible, we are not important... We've got to change these attitudes toward us — smilingly, if necessary, angrily if necessary, and aggressively if necessary. Otherwise, there will be no such thing as true equality.” - SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 12:41

202 views

2 August 2024

Have your say on tax proposals

Location: News

Have your say on tax proposals

The National Treasury and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has published draft tax bills and draft regulations for 2024, for public comment.

The bills and draft regulations contain tax proposals made in the Budget Speech.

These proposals include the 2024 draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill (2024 draft TLAB), the 2024 draft Revenue Laws Amendment Bill (2024 draft RLAB), the 2024 draft Tax Administration Laws Amendment Bill (2024 draft TALAB), draft Regulations on the method for determining the VAT liability in respect of casino table games of chance, issued in terms of section 74(2) of the Value-Added Tax Act, 1991, draft Regulations on amendments to the Carbon Offset Regulations prescribing carbon offsets in terms of section 19(c) of the Carbon Tax Act, 2019, and draft Regulations on domestic reverse charge relating to valuable metal in terms of 74(2) of the Value-Added Tax Act.

The 2024 draft tax bills, the accompanying draft Explanatory Memoranda containing a comprehensive description of the proposed tax amendments contained in the 2024 draft TLAB, 2024 draft RLAB, draft TALAB, the draft Regulations on determining the VAT liability in respect of casino table games of chance, draft Regulations on domestic reverse charge, draft Regulations on electronic services and Carbon Offset Regulations, can be found on the National Treasury (www.treasury.gov.za) and SARS (www.sars.gov.za) websites.

“More general information underlying the changes in rates, thresholds or any other tax amendments can be found in the 2024 Budget Review, available on the National Treasury website.

“With respect to the 2024 RLAB published for comment on 21 February 2024 and public workshops held on 6 June 2024, National Treasury and SARS invite a second round of comments in writing on this revised 2024 draft RLAB,” the Ministry of Finance said on Thursday.

The public can forward written comments to the National Treasury’s tax policy depository at 2024AnnexCProp@treasury.gov.za and SARS at acollins@sars.gov.za by close of business on 16 August 2024.

National Treasury and SARS invites comments in writing on the 2024 draft TLAB, 2024 draft TALAB, the draft Regulations on determining the VAT liability in respect of casino table games of chance, draft Regulations on domestic reverse charge and draft Regulations on electronic services and Carbon Offset Regulations.

Written comments can be sent to the National Treasury’s tax policy depository at 2024AnnexCProp@treasury.gov.za and SARS at acollins@sars.gov.za by close of business on 31 August 2024. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 09:44

542 views

2 August 2024

Officials attacked at Mamelodi court

Location: News

Officials attacked at Mamelodi court

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, has strongly condemned an attack on a prosecutor and a stenographer at the Mamelodi Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

According to the department, a suspect convicted of common robbery and damage to property allegedly attacked the two with a broken bottle immediately after their verdict was handed down.

“We will not tolerate such acts of violence in our courts. The suspect will be prosecuted for committing this crime. It is essential that our courts remain free to fulfil their constitutionally mandated role in administering justice without fear of harm. Any assault on court officials undermines the authority of the state and will not be tolerated,” Simelane said of Thursday’s incident.

The Mamelodi Magistrates’ Court is in Pretoria, Gauteng.

The department added that an investigation into the incident is being conducted.

“As the police are currently investigating the matter, the department is unable to disclose further details at this time. However, senior management from the department has visited the Mamelodi Court and all staff affected by the incident will receive trauma counselling support.

“In response to this incident, the Minister has directed the department to urgently conduct a comprehensive security and risk assessment, identify any potential lapses and implement immediate measures to address any gaps,” the department concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 10:21

202 views

2 August 2024

MTN loses Special Tribunal application

Location: News

MTN loses Special Tribunal application

Telecommunications giant MTN has lost a Special Tribunal exception application in connection with the alleged irregular supply of mobile devices for COVID-19 screening to the Limpopo Department of Health.

This after the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) launched an investigation into the affairs of that department which – the unit insists – “revealed that MTN made an unsolicited proposal to supply the department with 10 000 cell phone devices intended for COVID-19 mass screenings” in that province.

“This proposal cost the department R10 million. This falls outside the prescripts of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). The Department of Health accepted the proposal and subsequent delivery of the devices.

“The SIU’s investigation also found that the former Head of the Department, Dr Thokozani Florence Mhlongo, as the accounting officer, allegedly exposed the department to a wasteful expenditure when she authorised the procurement and payment of 10 000 cell phones to the value of R10 million for Covid-19 household screening.

“The department could only manage to distribute 388 of the 10 000 cell phones between September 2020 and March 2021 and the cell phones were distributed without the required screening application,” the SIU said.

The corruption busting unit added that it has instituted civil action in the Special Tribunal “to review and set aside the contract and recover financial losses suffered by the Limpopo Department of Health”.

“So far, the SIU has successfully interdicted the pension payout of Dr Mhlongo after she resigned from her position as head of the department in the face of disciplinary action.

“The SIU is also empowered to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations related to acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence of criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action,” the unit said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 10:32

138 views

2 August 2024

Appeal for more organ donors

Location: News

Appeal for more organ donors

The Department of Health has appealed to citizens to sign up to become organ and tissue donors in a bid to improve someone’s quality of life or even save someone’s life, especially those who are very sick or dying from a life-threatening disease or organ failure.

“Organ donation is when organs such as the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys are removed from one person and transplanted into another person,” the department explained, adding that one donor can save up to seven lives and transform over 50 lives.

Meanwhile, tissue donation is when tissues in the body such as skin, corneas and bone are removed from one person and transplanted into another person.

It is estimated that over 2 500 people are on the active waiting list for organ and tissue donation, while others lose their lives while waiting to receive a lifesaving gift.

“Currently, organ donors are in very short supply because of limited knowledge amongst citizens,” the department said.

The department, in collaboration with various non-governmental organisations, said they will use the month of August as part of Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Month.

According to the department, anyone aged 18 years or older can become an organ or tissue donor without expecting financial reward, and subject themselves to certain medical conditions that require one to wait or be physically well.

“One can donate organs such as the kidney and liver lobe and continue to live a normal and healthy life because organs like the liver regenerate over time.”

However, it is illegal in South Africa and other parts of the world for anyone to sell or trade human organs or tissues as that can perpetuate organ and human trafficking.

“An organ transplant takes place in both government and private hospitals after an individual has been declared circulatory (heart stopped beating) or brain dead, but is still being supported by artificial life support.

“The tissue donation and retrieval can still take place several hours and even days after death, but consent from the loved ones must be given.”

Potential donors can go to their nearest public or private hospital to ask for assistance on the steps to follow for one to donate, alternatively, call the Organ Donor Foundation on 0800 22 66 11 or visit www.odf.org.za.

Those interested can also contact the SA Bone Marrow Registry at 021 447 8630 or the Centre for Tissue Engineering at Tshwane University of Technology at 012 349 3500 or visit www.tissuedonation.org.za. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 09:37

73 views

1 August 2024

Two men attacked by leopard at Air Force Base Hoedspruit

Location: News

Two men attacked by leopard at Air Force Base Hoedspruit

The South African Air Force (SAAF) has confirmed that there was a leopard attack at the Air Force Base (AFB) in Hoedspruit in Limpopo over the weekend.

According to BBC, a leopard attacked two men at a South African air force base that borders the Kruger National Park.

“One of the men, a uniformed air force member, was attacked while out for a run. The other, a civilian working at the base, encountered the leopard while on a walk,” the publication said, adding that the two were admitted to hospital with scratches but no major injuries.

The SAAF said the safety and well-being of their members remains a top priority and that they are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding these incidents.

“We take these matters seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety of all personnel and families stationed at the base.”

In addition, the air force said it was collaborating with wildlife experts and local authorities to assess the situation and implement appropriate measures to mitigate future risks.

“While we understand the concerns raised by this situation, we encourage all personnel to remain vigilant and adhere to safety protocols when engaging with the natural wildlife in the area.”

According to the SAAF, the Acting Officer Commanding AFB Hoedspruit, Colonel Enrico Gherbavaz, has since mobilised the base environmental team to mitigate further risks.

Immediate measures include summoning the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) to trace and monitor the leopard and contacting the Limpopo Department of Economic Development Environment and Tourism (LEDET) and other stakeholders to arrange for the leopard’s safe removal.

“Additionally, communications have been sent out to residents urging vigilance and avoiding solitary outdoor activities.”

The SAAF is working with Ingwe Leopard Research and wildlife veterinarians to ensure the leopard is safely relocated.

“The welfare and safety of the Drakensig community remain the utmost priority as the SAAF works with wildlife experts to resolve this situation.”

The SAAF said further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure a safe environment for everyone at AFB Hoedspruit.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 09:16

1381 views

1 August 2024

W Cape Grade R and transfer applications for 2025 open

Location: News

W Cape Grade R and transfer applications for 2025 open

Western Cape parents who wish to apply for Grade R or a school transfer for the 2025 school year can do so from today, 1 August 2024.

The on-time application window closes on 16 August 2024.

For admission to Grade R, a child must turn six years old in the year that the child starts the grade.

In addition, transfer applications for Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 and 12 are to be submitted at the school to which the parent or caregiver wishes to apply or their nearest Western Cape Education Department (WCED) office.

This applies to school transfer requests for learners already attending school, applying for Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 to 12.

“Please note that schools can only capture applications for their own institution, but district officials can capture applications for multiple schools,” the provincial department explained.

According to the department, parents or caregivers will be required to fill out the WCED application form, which can also be downloaded from the department’s website, to submit to schools or the district office from today.

“Parents can drop off the application form and supporting documents at the school directly. They can also contact the school for details on electronic submissions on the official WCED form only.”

Parents who have not registered on the online system previously will first need to register on the website and once completed, they can then proceed to the application.

With regards to Grades 1 and 8 applications, the department said schools are currently finalising their admission lists, and confirming placements for children on their waiting lists.

“This process is ongoing. We do, however, appeal to all parents and caregivers who have not yet applied for Grade 1 and Grade 8 for the 2025 school year, to do so immediately.”

This can be done through contacting their district office or calling 0861 819 919 for more information.
Applications can be submitted online at https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/admissions.

Parents applying online from Grade R and transfers will need supporting documents such as an immunisation card, identity document (ID), birth certificate, passport, study permit, and proof of address or police affidavit. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 10:47

511 views

1 August 2024

SA condemns assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh

Location: News

SA condemns assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has condemned the “targeted” assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the political leader of Hamas, who was killed by an airstrike in Tehran in the early hours of Wednesday.

According to reports, Haniyeh was killed while attending the inauguration of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Iran’s capital, Tehran.

One of Haniyeh’s bodyguards was also killed, according to reports.

“The government expresses its heartfelt condolences to the Haniyeh family as well as to the leadership and people of Palestine,” the department said in a statement.

“South Africa is concerned that the assassination of Haniyeh and the continuous targeting of civilians in Gaza will further spiral the already tense situation in the entire region.”

South Africa has since called for a “thorough” investigation to be conducted and called on all parties to exercise the utmost restraint to avoid any acts that would escalate tensions in the particularly fragile region.

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, stressed that such acts of extrajudicial killings violate international law and the principles of human rights, undermining global efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East.

“No country is above the law and all nations must respect international law, particularly the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

“Any form of extrajudicial killing is a blatant violation of these principles and extra-judicial killings of this nature have a destabilising effect. It is crucial that the perpetrators of such actions must be brought to justice,” Lamola added.

The department said the assassination of Haniyeh occurred in the context of the nine-month onslaught in Gaza where the ongoing bombardment by Israel has resulted in thousands of civilian casualties, almost half of which are children, and created an “unspeakable man-made humanitarian catastrophe”.

“Haniyeh was an integral member of the negotiating team, working with other countries to secure a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire and bring the war to Gaza to an end.”

South Africa reiterated its view that the international community must act immediately to end the genocide in Gaza, impunity, end the aggression meted out against Palestinians and the illegal occupation by Israel.

“It is our collective human duty to call for a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire. Nothing can justify the deliberate killings and injuring of civilians as an entire population endures destruction at a scale and speed without parallel in recent history.

“Continuing Israeli occupation, destruction of infrastructure, collective punishment, and extrajudicial assassinations would make the realisation of a peaceful solution in the Middle East much more difficult to achieve,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 11:14

212 views

1 August 2024

SA commemorates Women’s Month

Location: News

SA commemorates Women's Month

Minister for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, says Women’s Month is an opportunity to pay tribute to the role played by women in the decades of struggle against all forms of discrimination, subordination and exploitation.

“We also commemorate Women’s Month in order to celebrate how far we have come; the journeys traversed and victories attained by the women of our country in the three decades of our democracy,” Chikunga said.

Addressing the media launch of the 2024 Women’s Month, Chikunga said this is the time for the country to reflect on its missteps, with the aim of correcting them.

“The 30-Year Review Report shines the spotlight on some of the commendable progress achieved in ensuring gender equality and social mobility,” Chikunga said.

The representation of women in senior management positions in the private and government workforce has increased from 20% in 2001 to 36% in 2021, the Minister highlighted.

“At our universities, as of 2017, the share of female graduates was about 61.5% compared to males at about 38.5%.

“At both the undergraduate and postgraduate level, women in South African public universities have been in the majority. While these are significant strides, a lot more still needs to be done,” the minister said.

The Minister said the year 2024 marks 101 years since women were allowed to enter the legal profession as practitioners.

“We have every reason to be proud of this transformative achievement. On that note, on behalf of all women in South Africa and the continent, we wish to congratulate Chief Justice Designate Justice Mandisa Maya.

“This is a monumental achievement for the people of South Africa in pursuit for justice. Chief Justice Maya stands tall as an inspiration to all South Africans, especially women from all walks of life,” Chikunga said.

Chikunga also congratulated Tatjana Smith, who won South Africa’s first gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

READ | Tatjana Smith glitters at Paris Olympics

“We wish Tatjana and the entire South African Team the best of luck for the remainder of the tournament,” Chikunga said.

Chikunga also paid tribute to the first cohort of Solar Mamas, who are young South African women, who recently completed their initial training in India.

“The Solar Mama Project aims to cultivate emerging industrialists through Infant Industries Development, Product Development, Market Access and Expansion to domestic, regional and global value chains and networking.

“Through our Solar Mamas Initiative, we are expanding the nurturing of emerging industrialists in the designing, manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of renewable energy components by ordinary young South African women.

“This will continue to be our flagship project after reconceptualization, taking into consideration lessons learnt from the first cohort. We congratulate this group of 22 young women from the Provinces of Limpopo, North West and Free State,” Chikunga said.

Chikunga said the year 2024 is significant as it marks several milestones in the struggle for the emancipation of women and their pursuit for the right to self-determination and self-actualization in all areas of human development.

“Firstly, 2024 marks 70 years since the adoption of the Women’s Charter, a declaration of intent by the Federation of South African Women (FEDSAW) which clearly defined the rights and privileges for women by women in South Africa,” the Minister said.

“Secondly, alongside our democratic dispensation, 2024 also marks 30 Years since the adoption of the Women’s Charter for Effective Equality adopted by the National Women’s Coalition Structures in 1994,” the Minister said.

This year’s Women’s Month campaign will take stock of progress made on socio-economic empowerment of women since the advent of democracy and indicate the achievements of the Women Charter.

The 2024 Women’s Month will be commemorated under the theme: ‘Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women’s Development.' – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 11:54

449 views

1 August 2024

Police warn criminals against resisting arrest

Location: News

Police warn criminals against resisting arrest

As police continue to crackdown on violent and serious crime, South African Police Service (SAPS) National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has urged criminals to surrender themselves when called to do so by police.

Providing an update on the countrywide police operations during a media briefing in Johannesburg on Thursday, the National Commissioner warned criminals that police will continue to use force that is proportional to the threat when they are defending themselves and the communities they serve.

He was addressing concerns expressed by ordinary citizens and experts within the field of policing in relation to the number of suspects that have been shot and killed by police in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in recent months.

“It is important to clarify that, our mandate as the SAPS is to bring perpetrators to justice by arresting them, but quite often in pursuit of arresting these often dangerous and heavily armed criminals, our police officers are more than often met with heavy gunfire and that leaves our officers with no option but to defend themselves and the communities that they serve.

“On Tuesday evening, our members in KZN were tracing suspects who were linked to and wanted in at least 13 cases of business robbery and car hijacking in the Cator Manor and Durban Central Policing Precinct when they were met with gunfire.

“Five suspects were fatally wounded and fortunately no police officer was wounded in the attack. Just last week, KZN police shot and killed nine suspects in various incidents. In all these incidents, police were met with gunfire and various kinds of high calibre firearms were seized which include automatic rifles,” he said.

All these suspects were wanted in connection with serious and violent crimes, including murders and ATM bombings.

At the incident in Kwadlangezwa in Empangeni, the three suspects that succumbed to their injuries were wanted and linked in connection with at least ten cases of murder in the province.

“It is on this note that we urge criminals to surrender themselves when called to do so by police…. we will continue to use force that is proportional to the threat,” Masemola said.

As part of ongoing operations on the ground, police have secured the arrest of 766 237 suspects for various crimes.

These include 161 752 wanted suspects for priority crimes, including murder, cash-in-transit armed robberies, sexual offences, rape, car hijacking and firearm related offences.

Police visibility

The National Commissioner emphasised that heightening and enhancing police visibility as a form of a deterrent to crime is at the top of the SAPS agenda.

“Our ears remain on the ground, and we are well aware that our communities want to see more police officers on the ground. This is why we have recruited and trained 20 000 police officers in two years, who are already serving and protecting communities at grassroots level of policing.

“All these members have capacitated our police stations and various specialised units, including crime intelligence and the detective environment, where capacity is much needed,” he said.

Masemola announced that there are currently 4 500 recruits in training and the remaining 5 500 recruits will commence with training in January 2025.

“Through collaboration with key stakeholders in the fight against crime which includes various government departments and entities, it is our collaboration with private security as our eyes and ears on the ground that is proving to be effective and beneficial. Through our E2 project with private security, we have been able to share resources and intercept criminals jointly, through working together,” he said.

Investigation on 95 Libyan nationals

Police are continuing with investigations into 95 Libyan nationals who are alleged to have been receiving training at an illegal military training camp in White River, Mpumalanga.

The Libyan nationals allegedly entered the country with visas that were acquired through misrepresentation in Tunis, Tunisia.

“The focus is on who provided the nationals with Visa’s? And why did they opt to receive their training in South Africa As well as who funded their training and for what purpose?” the National Commissioner said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 12:47

298 views

1 August 2024

PRASA introduces new modern trains in Cape Town

Location: News

PRASA introduces new modern trains in Cape Town

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has announced the introduction of the new blue and white modern Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) on the Central Line, along with the extension of the service from Nyanga to Mandalay station in the Western Cape.

This marks a significant milestone as this is the first time PRASA deploys the “People’s Train” on this corridor, following the completion of essential electrical and perway infrastructure between Nyanga and Nolungile.

Communities along the Central Line, now join many who have enjoyed the service using the new high-tech modern trains in other corridors. These state-of-the-art trains are equipped with advanced features such as automated doors, CCTV cameras, and air-conditioning, ensuring a comfortable and secure trip for all passengers.

“In addition to the new trains, the completion of signalling from Langa to Mutual Line marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance the safety and reliability of our services. Work to re-signal the rest of the Central corridor continues. This modern signaling system will not only improve the frequency and punctuality of our trains but will also reduce delays and congestion,” PRASA said on Thursday.

READ | PRASA makes steady progress in returning passenger trains

The rollout of the new trains and the advanced signalling system shows the agency’s commitment to revitalising and modernising commuter rail services.

“This important development in the region ensures we offer a safe, efficient, and dignified service to the 40% of Cape Town's commuters who rely on this key route. Extending the service on the Central Line to Mandalay station is expected to bring positive socio-economic benefits to the communities of Langa, Nyanga, Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain, and other areas along the line.

“This notable development builds on PRASA’s recent achievements, including the reopening of 31 out of 40 commuter rail corridors and the refurbishment of 263 out of 463 stations,” PRASA said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 13:21

240 views

1 August 2024

Minister welcomes decrease in rhino poaching stats

Location: News

Minister welcomes decrease in rhino poaching stats

South Africa has recorded a downward trend in rhino poaching in the last two months of this year.

“A significant drop was noted during May and June this year with national losses reported at 21 and 22 respectively. May and June of 2023 were recorded at 42 and 34,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said on Thursday.

This reduced loss is thought to be attributable to the dehorning of rhino populations in KwaZulu-Natal and specifically in the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park where over 1 000 rhinos have been dehorned since April 2024.

“During the first 6 months of 2024, 229 rhinos were poached in South Africa (compared to 231 for the same reporting period in 2023). Of those rhino poached, 191 were killed on state properties and 38 on privately owned parks/reserves/farms.

“The Kruger National Park (KNP) lost 45 rhinos to poaching from January to June 2024 compared to 42 during the same reporting period in 2023.

“KNP continues to implement its Rhino Conservation Plan which amongst others, focuses on guarding and protecting rhinos in the core rhino areas, the use of appropriate technologies, dehorning of rhino and implementing innovative biological management in these areas,” the Minister said.

The KNP Integrity Management Plan is being implemented to address staff integrity, which also focuses on other initiatives such as field ranger selection and training, polygraph testing, wellness, financial literacy training and skills development programmes.

“With regard to rhino population numbers, at the end of 2023, South Africa reported 16 056 rhinos comprising 2 065 black and 13 991 white rhinos. These figures compare with figures estimated for the end of 2021 when there were 2 056 black and 12 968 white rhinos in the country.

“South Africa had 1,032 more rhinos in 2023 than what there were in 2021 despite the poaching – in 2022 and 2023, 2.9% and 3.2% of South Africa’s rhinos respectively were poached. These were lower than the threshold of 3.5% beyond which rhino numbers will decline,” George said.

Implementation of the Year 1 targets of the Implementation Plan of the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking (NISCWT) is well under way and cooperation between all stakeholders including government and the private sector is being promoted.

The implementation of NISCWT is overseen by the NATJOINTS Priority Committee on Wildlife Trafficking.

“During the reporting period, over 60 suspects have been arrested and 20 heavy calibre firearms recovered in relation to rhino poaching and rhino horn trafficking.

“Successful joint operations and investigations between SAPS Stock Theft & Endangered Species Unit, Environmental Management Inspectors (EMIs) from national and provincial conservation agencies and departments, the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI) and private security teams are to be commended for their sustained effort,” the Minister said.

The following successful convictions were received in the past six months:
• Two rhino horn traffickers were sentenced to 18 years imprisonment of which six years imprisonment was suspended for five years in the Ermelo regional court on 1 July 2024. This came after the two traffickers were arrested in December 2022 for the possession of four rhino horns.

• On appeal, the conviction and sentence of three Botswana Nationals were confirmed. They entered the country illegally and were convicted on one count of murder, after one of their accomplices was killed during a confrontation on the farm, the illegal possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition, illegally entering the country and hunting a rhino without a permit and sentenced to 36 years imprisonment, effectively to serve 25 years imprisonment.

• In the Skukuza court, an accused was sentenced to 35 years imprisonment on charges of trespassing, hunting of one rhino, possession of a prohibited firearm, possession of an unlicenced firearm and ammunition, possession of a dangerous weapon and conspiracy to commit an offence. In another case the accused was sentenced to 26 years imprisonment on similar charges.

• In the Free State, three accused were convicted on conspiracy to hunt a rhino and was sentenced to five years direct imprisonment. In addition, a Silver Audi A4 to the value of R100 000, which was used as an instrument to the offence, was forfeited to the State.

• A courier on her way to Malaysia was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport. After she booked her suitcases in at the airport, an operator at the scanner section identified that the suitcases contained 12 rhino horns. An Environmental Management Inspector testified that the activities of the courier cannot be evaluated in isolation of the fact that the horns were linked through DNA to 3 poaching crime scenes, that the consignment was part of the organised crime value chain and that the court needs to take into account the human, conservation and socio-economic impacts of these crimes. The accused was convicted and sentenced to five years direct imprisonment. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 13:51

59 views

1 August 2024

Police record major successes in breaking syndicates, gangs

Location: News

Police record major successes in breaking syndicates, gangs

With recent successes in arresting members of organised criminal syndicates and gangs, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has demonstrated its commitment and dedication to fighting serious and violent crimes.

This is according to SAPS National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, who briefed the media on Thursday.

“We are responding decisively to the war declared by criminals and we remain resolute in our efforts to fight crime and anyone who threatens the safety and security of law abiding citizens and have thus adopted an aggressive approach in ensuring that we stamp the authority of the state,” Masemola said in Johannesburg.

Providing an update on the countrywide police operations, Masemola said the recent successes in crime fighting shows that police are tightening their grip on serious and violent crime, thus putting them one step ahead of criminals.

“Through our high density operations that sees the Provincial Commissioner of each province actively taking part and leading operations on the ground, we have been able to secure the arrest of 766 237 suspects for various crimes.

“These include 161 752 wanted suspects for priority crimes, including murder, cash-in-transit armed robberies, sexual offences, rape, car hijacking and firearm-related offences.

“We have established and beefed up cash-in-transit task teams, particularly in the Eastern Cape, where a number of them have been recorded in the month of July. In the past month alone, 13 cash in transit robbers were arrested in the province while six suspects were fatally wounded during confrontation with police,” Masemola said.

The police have also registered a breakthrough with the arrest of at least ten suspects linked to ATM bombings in Gauteng.

Eight of the suspects were intercepted in Katlehong, Thokoza, and Soweto in Gauteng while another two were traced to Senekal in the Free State.

“These arrests were effected with the assistance of our partners in the banking sector and key stakeholders in the fight against crime. These suspects are being linked to more than 20 ATM bombings that took place in Soweto and the East Rand,” he said.

Furthermore, a gang of 44 suspects were intercepted by Gauteng police three weeks ago at a liquor warehouse in Kempton Park.

“The suspects were caught in the act of loading alcohol worth R15 million into four different trucks. The suspects have already appeared before the Kempton Park Magistrate Court on a charge of business robbery,” the National Commissioner said.

Drug busts

In the last two weeks, a clandestine drug lab worth R2 billion was shut down in Limpopo where two Mexican nationals are among the five suspects arrested.

“In the Western Cape, R252 million worth of cocaine was seized at a roadblock in Stillbaai. A Russian national is among two suspects arrested in this case. In the same week, police also seized R40 million worth of dagga in Magaliesburg here in Gauteng.

“Mpumalanga has also registered a number of successes in relation to major drug busts. Between May and June this year, R4 million worth of dagga, R4 million worth of cocaine and R4 million worth of Crystal meth was seized in different parts of the province, including Nelspruit and Komatipoort.

“We have destroyed large quantities of drugs worth R2 billion in 12 months. These include cocaine, crystal meth and unregistered medicines. Through Operation Shanela, 21 161 criminals were arrested for dealing in drugs while 64 351 were arrested for being in possession of drugs,” the National Commissioner said.

The ongoing gang related violence in the Eastern and Western Cape and Gauteng continues to receive priority with the deployment of the Anti Gang Unit and specialised units in identified hotspots.

“Dedicated interventions are continuing and several gang leaders and members have been arrested in the past six months. These include 64 gang members arrested in Westbury. Thirty-four of them belong to the Fast gang group that were operating in Westbury, Langlaagte and Eldorado Park. During this period, 36 gang members from the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Kwazulu-Natal and Limpopo were convicted to a collective 350 year’s imprisonment,” he said.

In the last seven days, 106 firearms were confiscated during operations across the country. Forty of these firearms were seized in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. Of the 106 firearms, 90 are hand guns, eight are homemade firearms, seven are rifles while one shotgun was seized.

In two years, more than 20 000 firearms have been seized from all corners of the country.

“In the Western Cape where we experience a lot of firearm related gang violence, 3100 firearms have been confiscated to date while in Gauteng, 673 firearms have been seized during tracing operations during a 12 month period,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 12:16

79 views

1 August 2024

Just Energy Transition must not leave communities behind – Ramokgopa

Location: News

Just Energy Transition must not leave communities behind - Ramokgopa

Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has insisted that as South Africa continues to transition from a carbon intensive economy to a green economy, communities must be informed, consulted and educated on what the transition will mean to them.

The minister was delivering an address at the Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW) seminar on South Africa’s Just Energy Transition and the Future of Work in Tshwane.

Ramokgopa emphasised the importance of consultations with and education of communities as South Africa transitions and, by implication, some coal fired power stations wind down operations.

“We need to answer that question by what we mean by [Just Energy Transition]. It’s also about the democratisation of the conversation. It’s important that when you move into [communities] you don’t undermine the agency and the ability of people in those areas to comprehend and understand the implications of the decisions that you want to take.

“You don’t suggest that you have the authority to decide on their behalf. We don’t have that authority. It’s important that they get to be educated [on] the impact of not transitioning to the environment, to their own health, what it means and the impact of doing that suddenly.

“And they must contribute to the generation of how best to do that Just Transition and don’t treat those people as unthinking [and] as people who don’t have a view. As we move this just transition, we [must] take communities with us,” he said.

The minister highlighted that South Africa’s Just Energy Transition is expected to be an expensive process which – he added – should be subsidised by developed nations who are responsible for the vast majority of greenhouse gases causing climate change.

“There’s a ticket that’s assigned to the transition…the financing ticket. We are talking about R1.6 trillion over a period of five years. The South African balance sheet is very weak; it will not be able to carry this. So you need to design bespoke financing instruments…to help us to go this route.

“But also more significantly, what is the contribution of the developed world? Those parties that are largely responsible for the kind of damage that we are seeing to the environment. Africa in total contributes about 4% to the greenhouse gas emissions. We can’t carry the same responsibility. The industrialised and developed north have got both a moral and ethical duty to ensure that they are able to finance this transition,” he said.

Turning to South Africa’s renewable energy sector, Ramokgopa reiterated President Cyril Ramaphosa’s stance that the sector is undergoing a revolution that will create jobs and growth.

“Without any hesitation, renewables are going to see the biggest exponential growth of any form of fuel in the energy mix. We are tilting towards green forms of energy. Nuclear, solar PV, hydro and wind are going to be the mainstay of this transition. Of course, we do all of these things at the pace and scale that we can afford.

“We know that on solar PV and wind, these are some of the cheapest forms of generation. So we are going that route with its own weaknesses that this is not dispatchable power. So it’s not available all the time. It’s important that we do this configuration of what constitutes the various forms of fuel sources…understanding that the backbone of our energy generation will still be baseload,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 10:31

91 views

1 August 2024

Gauteng residents urged to use water sparingly

Location: News

Gauteng residents urged to use water sparingly

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is pleading with residents in Gauteng to practice and maintain water conservation efforts, despite the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS) holding steady.

According to the DWS, this week, the Vaal Dam, which forms a key part of the IVRS, is currently at 49.7%, down from 50.5% the previous week.

“Comparatively, during the equivalent period last year, the dam boasted a higher capacity of 90.1%.”

However, the IVRS is currently stable at 81.0%, a drop from last week’s 81.5%.

Last year at this time, the department said, it was at a “more satisfactory” 96.0%.

“This high level of the IVRS will ensure a sustainable supply of water to Gauteng residents.”

Meanwhile, the water level at Grootdraai Dam experienced a slight decrease from 85.3% to 84.4% this week, compared to its capacity of 91.9% last year.

Bloemhof Dam, a significant reservoir, also experienced a minor decrease in water levels from 91.1% to 90.6% this week.

“During the corresponding period last year, the dam maintained a steady level at 102%.”

Sterkfontein Dam is said to be the dam which maintained the same level as last week at 98.5% this week. The dam recorded a higher capacity of 100.1% last year.

In addition, the Mohale and Katse dams in Lesotho are currently in good condition, despite the water levels at Katse Dam experiencing a slight decline this week.

The water level at Katse Dam dropped from 75.9% last week to 74.5% currently, a decline from the 91.9% level recorded during the same period last year.

On the contrary, Mohale Dam’s water level has not changed, remaining steady at 100.8%. Last year, Mohale Dam registered a slightly lower capacity of 100.7%.

“Despite a modest decrease in water levels in several essential water sources, the Department of Water and Sanitation consistently advises Gauteng residents to exercise prudence in their water utilisation.

“Furthermore, the department urges municipalities to address water leaks within the province.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 09:58

200 views