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SIU to probe National Skills Fund, DPWI, among others
SIU to probe National Skills Fund, DPWI, among others
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed five proclamations - two new and three amendments - authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of the National Skills Fund and the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.
In addition, the President has amended existing proclamations to expand the scope of investigations into the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Eskom, PetroSA, Transnet, South African Airways (SAA), the Department of Human Settlements, Alexkor, and the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
In a statement on Friday, the SIU said these investigations aim to recover financial losses suffered by the State.
National Skills Fund
“Proclamation 253 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration, improper or unlawful conduct by officials or employees of the Department of Higher Education and Training, and the possible mismanagement of funds allocated to the National Skills Fund (NSF),” the SIU said.
The investigation will focus on procurement and contracting for the implementation of skills development programmes, training projects, and the appointment of implementing agents for the following projects:
- Yikhonolakho Woman and Youth Primary Co-operative Limited (NSF 16/1/3/21)
- Dithipe Development Institute (Pty) Limited
- Dzunde Farming Co-operative Limited – Rural Development
- Dual System Apprenticeship Pilot Project – Port Elizabeth TVET College (NSF10/3/8/2/9)
- Rubicon Communication CC
- Centre for Education Policy Development (Fruitless & Wasteful Expenditure) — NSF 16/2/1/2 & NSF 10/4/4/3
- Emanzini Staffing Solutions (Pty) Limited (NSF16/1/4/55 and/or 2016-NSFWIL — 0174)
- ADA Holdings (NSF16/1/4/5, Ingewe TVET College — NSF/16/3/2/2 & Lusikisiki/ Bizana — NSF/16/1/2/3)
- Ekurhuleni West TVET College (NSF16/1/2/39)
- Passionate about People (Pty) Limited (NSF/16/1/3/12&16).
Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure by the NSF or the department.
The scope of the investigation includes any unlawful or improper conduct by suppliers, service providers, and other involved parties, occurring between 1 January 2013 and 28 March 2025, or related matters before or after this period.
National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure
Proclamation 256 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of maladministration in the affairs of the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) relating to the appointment of travel agents in 2017 for the rendering of travel agency services, including flights, accommodation, and vehicle hire.
“The investigation will determine whether these appointments and related payments were conducted in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective; contrary to applicable legislation; or inconsistent with Treasury instructions, departmental manuals, policies, procedures, or other applicable prescripts.
“The SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by the Department and any unlawful or improper conduct by officials, employees, service providers, or any other parties involved in the procurement of these services,” the SIU said.
The SIU added that the scope of the investigation includes any unlawful or improper conduct by suppliers, service providers, and other involved parties, occurring between 1 March 2017 and 28 March 2025, or related matters before or after this period.
Amendment of Proclamation No. R.206 of 2024
Proclamation 252 of 2025 amends Proclamation R.206 of 2024 to reflect the full scope of the SIU’s investigation into several state institutions.
The amendment corrects and clarifies the entities under investigation, which include the South African Broadcasting Corporation SOC Limited (SABC), Eskom Holdings SOC Limited, the Petroleum Oil and Gas Corporation of South Africa SOC Limited (PetroSA), Transnet SOC Limited, South African Airways SOC Limited (SAA), and the National Department of Human Settlements (formerly known as the National Department of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation).
The amendment substitutes the heading and paragraph 1 of the original Proclamation to formally add South African Airways as a state institution which will be subjected to an investigation of allegations of serious maladministration, corruption, and unlawful conduct in the affairs of these state institutions.
Amendment of Alexkor investigation to include additional institutions and broader scope
Proclamation 254 of 2025 amends Proclamation R.45 of 2021 to broaden the scope of the Special Investigating Unit’s (SIU) investigation beyond Alexkor SOC Limited.
The amendment now includes the Alexkor Richtersveld Mining Company Pooling and Sharing Joint Venture and the State Diamond Trader—collectively referred to as “the Institutions.” The amendment updates several references throughout the original Proclamation to reflect this expanded scope.
“The amended Proclamation authorises the SIU to investigate the procurement of and contracting for goods or services by or on behalf of the Institutions in relation to the marketing, valuation, sale (including decisions not to buy), and beneficiation of diamonds, and any income generated or lost, or payments made in respect thereof.
“The investigation will consider whether such conduct was contrary to applicable legislation, Treasury instructions, or the Institutions’ own policies and procedures,” the SIU said.
The SIU will also probe serious maladministration in the affairs of Alexkor SOC Limited in respect of contracts concluded with, and fees paid to, Regiments Capital (Pty) Limited.
The SIU will also investigate any related unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by the Institutions, as well as fraudulent, irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by Board members, officials, employees, agents, service providers, traders, auctioneers, bidders, or buyers—particularly where such conduct resulted in undue benefit or concealed interests.
In addition, the Proclamation authorises the SIU to probe serious maladministration in the affairs of the institutions in respect of agreements or contracts with service providers and other diamond trade actors and specifically empowers the SIU to investigate contracts concluded with and fees paid to Regiments Capital (Pty) Limited by Alexkor SOC Limited.
The amended scope covers conduct occurring between 1 January 2014 (previously 1 October 2016) and the date of publication of this Proclamation and includes related matters outside this period if they are relevant to the investigation.
“Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.”
In accordance with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during these investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
The SIU is also empowered to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to recover financial losses to the State resulting from acts of corruption, fraud or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 03/30/2025 - 13:09
166 views
Africa Tech Festival Announces Leadership Council for 2025
Africa Tech Festival (www.AfricaTechFestival.com), the continent's leading platform for technology innovation and connectivity, is proud to announce the esteemed members of its Leadership Council for 2025. Comprising influential leaders from across Africa's technology, business, and investment sectors, the Leadership Council will play a pivotal role in shaping the festival's agenda, ensuring it remains at the forefront of industry trends, policy discussions, and digital transformation.
The Africa Tech Festival 2025 Leadership Council comprises of:
- Brelotte Ba, Deputy CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa, Orange
- Antoinette Kwofie, Chief Financial Officer, MTN Ghana
- Bunmi Adeleye, Chief Strategy Officer, Retail Supermarkets Nigeria (Shoprite Nigeria)
- Charles Murito, Regional Director, Government Affairs & Public Affairs, Sub-Saharan Africa, Google
- Dido wa Kalonji, Chief Information Officer, First National Bank – Eswatini
- Faith Burn, Chief Information Officer, Eskom
- Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman, APO Group
- Nina Triantis, Global Head Telecoms, Media and Technology, Client Coverage, Corporate and Investment Banking, Standard Bank
- Nomsa Chabeli, Group CEO, SABC
- Mary Mahuma, Chief Information Officer, Southern Africa, Philip Morris
- Philip Besiimire, CEO, Vodacom Tanzania
- President Ntuli, Managing Director, South Africa, Hewlett Packard Enterprise
- Ravi Bhat, Chief Technology and Solutions Officer, Microsoft Africa
- Ayanda Peta, Chief Information Security Officer, African Rainbow Minerals
- Richard Cazalet, Executive: Strategy and Transformation, Telkom SA
- Shamiela Letsoalo, Director: Public Affairs, Naspers Limited
Bringing together a wealth of expertise, the Leadership Council will provide strategic guidance to ensure Africa Tech Festival continues to address the most pressing issues and opportunities within Africa's digital economy. Their insights will help drive meaningful discussions on connectivity, AI, fintech, cybersecurity, cloud, and the future of digital infrastructure across Africa.
“Africa Tech Festival serves as a platform for connection, collaboration, and innovation across the continent,” said James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival. “With the guidance of our Leadership Council, we will continue to curate an event that drives impactful conversations, supports industry growth, and fosters Africa's position as a global technology leader.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.
Media Contact:
Tori Wilson
Senior Marketing Manager
tori.wilson@informa.com
About Africa Tech Festival 2025:
Now in its 28th edition, Africa Tech Festival 2025 will take place from 11 to 13 November 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), bringing together over 15,000 technology leaders, policymakers, investors, startups, and visionaries. The festival encompasses four anchor events:
- AfricaCom – The continent's largest telecoms and connectivity event
- AfricaTech – The hub for technology, innovation, and enterprise growth
- AfricaIgnite – Driving growth and impact in Africa's startup ecosystem
- The AI Summit Cape Town – Where commercial AI comes to life
With over 500 speakers, 300 exhibitors, and multiple networking opportunities, Africa Tech Festival remains the largest and most influential tech event on the continent.
For more information about Africa Tech Festival 2025 and its Leadership Council, visit www.AfricaTechFestival.com.
Final Showdown: Clash of Top Boys and Girls Talent in Schools SA20 National Finals
All eyes will be on the Tuks cricket fields in Pretoria as the inaugural Schools SA20 National Champions are crowned...
Media called to enter 2025 SADC Media Awards competition
Media called to enter 2025 SADC Media Awards competition
South African journalists/media have been invited to submit their entries for the 2025 SADC Media Awards competition.
The SADC Media Awards competition is open to journalists from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Member States.
The awards were established in 1996 to recognise best media work in disseminating information on SADC to support the process of regional co-operation and integration in the region.
To promote regional integration and cooperation, the awards aim to recognise excellence in journalism in the area of print, photo, television, radio as well as to encourage media practitioners in member states to cover issues pertaining to the region.
The first prize winners will receive their prizes and certificates on the margins of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government that will take place in August 2025.
The first prize winner in each category receives US$2500 and the runner-up receives US$1000.
Journalists who wish to enter the competition can access more information about the competition from the www.gcis.gov.za website.
The entry forms can be found at https://lnkd.in/dN9BrxAc.
The rules of the 2025 competition can be accessed at https://lnkd.in/drPn2KBs.
Entries need to be posted or delivered to the MDDA or any GCIS offices nationwide marked:
MDDA Offices or GCIS Offices
SADC Media Awards Entry SADC Media Awards Entry
GSM Building Government Communications (GCIS)
SABC Auckland Park Campus 1035 Francis Baard Street
Johannesburg Hatfield, Pretoria
2006 0028
All entries must be submitted no later than 28 February 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 02/24/2025 - 09:52
150 views
Call to enter SADC Media Awards competition
Call to enter SADC Media Awards competition
South African journalists are invited to submit their entries for the 2025 Southern African Development Community (SADC) Media Awards competition before the deadline next month.
The competition is open to journalists from the SADC Member States.
“The SADC Media Awards were established in 1996 to recognise best media work in disseminating information on SADC to support the process of regional co-operation and integration in the region.
“To promote regional integration and cooperation (cross-border issues), the awards aim to recognise excellence in journalism in the area of print, photo, television, radio as well as to encourage media practitioners in member states to cover issues pertaining to the region,” the Government Communications (GCIS) said on Tuesday.
The first prize winners will receive their prizes and certificates on the margins of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government that will take place in August 2025.
The first prize winner in each category receives US$2,500 and the runner-up receives US$1000.
Journalists who wish to enter the competition can access more information about the competition from the www.gcis.gov.za website.
Entry forms can be accessed at https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADCEntryform2025.doc.
Rules of the 2025 competition can be accessed at https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADC2025RulesCompetition.pdf.
Entries need to be posted or delivered to MDDA or any GCIS offices nationwide marked:
MDDA Offices GCIS Offices
SADC Media Awards Entry or SADC Media Awards Entry
GSM Building Government Communications (GCIS)
SABC Auckland Park Campus 1035 Francis Baard Street
Johannesburg Hatfield, Pretoria
2006 0028
All entries must be submitted no later than 28 February 2025. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:23
201 views
Gauteng Premier to visit Eldorado Park
Gauteng Premier to visit Eldorado Park
Acting Gauteng Premier Lebogang Maile will visit Eldorado Park on Saturday following the murder of a female traffic warden.
"I am deeply disturbed by the senseless killing of our dedicated Traffic Warden. As the Gauteng Provincial Government, we condemn all forms of violence, especially against women,” said the Acting Premier ahead of his visit.
The visit comes after the tragic murder of the warden who was allegedly killed by her boyfriend who is a police officer.
“We will work tirelessly to ensure justice is served and support is provided to the affected family and community,” he said.
Maile is set to visit the Eldorado Park Police station before proceeding to visit the family of the murdered warden. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 12/27/2024 - 13:15
73 views
Sexual Harassment Complaint Against Eastern Cape Judge President Set for January
But the public will not have access to all the evidence
Media urged to submit entries to SADC Media Awards competition
Media urged to submit entries to SADC Media Awards competition
South African media practitioners have been called to submit their entries to the 2025 Southern African Development Community (SADC) Media Awards competition.
“To promote regional integration and cooperation (cross-border issues), the awards aim to recognise excellence in journalism in the area of print, photo, television, radio as well as to encourage media practitioners in member states to cover issues pertaining to the region,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Wednesday.
The SADC Media Awards competition is open to journalists/media from the SADC Member States.
They were established in 1996 to recognise best media work in disseminating information on SADC to support the process of regional cooperation and integration in the region.
The first prize winners will receive their prizes and certificates on the margins of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, which will take place in August 2025.
The first prize winner in each category receives US$2 500 and the runner-up receives US$1 000.
The awards were established following a decision by the SADC Council of Ministers to establish a sector that deals with matters relating to, amongst others, information, culture and sport.
They present a unique opportunity for the SADC region’s journalists to be celebrated and recognised by their peers.
These awards are one of the mechanisms to ensure a link, coordination and synchronisation between formal structures of SADC governments, civil society, academia, labour and the media.
Journalists who wish to enter the competition can access more information about the competition from https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADCEntryform2025.doc.
Rules of the 2025 competition are available on: https://www.gcis.gov.za/sites/default/files/docs/SADC2025RulesCompetition.pdf.
Entries need to be posted or delivered to MDDA or any GCIS offices nationwide marked:
MDDA Offices GCIS Offices
SADC Media Awards Entry or SADC Media Awards Entry
GSM Building Government Communications (GCIS)
SABC Auckland Park Campus 1035 Francis Baard Street
Johannesburg Hatfield, Pretoria
2006 0028
NB: All entries must be submitted no later than 28 February 2025. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:21
265 views
Kubayi pledges to hand over houses to GBVF victims
Kubayi pledges to hand over houses to GBVF victims
As part of the 16 Days of Activism for no Violence Against Women and Children campaign, Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, has pledged to hand over 16 houses to the victims of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) throughout the 16-day period.
Kubayi said the initiative underscores the department's commitment to providing tangible support to victims and survivors of GBVF.
“By providing safe housing, the goal is to reduce survivors' reliance on their abusive partners, promoting independence and dignity. It also aims to accelerate collective action and whole-of-society accountability to end violence against women and children.
“Empowering women economically is also crucial in the fight against GBVF, and a safe and secure home serves as a foundation for individuals to build their lives and become productive members of society,” Kubayi said.
According to the Minister, when women are economically resilient, they gain the freedom to leave harmful situations, take control of their lives, and create a better future for themselves and their children.
Kubayi said during the campaign, the department aims to raise awareness and highlight practical efforts to reduce the vulnerability of women affected by GBVF by providing safe shelter.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is today leading the national launch of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign, which is taking place in the Rustenburg Local Municipality in the North West.
This year's campaign is being held under the theme: “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence against Women and Children", which builds upon previous efforts to tackle the root causes of GBVF, fostering a culture of positive masculinity, gender equity, and economic empowerment for women and children.
The sub-theme for the campaign is: “Harnessing Technology and Innovation to Combat Gender-based Violence and Accelerate a Gender Inclusive Digital Economy”.
Kubayi, alongside Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements, Tasneem Motara and Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza will also hand over Breaking New Ground houses to vulnerable groups at the Helderwyk housing project in Ekurhuleni.
The handover of houses in Gauteng is a significant initiative by the department to support the 16 Days campaign.
The department has developed the Special Housing Needs Policy to assist victims of GBVF.
To further demonstrate the commitment to support vulnerable groups, the department has produced an awareness advertisement highlighting interventions to address GBVF.
“The advert will be launched on today, marking the beginning of the campaign and will be aired on SABC TV platforms, ensuring widespread reach and visibility,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/25/2024 - 09:58
18 views
Lottery Blocks Payment to Lavishly Funded Music Event
Dossier handed to Special Investigating Unit
Statement by the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies on the Withdrawal of the SABC Bill by Minister Malatsi
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, Ms Khusela Sangoni Diko, has noted with grave concern the decision of the Minister of Communication and Digital Technologies, Mr Solly Malatsi, to withdraw the South African Broadcasting (SABC) Bill from Parliament, as reported in the Sunday Times today, 10 November 2024. The Portfolio Committee has not yet been formally notified of the withdrawal of the proposed legislation in line with the Rules of the National Assembly.
Nonetheless, the report states that the minister has decided to withdraw the Bill, believing it is “totally flawed”, does not address the funding model of the public broadcaster and assigns too much power to the minister in appointing board members. While appreciative of the fact that as the executive authority, the minister may rescind the Bill for whatever reason before its second reading in the House, the Chairperson holds that this decision by the minister would be highly ill-advised, and it is no exaggeration to say it would sound the death knell for the South African Broadcasting Corporation.
The challenges facing the SABC require a considered and urgent response, not trigger-happy action, which serves no purpose but to frustrate and disrupt processes already underway. To withdraw the Bill at this stage means to delay the implementation of crucial reforms necessary to save yet another crucial and strategic public institution. Initiated by the government in 2018 and only introduced to Parliament in October 2023, the SABC Bill seeks to, among others, provide for the continued existence of the SABC, provide for its governance and consequently amend the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) Act and the Electronic Communications Act (ECA). To date, the Bill has undergone a thorough public participation process, with the sixth Parliament having received about twenty written submissions from the SABC itself, academia, youth representatives, organised labour, and other interested parties. The 7th Parliament, understanding the urgent challenges facing the public broadcaster, prioritised this critical legislation and held oral hearings into the submissions in September 2024. The committee diligently studied and interrogated these submissions, and all concerns raised by stakeholders were attended to. The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), which the minister leads, was expected to have responded to the issues raised during the public participation process by the 17th of October 2024.
This process underway and agreed to by the committee and in the Minister's presence would have provided the committee with a clear way forward to amend the Bill as provided for in the Rules of Parliament and subvert any unnecessary delays in the processing of this sorely needed legislation. The Chairperson remains convinced that the issues raised by civil society, including the Democratic Alliance, relating to a lack of clarity on the funding model of the public mandate of the SABC, time limits on the President on the appointment of the SABC Board, the creation of a subsidiary Commercial Company and Board and the potential “lack of independence” in the appointment of the subsidiary Commercial Company, were not insurmountable and could have been remedied through an amendment by the committee. Rule 286 of the National Assembly Rules explicitly confers authority on parliamentary committees to amend or, where necessary, redraft bills before them. Thus, the Chairperson strongly believes that an attempt to withdraw this Bill from Parliament will delay and derail the transformative and developmental interventions the government has been pursuing in state institutions.
Ms Diko said that the committee has been at pains to put in place a fast-tracked process to finalise the SABC Bill, the absence of which has created a serious legislative vacuum that has dire consequences. “To this end, the government and even the committee itself had initiated various engagements with stakeholders on the possible funding model for the public mandate of the SABC – the most substantive and urgent of the concerns raised against the Bill.” Another of the major concerns coming from the public participation process was the need for the speedy finalisation of the Audio and Audio-Visual White Paper, and Ms Diko would like to urge the Minister to prioritise the finalisation of the White Paper before canning a process underway as this has a bearing on the amendment of the Bill.
She further said that the public broadcaster could not be allowed to fail because its demise would spell unmitigated disaster also for SENTECH, the country's signal distributor, with a ripple effect to over 130 community radio stations, several private broadcasters including commercial radio and TV stations and ICT service providers. Ultimately, the most affected stakeholders would be communities across the country, which rely on public broadcasters to provide them with news and public information that impacts their lives and is delivered in all official languages, including sign language. It is undisputed that SABC is the only broadcaster with the capacity, reach and ability to deliver on this important mandate.
Ms Diko commends the SABC leadership and staff for the immense strides recorded over the last two years, saying that they are a testament to the dedication and patriotism of the hardworking men and women of the public broadcaster, who, despite enormous pressure and financial constraints, were resolute that the show would go on. In the 2023/24 financial year, the SABC has turned the corner on its financial management, achieving an unqualified audit opinion once again after nine years.
“Should the reports of the minister's decision to withdraw the Bill be true and due to the gravity of the situation at the public broadcaster, we urge the DCDT to accelerate the process of reworking the Bill and reintroduce a new version to Parliament within the current financial year. In the meantime, the committee will invite the minister to indicate how, in the interim, the financial situation at the public broadcaster shall be improved to ensure sustainability until this much-needed legislation is amended and the issues attendant to it are resolved. Failure to reintroduce the Bill timeously will leave individual members of the committee or the committee itself with no option but to entertain introducing a committee or Private Members' Bill in the best interest of the SABC for consideration by Parliament,” said Ms Diko.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
CSA Names Proteas Women Squads To Face England In T20I And ODI Series
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is delighted to announce the Proteas Women’s squads for the forthcoming T20 International (T20I) and...
Mashatile attends inauguration of the newly-elected President of Botswana
Mashatile attends inauguration of the newly-elected President of Botswana
Deputy President Pual Mashatile is today attending the inauguration of President Duma Gideon Boko at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana.
Boko was elected after the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) successfully won the 30 October polls, defeating the governing party Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) which has been in power for 58 years.
“The Deputy President is attending the inauguration as delegated by President Cyril Ramaphosa who, following the announcement of President Boko’s victory, congratulated him and reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to working closely with Botswana, as a valued neighbour, to realise the regional integration agenda in pursuit of Africa’s prosperity,” a Presidency statement read.
According to the Presidency, South Africa and Botswana enjoy strong political, economic, and social relations, which date back to pre-independence in Botswana, during the struggle against colonialism and apartheid in South Africa.
“South Africa wishes President Duma Boko and the Botswana government well in this democratic transition and looks forward to supporting the country’s efforts toward economic growth and prosperity,” said the Presidency, ahead of Friday’s inauguration.
According to the SABC, former President Thabo Mbeki and the Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema, are expected to be among the attendees. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 10:07
18 views
Government updates the nation on preparations for Dr Mboweni funeral
Government updates the nation on preparations for Dr Mboweni funeral
Preparations for the Special Official Funeral service and burial of former Minister and Governor of the Reserve Bank, Dr Tito Mboweni are at an advanced stage.
“Government wishes to update the nation of South Africa and the international community on the hosting of the Special Official Funeral service and burial of former Minister and Governor of the Reserve Bank, Dr Tito Mboweni. Preparations are at an advanced stage,” the Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) said.
In a statement on Friday afternoon the GCIS said the body of the late Dr Mboweni will lie in state at Sasekane Village today with members of the public allowed to view the body between 4pm and 6pm.
This is ahead of the funeral service and burial that will take place on Saturday, 19 October.
The funeral service is set to take place at Nkowankowa Stadium outside Tzaneen in Limpopo from 10am.
“All who wish to bid farewell to Dr. Mboweni are welcome to attend. At the conclusion of the funeral service, the cortege will proceed to Bordeaux (eBodweni) cemetery where he will be laid to rest,” said the GCIS.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral.
Mboweni died at the age of 65 on 13 August and will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2.
In announcing that the former Minister of Finance will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2, the Presidency said the funeral will feature ceremonial elements provided by the South African Police Service.
In further commemoration, President Ramaphosa also ordered that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at all official flag stations from Wednesday until the evening of the funeral.
READ | President Ramaphosa to deliver eulogy at Mboweni funeral
Government has also encouraged the public to continue to sign condolence books that will be available on the day of the funeral.
Condolences books will be available at designated areas within Nkowankowa Stadium.
In addition, members of the public do not need accreditation to attend Saturday’s funeral.
The funeral service will be broadcast live on various television stations including the SABC, ENCA, and Newzroom Afrika.
“Mourners who may not be able to attend physically are encouraged to follow the proceedings through these channels and many others,” said the GCIS. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 17:19
111 views
Four perish in Joburg building fire
Four perish in Joburg building fire
At least four people have died and three others have been injured in a building fire in the Johannesburg inner city.
The incident occurred in an abandoned building during the early hours of Sunday morning.
Speaking to the SABC at the site of the fire, City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi, said the abandoned building was found “well alight” when emergency services arrived in the early hours of Sunday morning.
“We started evacuating the residents who were inside the building. While we were conducting our fire fighting operations, there were three people who came out of the building injured… One was critically injured. We can also confirm that… we managed to recover four bodies. Unfortunately, paramedics confirmed them dead on the scene.
“We have activated our disaster management officials who are on site, we have got our colleagues from City Power, who are here to also try and disconnect some of the illegal connections in the building, and also officials from the city to facilitate some relief for the residents,” Mulaudzi said.
By 10am on Sunday morning, fire fighters were damping down the hotspots and conducting a proper sweep of the building.
“So starting from the ground floor up until the last floor… we’re sweeping through the building just to remove any uncertainty of any person who might still be missing. After we have done that, we are going to be handing over the building to the South African Police Service to continue with their own investigations,” Mulaudzi said.
The cause of the fire is not yet known. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 12:40
279 views
President mourns maths and science teacher William Smith
President mourns maths and science teacher William Smith
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sadness at the passing away of maths and science education innovator and Esteemed Member of the National Order of the Baobab, William Smith.
In a statement on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa offered his condolences to the family and friends of the popular educator who passed away at the age of 85.
President Ramaphosa conferred the Order of the Baobab on Smith in 2019.
Born in Makhanda (in the Eastern Cape) to parents who were notable scientists, Smith made mathematics and science accessible to all pupils free, through television, in a groundbreaking 1990s TV programme called the 'Learning Channel' on SABC 2.
During his 25 years as a teacher, he is estimated to have taught close on a million learners.
President Ramaphosa described William Smith as an education and cultural icon for the nation.
“The outpouring of affection the nation directed at him when he received his National Order demonstrated, years after his retirement, [demonstrated] the place he held in people’s hearts.
“He was synonymous with The Heads of Knysna which was the backdrop to his television presentation decades before we could think of him as the first teacher to teach “remotely,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa stated that Smith made maths and science accessible to a broad audience, reaching not only learners but also their parents and anyone interested in revisiting or further exploring these subjects long after their school years.
“William Smith’s passion for his curriculum and for the success of those he taught in classrooms, at matric camps and on TV benefited millions of young South Africans even before our transition to democracy and the dawn of a new dispensation of equal education.
“May his soul rest in peace,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
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Thu, 08/22/2024 - 08:07
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