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Marking its second anniversary on Sunday 7 April 2024, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K will boast an exhilarating “Schools Challenge” that is guaranteed to spark exciting competition amongst the region’s top athletics schools. “The Schools Challenge will add an exciting team element to what is usually an individual sport,” says Michael Meyer, Managing …
City to deal with the 32-million litres of raw sewage it pumps out to sea every day
The first event in the Rip Curl GromSearch series 2024 will take place over February 16 – 18. At this stage, all entries are full, and the entries are now closed. To be placed on the waiting list for this competition, competitors are asked to please email surfingsouthafrica@gmail.com Please include the division you would like to …
The inaugural Port Alfred Easter Festival is approaching quickly, and we wanted everyone to know what is happening in Port Alfred over the Easter weekend. 29 March – 1 April. What: The Port Alfred Easter Festival is Justin Bekker’s brainchild. He is the chairperson of the Sunshine Coast Tourism Board’s Tourism Events Subcommittee. It is …
Prices of petrol and diesel to go up from Wednesday
Mineral Resources and Energy Minister, Gwede Mantashe, has announced the adjustment of fuel prices for February 2024, which shows a hike in both petrol and diesel prices.
The price adjustments will come into effect from Wednesday, 7 February 2023.
Consumers will now pay 75c more for a litre of unleaded petrol of both grades (93 and 95), while the wholesale price of diesel will go up by between 70c and 73c.
The wholesale price of illuminating paraffin will be increased by 53c a litre and the maximum retail price for LP gas is going up by 37c per kg.
Reasons given for the country’s adjusted prices include international and local factors.
“International factors include the fact that South Africa imports both crude oil and finished products at a price set at the international level, including importation costs, for example, shipping costs,” the department explained.
The main reasons for the fuel price adjustments, according to the department, are due to the cost of the average Brent Crude oil, which increased from US $ 77.35 to US $ 82.03 in the past month.
The department also stated that the higher oil prices are attributed to the impact of the geopolitical risk or attacks on oil cargoes in the Middle East, particularly the Red Sea.
“This has caused an increase in shipping rates as ships are rerouted from the Middle East to Europe, using the longer and more expensive route around Africa since they cannot import from Russia.”
In addition, the cold weather has also affected production in the United States, which has recently been part of the output used to offset the production cuts by a larger group of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC+).
“This resulted in more than expected inventory draws.”
Meanwhile, the average international product prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin increased in line with the higher crude oil prices, while the rand/US dollar exchange rate played a role.
“The cumulative slate balance on petrol and diesel at the end of December 2023 had a positive balance of R1.1 million.
“Therefore, there will be no slate levy implemented in the price structures of petrol and diesel with effect from the 7th of February 2024.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 02/06/2024 - 14:42
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms Barbara Creecy, has welcomed the declaration of De Berg Nature Reserve as South Africa's 30th Ramsar site under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance.
“The conservation and restoration of wetlands is crucial to achieving many of our national and global sustainable development goals. Estuaries, marshes and vleis, rivers and lakes, and the biodiversity that they preserve, matter for our health, food supply, tourism, and jobs. Wetlands are vital for humans, ecosystems and our climate, providing essential ecosystem services such as water regulation, including flood control and water purification,” said Minister Creecy.
“Through the Working for Wetlands Programme, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has invested over R1.4 billion in the rehabilitation of 1,873 wetlands and created 43,662 jobs. The Working for Wetlands Programme, which commenced in the year 2000, is being implemented in all 9 provinces of South Africa by a dedicated team of experts working closely with communities,” added Minister Creecy.
De Berg Nature Reserve is located along the headwaters of the Dwars River in the highest part of Mpumalanga approximately, 20 kilometres north of the town of Dullstroom, and lies adjacent to the Verloren Valei Ramsar Site. At an elevation of just over 2300 meters above sea level, the Ramsar site contains the highest altitude wetlands in Mpumalanga, consisting of numerous valley bottom, seep wetlands and mountain streams and represents some of the most pristine and habitat diverse watercourses in the South African grassland biome.
The Ramsar site, which is a biodiversity hotspot, not only supports numerous pristine headwater wetlands but also supports numerous threatened, critically endangered, and vulnerable species of plants and animals. The site falls within the Lydenburg and Sekhukhune centres of plant endemism and has a total of 878 indigenous plant species, which includes 30 plant species that are threatened and near threatened and includes a new species of Bulbine, (B decastroi) which can be found in the valleys of the Reserve.
This site also has 18 species of frogs, 71 reptile species, 432 bird species and a 120 mammal species, including Vandam's girdled lizard (Smaug vandami), various crane species such as blue crane and grey-crowned crane and mountain reedbuck. Many of these species are also rare and vulnerable species and include flocks of up to 30 of the vulnerable Southern Bald Ibis which roosts on the cliffs above Ibis Falls, one of 10 iconic waterfalls which can be found at the site.
Although wetlands cover less than 3% of South Africa's land area, they offer diverse benefits that enrich human well-being. Wetlands are increasingly regarded in South Africa as socio-ecological systems as opposed to only ecological systems. Many of our wetlands are in urban areas and are often the last remaining open areas for recreational use by the public.
“The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) – an entity of DFFE - is also actively contributing to wetland conservation through its comprehensive approach to mapping and understanding this critical ecological infrastructure, emphasizing that informed action today can make a significant difference for the future of wetlands, human well-being and biodiversity. Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs) are crucial to South Africa's water security, and various SANBI projects provide insight into land use and protection levels in these strategically important national assets,” said Minister Creecy.
“Through the development of partnerships to monitor, protect and rehabilitate wetlands, by ensuring our wetlands are kept free of litter and invasive alien plant species and by ensuring that we follow best practices to ensure that wetlands are sustainably used for their services we show our appreciation for and acknowledge the value of wetlands and ensure that they remain in place to provide future generations with the same services,” added Minister Creecy.
The designation of De Berg Nature Reserve as South Africa's 30th Ramsar Site under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance coincides with World Wetlands Day (2 February) which is commemorated under the theme “wetlands and human wellbeing”.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.
De Berg Nature Reserve declared 30th Ramsar site
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, has welcomed the declaration of De Berg Nature Reserve as South Africa’s 30th Ramsar site under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance.
The Ramsar Convention encourages the designation of sites containing representative, rare or unique wetlands, or wetlands that are important for conserving biological diversity.
“The conservation and restoration of wetlands is crucial to achieving many of our national and global sustainable development goals. Estuaries, marshes and vleis, rivers and lakes, and the biodiversity that they preserve matter for our health, food supply, tourism and jobs.
“Wetlands are vital for humans, ecosystems and our climate, providing essential ecosystem services such as water regulation, including flood control and water purification,” Creecy said on Friday.
Through the Working for Wetlands Programme, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has invested over R1.4 billion in the rehabilitation of 1 873 wetlands and created 43 662 jobs.
The programme commenced in the year 2000 and is being implemented in all nine provinces of South Africa by a dedicated team of experts working closely with communities.
De Berg Nature Reserve is located along the headwaters of the Dwars River in the highest part of Mpumalanga approximately, 20 kilometres north of the town of Dullstroom, and lies adjacent to the Verloren Valei Ramsar Site.
At an elevation of just over 2 300 metres above sea level, the Ramsar site contains the highest altitude wetlands in Mpumalanga, consisting of numerous valley bottom, seep wetlands and mountain streams, and represents some of the most pristine and habitat diverse watercourses in the South African grassland biome.
“The Ramsar site, which is a biodiversity hotspot, not only supports numerous pristine headwater wetlands but also supports numerous threatened, critically endangered, and vulnerable species of plants and animals.
“The site falls within the Lydenburg and Sekhukhune centres of plant endemism, and has a total of 878 indigenous plant species, which includes 30 plant species that are threatened and near threatened, and includes a new species of Bulbine, (B decastroi) which can be found in the valleys of the reserve.
“This site also has 18 species of frogs, 71 reptile species, 432 bird species and a 120 mammal species, including Vandam's girdled lizard (Smaug vandami), various crane species such as blue crane and grey-crowned crane and mountain reedbuck,” the department said.
Many of these species are also rare and vulnerable species. They include flocks of up to 30 of the vulnerable Southern Bald Ibis, which roosts on the cliffs above Ibis Falls, one of 10 iconic waterfalls that can be found at the site.
Although wetlands cover less than 3% of South Africa’s land area, they offer diverse benefits that enrich human well-being.
The department said Wetlands are increasingly regarded in South Africa as socio-ecological systems as opposed to only ecological systems.
Many of the country’s wetlands are in urban areas and are often the last remaining open areas for recreational use by the public.
“The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) – an entity of DFFE - is also actively contributing to wetland conservation through its comprehensive approach to mapping and understanding this critical ecological infrastructure, emphasizing that informed action today can make a significant difference for the future of wetlands, human well-being and biodiversity.
“Strategic Water Source Areas (SWSAs) are crucial to South Africa’s water security, and various SANBI projects provide insight into land use and protection levels in these strategically important national assets,” Creecy said.
The designation of De Berg Nature Reserve as South Africa’s 30th Ramsar Site under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance coincides with World Wetlands Day (2 February) which is commemorated under the theme “wetlands and human wellbeing”.
Once designated, these sites are added to the Convention's List of Wetlands of International Importance and become known as Ramsar sites. In designating a wetland as a Ramsar site, countries agree to establish and oversee a management framework aimed at conserving the wetland and ensuring its wise use.
“Through the development of partnerships to monitor, protect and rehabilitate wetlands, by ensuring our wetlands are kept free of litter and invasive alien plant species and by ensuring that we follow best practices to ensure that wetlands are sustainably used for their services we show our appreciation for and acknowledge the value of wetlands and ensure that they remain in place to provide future generations with the same services,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 02/02/2024 - 09:50
On the ocean’s edge and a stone’s throw away from central Cape Town, the Sea Point Promenade and the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront is one of the most famous hotels in the Mother City. Waves burst against the embankment of this hotel, offering guests the most magnificent views of the Atlantic …
Imparting the joy of sunny South Africa into your outdoor spaces in a long-lasting way means saying farewell to the monotony of white and beige walls, and welcoming the charm and allure of colourful facades that can withstand the elements. ‘But,’ notes the Retail & Digital Marketing Manager at Kansai Plascon, Jeetan Makan, ‘we often …
Are you in the market for a new home? Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to upgrade, or seeking an investment opportunity, finding the right property can be a daunting task. But worry not! We have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the vibrant property market in some of South Africa’s most sought-after …
Described by even the most hardened competitors as one of the most challenging races on record, South Africa’s Brad Cox (25) was undeterred, putting on an impressive performance on the back of a stellar 2023 season to place 3rd in the Rally2 category and finishing 13th overall in the Bike Category at this year’s Dakar …
The iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series will launch its 2024 season in the friendly streets of Gqeberha on Sunday, 7 April 2024, as a vibrant sea of red takes over during the much-anticipated Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K. “Whether running or walking, participants can look forward to a fast-paced route, lively entertainment, great …
Cathay Pacific’s first ferry lounge at Shenzhen’s Shekou Cruise Home Port opens. Strengthening its position in the wider Greater Bay Area and enhancing customers’ intermodal travel experience Cathay Pacific is delighted to announce that its first-ever lounge outside of an airport is now open to guests at the Shekou Cruise Home Port in Shenzhen. This …
The start of a new year is always a good time to work towards those goals that might have fallen by the wayside. And there’s nobody quite as inspiring as Sue Martin (62) to encourage others! Paragliding, parachuting, parasailing, bungee jumping, abseiling, and flying in an autogyro are just some of the activities Sue has …
In the ever-evolving landscape of global commerce, logistics and transportation play a crucial role. From specialised medical deliveries to international shipping, the logistics industry offers a myriad of services to cater to diverse needs. This guide highlights various essential logistics services that facilitate seamless operations in different sectors. 1. Multi-Temperature Warehouse and Distribution Effective logistics …
This was part of a Global Day of Action for Palestine
SA speaks at ICJ case
Israel’s response to the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023 has crossed the line and breaches the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide also referred to as “the Convention”.
This is according to Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, who delivered his opening remarks at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, Netherlands, on Thursday.
“Madam President, ‘in extending our hands across the miles to the people of Palestine, we do so in the full knowledge that we are part of a humanity that is at one’. These were the words of President Nelson Mandela. This is the spirit in which South Africa acceded to the Convention,” Lamola told the packed court on Thursday.
South Africa is currently on the floor in the ICJ in a legal battle against Israel, which is accused of genocide in Gaza.
South Africa approached the ICJ, under the Convention, for acts committed by Israel in its continued attack on Gaza that has claimed thousands of lives and injured many.
The Convention defines genocide as acts such as killings “committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group”.
The Minister believes that the violence and destruction in Palestine and Israel did not begin on 7 October 2023.
“The Palestinians have experienced systemic oppression and violence for the last 76 years, on 6 October 2023 and every day since October 7.”
Meanwhile, he said that since 2005, Israel has continued to exercise control over the airspace, territorial waters, land crossings, water, electricity, civilian infrastructure and other key governmental functions.
“Given that continuing effective control by Israel over the territory, Gaza is still considered by the international community to be under belligerent occupation by Israel.”
In the same breath, he took the stand to condemn the targeting of civilians by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups and the taking of hostages in October last year.
“That said, no armed attack on a State’s territory no matter how serious — even an attack involving atrocity crimes — can provide any justification for, or defence to, breaches of the Convention, whether as a matter of law or morality.
“Israel’s response to the 7 October 2023 attack has crossed this line and gives rise to breaches of the Convention.”
It is for this reason that he believes South Africa has a responsibility to prevent genocide as contained in Article 1 of the Convention.
He also welcomed Israel’s involvement with the case, to have the matter resolved by the court.
Legal counsel
South Africa’s case is presented by a team of six legal counsels, including Dr Adila Hassim, Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, Professor John Dugard, Blinne ni Ghrálaigh, Max du Plessis, and Professor Vaughan Lowe.
Hassim accused Israel is committing “acts of genocide” during its war against the Hamas terror group in Gaza.
The advocate also showed the map of Gaza, describing it as one of the most densely populated places in the world and home to about 2.3 million Palestinians, almost half of them children.
She said Palestinians in Gaza are being killed by Israeli weaponry and bombs from the air, land and sea.
“Israel deployed 6 000 bombs per week. At least 200 times, it has deployed 2 000-pound (907kg) bombs in southern Gaza, which it designated safe.”
According to Hassim, more than 1 800 Palestinian families in Gaza have lost multiple family members.
“Hundreds of multi-generational families have been wiped out with no remaining survivors – mothers, fathers, children, siblings, grandparents, aunts, cousins, often all killed together. This killing is nothing short of the destruction of Palestinian life.
“It is inflicted deliberately, no one is spared, not even newborn babies. UN [United Nations] chiefs have described it as a graveyard for children.”
Ngcukaitobi, who was the second lawyer to take the floor, said South Africa is not alone in drawing attention to Israel’s genocidal rhetoric against Palestinians in Gaza.
However, he said 15 UN special rapporteurs and 21 members of the UN working groups have warned that what is happening in Gaza reflects a genocide in the making.
Both South Africa and Israel are expected to lay bare their arguments during the two-day public hearing at the ICJ.
The arguments continue. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 01/11/2024 - 13:11
South Africa’s legal team is presenting at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, on Thursday about the devastating effects of the ongoing war in Gaza
In a world where information travels at the speed of a click, getting the word out about anything can be a bit of a challenge. But fear not, dear reader, for in the land of South Africa, the humble press release still reigns supreme. Let’s take a light-hearted and non-serious look at the reasons why …
City cautions against challenging sea conditions
With the full moon, stronger rip currents and possible swells, the City of Cape Town has cautioned beachgoers to exercise extreme caution.
The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department on Wednesday urged beachgoers to be particularly alert over the coming days.
With the arrival of the full moon, stronger rip currents and bigger sea swells are likely to be prevalent.
Lifeguards and ancillary services have had a busy few days in spite of the very windy conditions around the peninsula.
The only major incident involving bathers that was recorded over the past few days was a mass rescue at Monwabisi Beach, with three non-fatal drownings.
The patients were transported to Khayelitsha hospital for medical treatment.
According to City records, there have been four fatal drownings of bathers since 1 December 2023.
“It is of concern that all of the fatal drownings took place outside of designated bathing areas, or outside of lifeguard duty hours. We request the public to continue to swim only where and when lifeguards are on duty, between their red and yellow flags. Please also take heed of the warnings about rip currents and stronger swells in the days ahead.
“We are determined to provide safe spaces for our beachgoers, but we need the public to play their part too,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Patricia Van der Ross.
In terms of the Identikidz project, there were no challenges experienced over the past long weekend. Staff have tagged 48 957 children since the start of the project in mid-December, 65 of whom were reunited with their caregivers.
Over the Christmas long weekend, 5 095 children were tagged at Strand Beach, 3 715 at Muizenberg and 3 237 at Strandfontein.
The Identikidz project was established in 2016 by the City of Cape Town and is aimed at promoting child safety at beaches across Cape Town during the festive season. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Thu, 12/28/2023 - 10:52
Holidaymakers looking to relax by the seaside this summer will soon be heading to the beautiful Sapphire Coast! This is a prime opportunity for local businesses to expand their brand and capture a new market – and the Sapphire Sizzling Summer Beach Campaign, running from 20 to 31 December, provides the perfect platform. Promotional and …
Environmental report acknowledges that seismic blasts, which are much louder than gunshots, can kill fish particularly those with swim bladders
The holiday season is around the corner, and with the warmer weather enticing everyone outdoors, the KZN South Coast is: Destination…summer! There are endless outdoor adventures for the whole family to enjoy from the sea to the sky! “Adventure tourism and nature-based experiences are top of the list for many visitors, and we’re so fortunate …
Summer is on the doorstep and the holidays are beckoning! Now is the time to start planning that year-end, family holiday and where better to relax and cool off than the KZN South Coast? “Our tourism establishments are geared up and ready to welcome our many holiday visitors to the KZN South Coast this festive …