South Africa

10 January 2025

Condolences for family of Kwaito legend, Doc Shebeleza

Location: News

Condolences for family of Kwaito legend, Doc Shebeleza

Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, has expressed “deep sadness” at the passing of Kwaito legend and pioneer Victor ‘Doc Shebeleza’ Bogopane.

The beloved musician passed away at the age of 51 on Thursday.

“Gauteng is deeply saddened by the passing of Doc Shebeleza, especially as his death follows closely after that of fellow artist, Winnie Khumalo. Shebeleza’s influence on the Kwaito genre was profound and will continue to inspire both emerging and seasoned artists.

“We will also remember him for his charitable work in supporting and assisting artists through his organization, AMAHA. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Bogopane family, friends, and all those who enjoyed his music. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Chiloane said.

Bogopane rose to fame in the 1990s following the release of his debut album “S’kumfete” which included hit songs including Ebumnandini.

He was also part of the Kwaito group, Amaskumfete. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 09:31

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9 January 2025

Police Chairperson Condemns the Handling of Khayelitsha Resident by VIP South African Police Service (SAPS) Officers

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Ian Cameron, has strongly condemned the mishandling and maltreatment of a Khayelitsha man in his own home by the South African Police Service VIP protection unit members. While the Chairperson acknowledges that ensuring the security of the protectee is paramount, it should be done within reason and the confines of the law. The incident is worrying in the context that eight officers of the same unit have been on suspension for over a year for assaulting members of the public on the N1 in Gauteng.

"It is untoward that the VIP protection unit members acted irrationally and outside the limit of their power. Also, the incident puts into question the security protocols around a VIP and whether those protocols are followed," Mr Cameron said.

While the incident highlights the need for effective and enhanced training for VIP SAPS officers, especially as it relates to the abuse of power, it also highlights the irrationality of the SAPS's continued focus on budget allocation for VIP protection.

"It is undeniable that the SAPS spends an inordinate amount of money protecting a few politicians despite the rampant crime in areas like Khayelitsha, Nyanga and Langa. Ordinary citizens are then prevented access to their elected representatives by these security officials. This then puts into question who the public representatives are really representing," Mr Cameron said.

The committee has highlighted the need for accountability within the SAPS in its previous engagement, especially considering the number of incidents involving SAPS members and their abuse of power.

Also, increased funding for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate is needed to ensure accountability at all times. The committee will schedule a meeting to find out progress on the disciplinary proceedings against the eight SAPS VIP officers who assaulted a civilian on the N1. The committee will use that meeting to get an update on any cases against the SAPS VIP unit to ensure accountability.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

9 January 2025

Gauteng Portfolio Committee on Finance notes GPG shortfall reports

Location: News

Gauteng Portfolio Committee on Finance notes GPG shortfall reports

The Gauteng Legislature Portfolio Committee on Finance says it will continue to closely monitor spending in provincial departments following reports that the provincial government is facing a R6 billion shortfall by June this year.

Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC, Lebogang Maile, has subsequently rebuffed those reports.

“[The] committee notes the rebuttal of the article in the form of a media statement issued by Gauteng MEC for Finance, Mr. Lebogang Maile, dated 07 January 2025.

“The committee will continue to closely monitor expenditure patterns of departments and entities, and conduct oversight to ensure that the Gauteng Provincial Departments exercise fiscal discipline,” a statement read.

Furthermore, the committee explained that it bears a mandate to carry out oversight to “ensure that there is prudence and accountability in relation to utilisation of government resources”.

“The committee does this in conjunction with the Gauteng Provincial Treasury, which it oversees. In turn, the Gauteng Provincial Treasury, despite being overseen by the Portfolio Committee, is a strategic partner in oversight, as the former monitors expenditure in Gauteng Provincial Government departments.

“Over time, Gauteng Provincial Treasury has provided the Portfolio Committee with expenditure trends of the Gauteng Provincial Government and where necessary, provided expert advice on how expenditure anomalies should be addressed to ascertain that provincial departments do not exceed their allocated budgets,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 01/09/2025 - 10:05

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9 January 2025

Deputy President to deliver eulogy at former Minister Bengu’s funeral

Location: News

Deputy President to deliver eulogy at former Minister Bengu's funeral

Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, is expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral of democratic South Africa’s first Minister of Education, Professor Sibusiso Bengu.

Bengu passed away on 30 December at the age of 90 and has been afforded a Special Official Funeral Category 2.
“As the first Minister of Education in a democratic South Africa, Prof Bengu played a pivotal role in the transformation of a deeply flawed and unequal education system of the apartheid era.

“To this day, ordinary South Africans still benefit from the immense contribution of Prof Bengu, through the Education Act, which mainly addresses issues around the transformation of the sector and the provision of developmental and empowerment opportunities for all South Africans,” the Presidency said in a statement.

READ | Special Official Funeral to honour SA's first democratic Education Minister Sibusiso Bengu

The funeral service will be held on Friday at the University of Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 01/09/2025 - 13:03

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9 January 2025

Mayor mourns five-year-old killed in Manenberg gang shooting

Location: News

Mayor mourns five-year-old killed in Manenberg gang shooting

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says the city mourns five-year-old Ameer Abrahams, who was shot and killed during a gang-related shooting in Manenberg, while on the way to a local tuckshop with his father on Monday.

“The city is today in mourning, together with the Abrahams family, following the passing of five-year-old Ameer. We feel the extreme pain as parents ourselves, and we stand with the family in demanding justice for this young life lost in such horrific circumstances,” Hill-Lewis said in a statement on Thursday.

Two other women reportedly sustained injuries in the same shooting.

Hill-Lewis has commended the swift action of the police, which led to the arrest of three suspects.

The Mayor said the city continues to offer its full support in the pursuit of justice for these shootings.

Member of Mayoral Committee for Safety and Security, JP Smith said the city would continue to assist the South African Police Service (SAPS) and its Safety and Security Investigation Unit (SSIU) has passed on information received from Manenberg residents.

“The city stands ready to assist SAPS whenever requested for investigations into gang, gun, and drug crime through our investments in safety technologies, such as gunshot detection in the Manenberg area and others, CCTV, Automatic Number Plate Recognition, and eye-in-the-sky aerial surveillance,” Smith said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 01/09/2025 - 12:30

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9 January 2025

Call for social cohesion to end gender-based violence

Location: News

Call for social cohesion to end gender-based violence

The Minister in The Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has reiterated her call for social cohesion to end gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

Chikunga’s call comes after another brutal murder of a woman by her boyfriend.

Aged 25, Shana Balie’s lifeless body was found in her boyfriend’s home in Wallacedene in Kraaifontein, Cape Town, on 26 December 2024.

Her family last saw her on Christmas Day.

It is alleged that Balie was beaten to death by her boyfriend, Jonathan Gewindt. Her lifeless body was found by the police buried in the backyard, where her boyfriend was renting.

Gewindt has since confessed to the killing and is expected to appear in Blue Downs Magistrate Court on Thursday.

Chikunga has strongly condemned Balie’s brutal murder.

Chikunga said the persistence of GBVF reflects deeply ingrained societal norms and structures that perpetuate male dominance, and reinforce misogyny, gender hierarchies and power imbalances within families and communities.

“This leads to female subordination and systemic inequalities that lead to violence against women and girls.”

The Minister maintained that addressing cultural and legal dimensions, is essential for fostering a just and equitable society in which gender norms do not perpetuate violence and inequality.

"We must act decisively to address not only the immediate instances of GBVF but also the structural, cultural, and systemic factors that perpetuate violence against women and girls. Our efforts must be centred on empowering women and fostering a society free from all forms of gender-based violence,” she said.

Despite the government's policy commitment to end GBVF, Chikunga said South Africa continues to experience the scourge and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) which stems from GBVF.

“The persistently high rates of GBVF victimisation and perpetration, despite existing legislative frameworks and policies, suggest the need for a comprehensive approach that does not only address the immediate instances of violence, but also includes a focus on women and girls to tackle the underlying structural and systemic factors that trap them in these circumstances,” Chikunga said.

The Minister is expected to visit the Balie family home on Thursday, to reaffirm her commitment to ensuring justice is served for the victim, and to provide further reassurance to the grieving family. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 01/09/2025 - 11:47

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9 January 2025

A Booming Continent Needs a New Payment Infrastructure

Location: Business

Africa is an exciting, vibrant and creative place to do business. But make no mistake, it has its challenges. Currency devaluation, political instability, and service disruptions are endemic. Africa is not for sissies, as the saying goes.

In navigating those challenges, relationships matter. It's not so much about throwing money at a problem, it's about investing time, building trust, meeting with partners and regulators, and understanding each other's needs.

Africa offers an enormous upside for those prepared to make this time investment. The continent's population is set to reach 2.5 billion (http://apo-opa.co/3W7Kp4w) by 2050, and Africa's people are embracing digital technology, as the World Bank (http://apo-opa.co/3Waln4F) confirms. They are leveraging digital connectivity to improve their lives, educate themselves, send remittances, and start small enterprises. There is value in investing in that level of human development.

The payments opportunity

Running through this African growth trajectory is a particular business thread: payments (http://apo-opa.co/3WawLxk). There are opportunities for anyone who can simplify, rationalise and standardise payments for the continent's dynamic financial economy.

An organisation in just such a position is MultiChoice (www.Multichoice.com/), the leading pan-African video entertainment provider for almost 40 years. In building a pay-TV network across the continent, with up to 23.5 million (http://apo-opa.co/3WawOJw) customers across 50+ markets, and 100 million+ monthly viewers, MultiChoice also built relationships across the continent to collect payments, for DStv, GOtv, and Showmax – potentially the only large enterprise to need such enormous breadth.

The Group has converted the opportunity that this represents, partnering with global venture-capital firm General Catalyst and payments company Rapyd to launch Moment (http://apo-opa.co/4ad1H5N), which aims to be the broadest, deepest payment network across Africa.

Launching with Showmax and DStv as initial clients, Moment started processing payments for parts of the group in January 2024. By November 2024 MultiChoice was already collecting around 35% of its revenue through Moment rails, and those numbers are rising quickly. Services to other enterprises were rolled out in August.

Moment already collects and disburses across 44 African countries, accepting 200+ local payment methods – spanning in-person payments at over 1 million store and agent locations, mobile money, credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets.

Enabling consumers and businesses to move from cash to digital, Moment and its network offers users access to better financial opportunities, lower prices, higher quality goods and services, and full access to the digitally enabled economy.

Expanding the ecosystem

To access the initial target market of large enterprises that will benefit from the reach, breadth, and high performance needed by MultiChoice, Moment has built out a fully cloud-native infrastructure. The platform can deliver on the high daily and weekly loads needed for one of the largest billing bases on the continent, and also smoothly deal with the potential for network outages, power cuts, and other disruptions.

In order to ensure businesses have access to the daily cash flow they need, Moment has built a robust financial reconciliation and settlement system capable of automating and simplifying the daily reconciliation process for enterprises and enabling them to spend tight staffing budgets efficiently, while getting fast, accurate financial reporting and access to their receivables.

To help these enterprise customers expand their customer bases, Moment opens up the largest mass-market suite of payment channels through its network, enabling businesses to fully tap into the mass market's buying power for the first time with a single API connection – providing access to more than a million in-person payment locations across spaza shops, modern retail locations, and a host of online payment options tuned to the needs of each local market.

To ensure that Moment's clients and the market are ready for the future, Moment is building a “coalition” around real-time payments, to educate consumers on the benefits of PayShap and other real-time payment methods that can significantly reduce cost and increase payment speed. DStv and Moment launched PayShap payments in South Africa as the first “consumer to business” real-time payment option built on South Africa's RPP payments system. Moment has developed partnerships with similar systems in the SADC countries and Nigeria to expand real-time payments as the market evolves.

Simplifying the process

One of the reasons MultiChoice first looked at the payments space was precisely because it is a complex environment, characterised by multiple service agreements, commission rates and exchange rates. It made sense to try to simplify the payments landscape, for everyone's benefit.

Africa is a challenging territory, but Africans are agile and innovative. Trends and new solutions emerge constantly. Any platform entering this space must recognise that there isn't one answer; there are many. By partnering with MultiChoice, Moment has built out technology with the flexibility to configure the right solution for each market.

The upsides of building for the challenging scale of MultiChoice as a launch client are significant – other enterprises Moment is working with have built unwieldy daily financial operations to manage their own complexity. Anecdotally, one merchant maintains a staff of 75 people doing reconciliations for their business – operations that can be automated and streamlined leveraging the Moment platform. Moment presents a vast opportunity in simplifying that process, automating it, while enabling customers to focus on their core business and customer relationships.

Africa is the largest single opportunity in the world. As our population booms over the next 20 years, many new business foundations will need to be laid across the continent – especially in the area of payments.

Payments are the lifeblood of Africa's economy. Enabling them efficiently and cost-effectively, across the continent, ensures Africa performs to its full potential. Through the partnership with MultiChoice, Moment is well positioned to be at the core of this transformation for decades to come.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

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9 January 2025

Public called to enter Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition

Location: News

Public called to enter Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has called on members of the public to take part in the Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition, which is aimed at communicating matters of water action in creative ways.

The South African National Committee (SANC) for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP), in collaboration with the DWS, launched the Citizen Science for Water Photo Story Competition on 27 September 2024.

SANC members include the DWS, the Water Research Commission (WRC), Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), University of South Africa (UNISA), and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), among others.

The department said the competition seeks to raise awareness on the intertwined relationship between water and the various dimensions of culture, value, education and the natural sciences, as well as demonstrate how citizens, communities and education could effectively support the sustainable use and management of water, among others.

“It is also aimed at activating youth involvement in communicating matters of water action in creative ways; contribute to joint actions in the water action agenda, and to demonstrate how citizens, communities and education could effectively support the sustainable use and management of water,” the department said in a statement.

The department highlighted that the competition targets citizens from all walks of life with a keen interest on water matters, including citizen science organisations, related civil society groups, as well as visual artists and photographers.

Participants are encouraged to explore and submit photo stories aligned with five themes, including Water and Citizen Science; Water and Partnerships; Water and Education; Water and Culture, as well as Water and Communities.

“The competition is open to South African individuals aged 18 and above. Participants should submit minimum of three photographs that tell a cohesive story on one of the five themes, along with title, overall story of 200-500 words, names of the author(s), photograph location in South Africa,” the department explained.

Entries for the competition is open and can be accessed on the UNESCO website https://www.dws.gov.za/Projects/UNESCO/cspi.aspx.

The deadline for submission is 26 March 2025. The winners will be announced in April 2025 and receive an award from DWS and SANC-IHP.

“[The] winning entries will gain visibility through local and international UNESCO IHP platforms, where the top 15 pieces will be featured in an exhibition during the launch of the Photo Story Book in June 2025,” the department said.

The department urged participants to familiarise themselves with the submission rules when entering the competition. Anyone with inquiries or struggling with their submission may direct their queries to ihp50photostory@dws.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 01/09/2025 - 10:40

120 views

9 January 2025

Call for caution on the roads

Location: News

Call for caution on the roads

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has called for caution on the roads amid persistent rain.

“The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport is appealing to residents and motorists to be cautious during the persistent and disruptive rains expected over the next few days. The department would also wish to warn road users of possible flash floods, to avoid crossing flooded bridges and low-lying bridges,” it said in a statement on Wednesday.

This comes after a warning by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) that disruptive rainfall, leading to localised flooding, damage to road infrastructure in low-lying areas and bridges, is expected in the province over the next few days.

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has called on motorists, bikers and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution when driving or walking in rainy conditions.

“We urge you to be extra vigilant and careful during these conditions to prevent injuries and loss of lives,” said Diale-Tlabela.

READ | Call to exercise extreme caution on the roads

The MEC cautioned that motorists must remain alert, at all times, particularly when driving under rainy conditions.

“She also called for collaboration with stakeholders, all road users to embrace safe practices by adhering to speed limits, staying alert, and ensuring roadworthiness of their vehicles. This, she added, will go a long way in creating safer roads for everyone,” said the department.

As a precautionary measure, the department’s emergency road maintenance teams1 are on stand-by and keeping a close eye on developments to assist with disaster management services in the event of damage or excessive flooding on provincial or municipal roads. - SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Thu, 01/09/2025 - 10:59

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9 January 2025

Basic Education Committee Chairperson Concerned About Court Matters Regarding Publishing of Matric Results

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education Chairperson, Ms Joy Maimela, today expressed her deep concern about the court action regarding the publication of the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results. She said uncertainty may lead to increased levels of anxiety amongst learners as they await the outcome of the final examinations.

Ms Maimela appealed to all the parties – the Information Regulator (IR) and the Department of Basic Education (DBE) – to put the learners' interests and well-being first. “These learners are probably almost as stressed now whilst awaiting the announcement of the results on Monday as they were when writing the NSC examinations. We appeal to all to not add to heightened stress levels. The back and forth can lead to added anxiety for these candidates.”

The Chairperson's comments follow an application for an urgent interdict by the Information Regulator against the department to prevent the publishing of matric results in newspapers as has been traditionally the case. The Regulator's application followed an enforcement notice it served on the department in November, in which the Regulator found that publishing the results in this manner was in breach of the conditions for the lawful processing of personal information under the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act. The Regulator ordered the department to provide an undertaking that it would not publish the 2024 results in newspapers within 31 days and turned to the courts after it failed to do so. The court found the matter was not urgent and struck it from the roll with costs.

“We are on the eve of the announcement of results. Let us rather focus on all our learners' emotional and psychological well-being and support them as best as we can,” said Ms Maimela.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

9 January 2025

DTIC notes ArcelorMittal South Africa’s decision

Location: News

DTIC notes ArcelorMittal South Africa’s decision

The steel industry is critical in the reconstruction and recovery plan for the South African economy, particularly the manufacturing, mining, construction, engineering, and transportation sectors, said the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic).

In a statement responding to ArcelorMittal South Africa’s (AMSA) announcement to wind down its longs steel business at its Newcastle plant, the department said the steel industry is important to the sectors that are at the centre of the industrialisation, localisation and beneficiation programmes of government.

“The department notes with serious concern the announcement by ArcelorMittal South Africa to wind down its longs steel business at its Newcastle plant. In fulfilment of its mandate to work with the private sector in growing the local economy the dtic remains committed to working with AMSA to find a workable and lasting situation,” it said in a statement on Wednesday.

During the course of 2024, AMSA had reached out to various government departments and state-owned entities with requests for different concessions for their business. Having taken heed of these requests, the Minister of the dtic took the decision to form a comprehensive and coordinated approach to resolving the issues raised by AMSA.

“In doing so, the Minister set up a technical working group made up of the relevant stakeholders including the dtic and AMSA, the departments of Electricity and Energy, Transport, as well as Eskom, Transnet and private sector stakeholders.”

The department said the working group held regular engagements up until and well into December 2024.

“This work has been noted in the statement released by AMSA. It has always been, and continues to be the intention of government to continue these engagements until a workable resolution to the problems faced by AMSA and the steel industry is reached,” said the department.

In a press statement on Monday, AMSA said it had taken the decision to wind down the longs business.

“This comes after sustained challenges, including weak economic growth, high logistics and energy costs, and an influx of low-cost steel imports, particularly from China. Persistent high logistics and energy costs, combined with insufficient policy interventions (especially those policy decisions made some time ago (namely, the Price Preference System [PPS] and export scrap tax) relating to the substantial subsidisation of scrap-based steelmaking operations to the detriment of the Newcastle Works - which beneficiates South African-sourced raw materials), have left the longs business unsustainable. Despite extensive consultations with government and stakeholders to find viable solutions to sustain the longs business, progress was insufficient to avert the wind down,” said AMSA.

In its statement on Wednesday, the dtic said that while the immediate task will be on addressing structural issues affecting AMSA’s longs steel business, the broader focus should also be on addressing productivity improvements and supply chain efficiencies, investments in low-carbon technologies, competitiveness and regaining the market share.

“It is also important that public and private sector’ entities and companies commit themselves to procure locally manufactured steel products in their projects. Undoubtedly, such a commitment will contribute positively to aggregate demand, job creation and economic growth in South Africa,” it said.

“AMSA will now transition the longs business into care and maintenance. Steel production is anticipated to cease by late January 2025, with the wind-down of the remaining production processes completed in Q1 2025,” said AMSA.

This wind down decision will directly affect operations constituting Newcastle (in KwaZulu-Natal) and Vereeniging Works (in Gauteng) and AMRAS (the rail and structural subsidiary).

Newcastle’s coke-making operations will continue, though scaled back to reflect reduced demand. - SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Thu, 01/09/2025 - 09:46

66 views

9 January 2025

eThekwini bans fishing activities in Umngeni Estuary

Location: News

eThekwini bans fishing activities in Umngeni Estuary

The eThekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal has announced the prohibition of recreational and fishing activities from the Umngeni Estuary to the Blue Lagoon non-bathing beach.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the municipality said the decision was in accordance with the Coastal Compliance Notice, issued by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE).

This follows severe sewage discharge near the mouth of the Umngeni River.

The directive by DFFE is in line with Section 59(1) of the National Environmental Management: Integrated Coastal Management Act no. 24 of 2008.

The city said it was conducting an extensive investigation to trace the source of the discharge of sewage effluent along the Umngeni Estuary.

“Once the investigation is complete, the city will undertake repairs to any damaged infrastructure that may have resulted in the discharge of untreated effluent into the Umngeni Estuary,” the municipality said.

According to the municipality, the key contributing factors to pollution and E. coli, particularly affecting estuaries and beaches, are due to the relentless theft and vandalism of the city’s sewer infrastructure, as well as illegal connections into the sewer system.

“The city is making every effort to attend to all infrastructural defects that may pose a risk to the environment and urges the public to report vandalism and the theft of infrastructure to police, so that perpetrators are apprehended,” the municipality said.

The municipality has urged fishermen to adhere to the fishing restriction at the Umngeni Estuary and Blue Lagoon “until further notice while the investigation is underway.” – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 01/09/2025 - 09:41

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9 January 2025

Reyneke Reflects on Series Win Ahead of the World Cup

Location: Sport

FRANSCHOEK: The SA U19 Women have concluded their three-match T20 series against USA U19 Women, winning the series 2-1 after a...

8 January 2025

Merck Foundation CEO Announced the Best African Women Researchers and African Young Researchers

Location: News

Merck Foundation announced the winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards winners 2024, 5 Researchers from 5 different African Countries recognized under two categories - Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers.

Merck Foundation also announced the Call for Applications for new edition of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards 2025 to empower Women and Youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, announced the Winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024, in partnership with International Federation of Fertility Societies -IFFS, Africa Reproductive Care Society - ARCS, Manipal University and African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission to recognize African Researchers for their valuable research work and contribution to empowering women and youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS expressed, “Since 2016, I have taken immense pride in recognizing the achievements of our MARS Awards winners. This year, we honor Six Winners in two categories: ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best African Young Researchers Awards.'

These awards celebrate their significant contributions to research, particularly highlighting the efforts of African women researchers, who remain underrepresented in this field. Through the MARS Awards, our mission is to empower young researchers in Africa and to specifically encourage and support women researchers by enhancing their research capabilities and promoting their vital roles in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).”

The winners of ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best Young African Researcher Awards' will be enrolled into research training at a premier research institute in India.

“And I am also very happy to share with you all that as promised, we provided an opportunity to our first-place winner of each category to attend the 11^th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary which was recently conducted in Tanzania, however, only Mr. Jules Irenge Mongane was able to attend it”, shared Senator Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation is committed to improving the lives of people and has been transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with its partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, by providing 2080 Scholarships for doctors from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

The MARS 2024 Award Winners are:

Winners of “MARS Best Women African Researchers Awards” 2024

Dr. Nompumelelo Lebogang Malaza, SOUTH AFRICA (First Position)

TOPIC: Association Between Biochemical And Epigenetic Markers With Glycaemic Control And Neonatal Outcomes In Diabetic Pregnancies

Dr. Dorotheah Obiri, GHANA (Second Position)

TOPIC: Immune dysregulation in placental malaria and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

Winners of “MARS Best Young African Researchers Awards” 2024

Dr. Jules Irenge Mongane, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO (First Position)

TOPIC: Association Between Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection And Tubal Factor Infertility In Bukavu, Democratic Republic Of Congo

Dr. Christian Chassem Lapue, GABON (Second Position)

TOPIC: Epidemiology of helminthiases in women of reproductive age living in Lambaréné and its surroundings, Gabon

Dr. Gebrhud Berihu Haile, ETHIOPIA (Second Position)

TOPIC: Incidence of neonatal mortality and factors influencing neonate survival in neonatal intensive care unit in Northern Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study

“I am also excited to announce the Call for Applications for the new edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024. This year, special focus will be again on “The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care,” added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS 2025 will have scientific support from African Union Scientific-Technical and Research Commission (AU-STRC); African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS), and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).

Details for MARS AWARDS 2025

Abstracts are invited from final year African PhD students and young investigators involved in research related to either of the following topics:

1) Women's Health

2) Infertility and Reproductive Health

All applicants should be primarily based at African Research Institutes and Universities, although collaboration within Africa as well as outside is also welcome.

Last Date of Submission:

Applications can be submitted till 30^th June 2025

How to apply:

Apply by clicking: https://apo-opa.co/406P6N1

Alternatively, the Applications and abstracts can be submitted via email to mars@merck-foundation.com, along with CV (including Name, Gender, Country, University/Hospital Name, Email address, Mobile Number) and the abstract document as an attachment.

Other Details:

All Abstracts will be peer reviewed.
Research Awards will be dedicated for two categories of Best African Women Researchers and Best Young Africa Researchers.
Winners will be eligible for Research Training in a prestigious Research Institute in India.
Top Winners will be invited to attend the 12^th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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8 January 2025

City of Tshwane declares Hammanskraal water safe for consumption

Location: News

City of Tshwane declares Hammanskraal water safe for consumption

The City of Tshwane Metro Municipality has announced that water supplied from the Magalies Klipdrift Water Treatment Plant to Hammanskraal is safe for consumption.

This comes after the completion of Phase 1 of the water treatment project.

The areas which fall under the first phase and have access to the clean water include Wards 49, 73, 74 and 75, which encompass Mandela Village, Marokolong, Ramotse, Kekana Gardens (also referred to as Steve Bikoville), and Babelegi Industrial.

The completion of Phase 1 of the project follows extensive testing conducted by the Department of Water and Sanitation, City of Tshwane, and Magalies Water, which confirmed that the water is now meeting all the required health standards for consumption.

In a statement posted on social media, X, on Wednesday, Tshwane Municipality Mayor, Dr Nasiphi Moya, explained that “extensive testing” was done before laboratory tests confirmed that “the water now meets all the required health standards for consumption”.

This comes after a process of purging the reticulation system, which was previously supplied by Temba Water Works, using clean water sourced from the new Klipdrift Package Plant.

Moya noted that the purpose of the prolonged purging process and accompanying inspections was to ensure that the system is fully rehabilitated, disinfected and safe.

“The successful delivery of services to Hammanskraal forms part of long-term projects by the city and the national government to ensure that the quality of water provided to this community meets the constitutional obligations enjoyed by many citizens in the country,” Moya said.

Moya said the Magalies Water Klipdrift package project consists of “four phases estimated to be completed in mid-2025”.

“With the completion of each stage, more areas in Hammanskraal will benefit. This will be complemented by upgrades to Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) being conducted by the city. The combination of these two projects will allow communities to benefit from a reliable and clean water supply,” the Mayor said.

Rooiwal WWTP tender first stage of investigation completed

Meanwhile, Moya reported that the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has this week confirmed that the first stage of its investigation into the Rooiwal WWTP tender has been completed.

She said this has resulted in criminal referrals to the National Prosecuting Authority and disciplinary referrals to the City of Tshwane.

“The mayoral executive welcomes the news of the completion of the first part of the investigation and is awaiting formal communication from the Special Investigating Unit to the city. We look forward to receiving the report and acting on its recommendations.

“Addressing the injustice of the failure to provide potable water to the residents of Hammanskraal must include consequence management for the failures and corruption of the initial project. The completion of the first part of the investigation by the Special Investigating Unit brings us one step closer to ensuring accountability,” Moya said.

The Mayor also acknowledged the residents of Hammanskraal for their patience and committed to addressing other challenges plaguing the area.

“We thank residents for their patience during the process of ensuring the safety of the water and will continue to work with Magalies Water and the Department of Water and Sanitation, to successfully deliver the future phases of the project,” Moya said.

For more than a decade, the community of Hammanskraal has suffered from a lack of clean, and constant water supply.

This led to the death of 32 people due to an outbreak of cholera in the area in 2023.

This prompted a visit to the area by President Cyril Ramaphosa, where he apologised to the residents. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 12:28

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8 January 2025

Condolences for families of 18 who died in KZN accident

Location: News

Condolences for families of 18 who died in KZN accident

The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy and the Deputy Minister of Transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have sent messages of heartfelt condolences and support to the families of the bereaved and injured following a major crash that resulted in the loss of 18 lives and one person sustaining serious injuries.

The crash occurred on Monday at approximately 20:30 on the N3 at Van Reenen’s Pass in KwaZulu-Natal.

“Reports received thus far indicate that a truck, a minibus and a light motor vehicle were involved in a multiple vehicle crash that resulted in 18 fatalities (13 adults and 5 children) and one baby seriously injured. The cause of the crash is unknown at this stage and will be subject to an investigation,” the Department of Transport said on Tuesday.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has dispatched a team of crash reconstruction experts and investigators to the scene to determine the cause of the crash.

The Minister and Deputy Minister have wished the injured a speedy recovery to good health.

"Our hearts and our prayers are with all the families, the loved ones and friends of the deceased and injured during this period of deep grief. We also wish a speedy return to good health to all who sustained injuries during this sad and tragic occurrence,” Creecy said.

The Minister and Deputy Minister have reiterated their call to motorists and all road users for heightened vigilance on the roads, emphasising the call and the appeal that road users must always take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others on the roads.

The Ministry of Transport reminds all road users of the following important road safety tips:

Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy.
Buckle up at all times.
Adhere to the speed limit.
Exercise extra caution when driving in inclement weather and maintain a safe following distance.
Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol.
Avoid using cell phones while driving.
Take regular breaks when driving long distances.
Pedestrians must cross streets at marked intersections.
Pedestrians must wear bright clothing when walking in dark areas.

- SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 08:41

186 views

8 January 2025

JMPD arrests more than 800 for speeding, driving under the influence

Location: News

JMPD arrests more than 800 for speeding, driving under the influence

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has arrested more than 800 motorists between 1 December 2024 and 5 January 2025 for driving under the influence (DUI) and excessive speeding.

Of those arrested, 512 were arrested for DUI and 364 were arrested by the department’s high-speed unit for speeding.

In a statement, the JMPD said it was carrying out road safety operations across the city as part of efforts to “combat lawlessness, enhance road safety, and address the alarming rate of serious and fatal accidents”.

“These arrests serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences associated with these offences. Driving under the influence and excessive speeding can lead to the loss of life, severe injuries, and legal repercussions, including fines, imprisonment, and the suspension or revocation of driving licences.

“Additionally, accidents can have devastating emotional and psychological impacts on victims, their families, and the broader community,” the statement read.

The metro police explained the dangers of speeding and driving while intoxicated.

“Driving under the influence of alcohol poses significant dangers not only to the driver but also to other road users. Impaired judgment, slowed reaction times, and diminished coordination greatly increase the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

“Excessive speeding is equally as dangerous. It drastically reduces a driver’s ability to respond to unforeseen circumstances, such as pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles, significantly increasing the severity of potential crashes,” the statement said.

The JMPD said it is ramping up its operations as the festive season draws to a close.

“The JMPD will continue its intensified operations, focusing on high-visibility patrols, roadblocks, stop-and-searches, and targeted enforcement in high-risk areas, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and the community.

“The JMPD urges all road users to exercise caution, adhere to traffic laws, and prioritise road safety,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 08:56

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8 January 2025

Preliminary probe sheds light on Van Reenen’s Pass horror crash

Location: News

Preliminary probe sheds light on Van Reenen’s Pass horror crash

The preliminary investigation into the horrific accident involving a truck and minibus at the N3 Van Reenen's Pass on Monday has revealed that the minibus taxi lost control and swerved toward the right oncoming traffic lane and collided with a truck head-on.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, said the initial stages of the investigation revealed that the truck driver was driving from Johannesburg towards Durban, whilst the minibus taxi was traveling from Durban towards Johannesburg.

“At the time of the collision, the truck was driving in the [right] lane southbound, whilst the minibus was driving in the [right] lane northbound. From the video footage obtained during this initial stage of the investigation, it is very clear that the minibus lost control and swerved toward the right oncoming traffic lane and collided with the truck head-on,” Duma said.

While the cause of the minibus losing control is unknown at this stage, Duma said they "strongly suspect" that the accident was due to heavy rainfall, speed, vehicle defect, or driver negligence.

He said the second phase of the investigation will focus on speed as the cause of the accident.

Duma also confirmed that a total of 17 people were declared dead on the scene of the accident, not 18 as initially reported. Only one passenger, a baby girl, survived, and is currently being treated in hospital.

“Based on the initial stages of the investigation, a taxi affiliated to Uncedo Taxi Association was travelling from Qumbu in the Eastern Cape to Johannesburg. Seven men, three women, three boys and four girls [were killed in the crash].

“I requested the HoD (Head of Department) and the entire team to visit the brave little girl in hospital. We are comforted by the fact that she is recovering, [and] we thank health professionals for ensuring the provision of quality healthcare,” Duma said.

Duma has extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased.

“At this stage, we wish to indicate that according to the owner of the minibus taxi, the families of the deceased have been identified and notified. Arrangements are being made by the owner and Uncedo Taxi Association for family members to travel to Ladysmith to identify their loved ones,” the MEC said.

Truck driver’s identity uncovered

The investigation has also discovered the identity of the truck driver – a 37-year-old Zimbabwean national.

“The truck belongs to Pangolin Logistics. We remain concerned about the fact that the driver of the trucking company contacted the owner of Pangolin Logistics before disappearing.

“We are asking ourselves many questions, [such as] who assisted him in disappearing from such a remote area at night?” Duma said.

Duma commended the dedicated team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate, including Emergency Rescue Services, and other key personnel who responded swiftly, as part of the rescue and cleaning up operation. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 12:45

26 views

8 January 2025

NW agriculture colleges set for new academic year registration

Location: News

NW agriculture colleges set for new academic year registration

Preparations are underway for the registration of first-year and returning students at agriculture colleges in the North West.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture and Taung Agricultural College are gearing up to commence the 2025 academic year, with both institutions set to reopen on 13 January 2025.

Registration for first-year students at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture will be held on 20 and 21 January 2025, and registrations for second and third year students will be held on 22 January 2025.

At the Taung Agricultural College, registrations for first-year students will be held on 20 - 21 January 2025, while registrations for returning students will be take place on 15 and 16 January 2025.

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako, urged prospective students to adhere to the registration dates and ensure that all required documentation is ready and complete on the day.

“Qualifying late or walk-in applications will only be considered subject to space availability during the registration period. Those interested in studying at the colleges are encouraged to apply during the next application window later in the year.

“Students requiring on-campus accommodation are advised that there is limited accommodation space and alternative accommodation arrangements should be made. Early planning is strongly encouraged to secure a spot,” Setlhako said.

For further details, prospective and returning students can contact the colleges directly.

For Potchefstroom Agricultural College, students can contact Ismail Haffejee on 079 515 8714 or email at IHaffejee@nwpg.gov.za during office hours.

For Taung Agricultural College, Vuyiswa Mziwakhe can be contacted on 060 504 8149 or email at charmmyv@icloud.com during office hours. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 09:25

122 views

8 January 2025

Winnie Khumalo’s Passing a Sad Loss to South Africa’s Music Landscape

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture has noted with deep sadness the passing of the art legend Winnie Khumalo on Tuesday. Ms Khumalo passed away after a short illness at 51.

Committee Chairperson Mr Joe McGluwa said Ms Khumalo's passing was a bad start to the year. “Ms Khumalo was a legend. It fills us with great pride that she has left us some good memories of her undeniable artistic abilities. The music industry benefitted greatly from her distinct voice and songwriting ability. The afro-pop music genre is poorer with her passing.”

Ms Khumalo supported so many legendary artists before she released her own albums, including the likes of Brenda Fassie. Mr McGluwa said this generation of artists should pick up the microphone and never let Ms Khumalo's star dim.

The committee sends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved Khumalo family and friends. “Go well, Ndlovukazi! Go well, Mntungwa. Who would ever forget the song ‘Baba kaMdudu,” said Mr McGluwa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

8 January 2025

Deadline looms for unconventional gas regulations inputs

Location: News

Deadline looms for unconventional gas regulations inputs

Interested parties have one week left to submit written comments or make inputs on the proposed Unconventional Gas Regulations.

The Department of Water and Sanitation has made provisions for a second round of public consultations and comments on the proposed Unconventional Gas Regulations.

Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, published the Gazette Notice 51642 on 22 November 2024, and granted the sector key stakeholders and the public sector 30 days to make representations on the proposed regulations.

The regulations include fracking, coal bed methane and underground coal gasification.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, department spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said the stakeholder engagements started early in December 2024 and were put on hold on 15 December 2024 to accommodate the holiday season.

“A new round of public consultations has since resumed on Monday, 6 January 2025, and members of the public can make written submissions, or attend stakeholder engagements to be announced in due course in order to make contributions.

“Interested parties have until 15 January 2025 to submit written comments or make input during stakeholder engagement processes,” Mavasa said.

The Department of Water and Sanitation has been tasked with the responsibility of formulating regulations that will oversee the use of water for exploration and production of onshore naturally occurring hydrocarbons that require stimulation, including hydraulic fracturing and underground coal gasification, to extract, commonly known as “fracking”, which is an activity of drilling underground to extract gas by the gas industries.

“These activities were announced in Parliament but were found to have adverse impact on the environment due to the chemicals used during fracking. As the department is mandated to protect, manage, control, and develop water resources, regulations guiding the activities of fracking were developed.

“The regulations will manage these activities as they have a possibility of contaminating the water resources, particularly groundwater. The department formulated these regulations as mandated by the National Water Act,” Mavasa said.

Mavasa explained that the first notice was published on 07 May 2021 and had provided a period of 60 days for the public to make written inputs on the regulations. However, it was extended by another 30 days following requests from affected stakeholders.

After considering the comments received and ensuring alignment with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Mavasa said the department has decided to regazette for public comments.

Members of the public are urged to send written submissions to unconventionalgas@dws.gov.za by 15 January 2025. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 10:46

70 views

8 January 2025

SA U19 Women Secure Series Lead

Location: Sport

FRANSCHOEK: South Africa U19 Women have clinched a 2-0 lead in their three-match T20 series against USA U19 Women following a...

8 January 2025

RTMC calls for responsible driving amid inclement weather conditions

Location: News

RTMC calls for responsible driving amid inclement weather conditions

With predictions of severe weather conditions in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal in the coming days leading to the weekend, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has urged all motorists to exercise extreme caution to avoid crashes.

The South African Weather Service has issued weather alerts for severe thunderstorms and disruptive rainfalls that are likely to affect visibility and travel between the hours of 6pm and 1am.

“This is likely to affect those who will be travelling on the N1 and R101 between Limpopo and Gauteng. Other routes that are likely to be impacted are the N11 from Alldays to Marble Hall, the R33 Lephalale via Marble Hall, R40 from Phalaborwa via Carolina to Barberton, R524 from Thohoyandou to Louis Trichardt, R71 from Tzaneen to Polokwane, as well as R81 from Giyani to Polokwane.

“In Mpumalanga, visibility will likely affect driving conditions along the following routes: N4 from Emalahleni to Johannesburg, N3 between Villiers and Heidelberg, N17 Oshoek border via Ermelo and Secunda to Johannesburg, the N4 from Lebombo border via Mbombela to Bronkhorstspruit,” RTMC said on Tuesday.

Driving conditions in some of these routes are likely to be affected by fog, which will make visibility poor.

Consider the following important safety tips:

Reduce speed: Wet roads can be slippery. Drive at a reduced speed to maintain control of your vehicle.
Maintain safe following distance: Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front to allow for longer stopping distances.
Use headlights: Keep your headlights on to improve visibility and ensure you are visible to other drivers.
Avoid sudden manoeuvres: Sudden braking or sharp turns can lead to loss of control on slippery surfaces.
Be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists: They may also be struggling with reduced visibility and challenging conditions.
Stay informed: Keep updated with the latest weather forecasts and traffic reports.

- SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 10:03

57 views

8 January 2025

CSA Names SA U19 Men’s Squads For Youth ODI And Test Series Against England

Location: Sport

JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced the South Africa Under-19 Men’s squads for the upcoming Youth One-Day International and...