South Africa

9 October 2024

Limpopo police on a manhunt for two alleged rapists

Location: News

Limpopo police on a manhunt for two alleged rapists

The Burgersfort Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offenses (FCS) Unit has intensified a manhunt for two unknown male suspects who allegedly raped an elderly woman in the Mecklenburg policing area on Monday morning at about 01:00.

It is alleged that the 71-year-old victim was asleep at her residence at Ga-Mashishi village, inside a consultation room, when she heard someone knocking on the window asking for her assistance. The victim is a practising traditional healer.

She then told him that it was late but the suspect forcefully opened the door and entered the house, accompanied by an unknown male.

The duo threatened to kill the elderly woman and dragged her to another room inside the yard and repeatedly raped her. One suspect is said to have left his accomplice with the victim.

The suspect seemingly fell asleep and the victim managed to escape from the room to seek assistance from her neighbours.

The perpetrators managed to flee the scene to evade arrest and the victim was later taken to a local hospital for medical examination.

The Provincial Police Commissioner in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has strongly condemned the incident and ordered the police to make use of the available resources to search for the suspects and bring them to book.

Anyone with information that can assist with the investigations is urged to contact the Investigating Officer, Constable Mildred Mabotsa, on 083 491 6337. Alternatively, they can call the crime stop number, 08600 10111, or their nearest police station or visit the MySAPSApp. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 10:22

236 views

9 October 2024

Relocation of Langa Rail Line Occupiers Delayed by Regulations

Location: News

Rezoning application to move people living next to the Central Line has taken more than a year

9 October 2024

DPWI Minister reflects on 100 days in office

Location: News

DPWI Minister reflects on 100 days in office

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has reflected on the work done in his department since coming into office 100 days ago.

The Minister’s focus has been on building a firm foundation in order to turn the country into a construction site and use public assets for public good.

Macpherson was appointed Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure on 3 July 2024.

Measures the Minister has implemented over the past three months include:

Reforming and strengthening the role of Infrastructure South Africa to become a single point of entry for all priority infrastructure projects to ensure that they are completed on time and within budget.
Meeting with a large number of financial institutions, technical advisory and construction specialists to drive new interest in the country’s construction book.
Tackling maladministration and corruption head-on by launching investigations into failed public sector construction projects, such as the nearly R1 billion that was spent on the Telkom Building projects in Tshwane.
Working with municipalities such as Tshwane, eThekwini and Cape Town to establish technical task teams between the cities and the department to address problem State-owned buildings, and to work together to use State assets for the public good.
Finalising two orders in Cape Town to remove people who have invaded State-owned properties at the Castle of Good Hope and the Waterloo properties to ensure the properties are used for the public good.
Tackling the construction mafia by organising an urgent summit in KwaZulu-Natal to develop a comprehensive response to the construction mafia with Ministers in the law enforcement cluster, and Public Works Members of the Executive Council (MECs) across the country.
Improving oversight of property management by moving the Prestige Unit, which was responsible for the Nkandla scandal, back to Director General’s office, and removing the ability of officials to spend up to R20 million without Accounting Officer approval.

The Minister said while a lot of progress has been made to bring stability to the department, these efforts need to be accelerated to turn the country into a construction site and use public assets for public good in order to grow the economy and create jobs.

“South Africans urgently need to start seeing the fruits of our interventions. I applaud the government officials and stakeholders in both the public and private sector, who have worked tirelessly with me over the past three months. There is truly a new energy within the department to deliver on our mandate.

“In the weeks and months ahead, we need to expedite our efforts to ensure that we get shovels into the ground, so that communities across the country can see the fruits of our work in practice.

“In the weeks and months to come, there will continue to be difficult decisions we have to make, but the choices we make today will be to our advantage in the future,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 11:00

282 views

9 October 2024

North West Provincial Government records improved audit outcomes

Location: News

North West Provincial Government records improved audit outcomes

The North West Provincial Government says it is on a promising trajectory concerning its audit outcomes compared to previous financial years.

According to the provincial government, this was revealed by the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGA), Tsakani Maluleke, in a meeting with North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi held in Klerksdorp, in the City of Matlosana Local Municipality, recently.

“The 2023/24 audit cycle, which ended on 31 March 2024, indicates that nine departments received unqualified audit outcomes, with two receiving clean audits.

“Only one department received a qualified audit opinion, with reduced qualification paragraphs,” a statement from the provincial government read.

Mokgosi is of the view that these outcomes signify a turning point on the province’s efforts to strengthen the rule of law, accountability, transparency and responsiveness.

READ | North West Premier welcomes improved audit outcomes

He maintained that only a well-run government, which prioritises good governance practices has the potential to unlock various investment opportunities for the province.

“We will not be able to lure investments and address challenges of unemployment if we don’t focus our energies on ensuring that we prioritise clean governance,” said Mokgosi.

With the North West extended unemployment rate hovering at around 55%, as per the Labour Survey Report of the Second Quarter, the Premier believes that part of addressing the scourge of joblessness is a functional government that can respond to the needs of the people.

“The audit outcomes serve as a glimmer of hope that we are on the correct developmental trajectory to address challenges confronting the province and create various socio-economic opportunities for our people,” Mokgosi said.

He said the progress that has been made gives credence to the work that has been carried out in rooting out challenges that led to the implementation of Section 100 of the Constitution by the national government a few years ago.

In terms of Section 100 of the Constitution, national intervention in a provincial administration may take place when a province cannot or does not fulfil an executive obligation in terms of the Constitution.

In 2018, President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the national government to invoke Section 100 in the North West. The intervention was subsequently withdrawn in March 2022.

Mokgosi has extended his gratitude to the oversight role played by the Provincial Legislature, led by Speaker Desbo Mohono, who facilitated the discussion; the Chief Whip of the majority party, Motlalepula Rosho, and Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa), Smuts Matshe.

According to the Premier’s Office, the team made valuable contributions to how the province can improve on the concerns raised by the AG. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 11:08

414 views

9 October 2024

Department announces gazetting of Remote Work Visitor Visa

Location: News

Department announces gazetting of Remote Work Visitor Visa

The Department of Home Affairs has announced the gazetting of the highly anticipated Remote Work Visitor Visa as well as the new points-based system for work visas.

In July 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa outlined the Government of National Unity’s (GNU) collective mandate in this area through his call to “overhaul the visa regime to attract skills and investment and grow the tourism sector”.

Just three months later, the Department of Home Affairs says it has delivered on this mandate through a set of worldclass reforms.

“The gazetting of all required elements for the Remote Work Visitor Visa and the new Points-Based System for Work Visas amounts to the single most progressive and pro-jobs regulatory reform South Africa has seen in decades,” said Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber.

He said the department’s meticulous attention to detail to ensure that these reforms are fit-for purpose and market-friendly has resulted in two products that begin to reposition South Africa as a world-class destination for investment and tourism to create thousands of new jobs for South Africans.

“Importantly, the new points-based system also introduces a transparent framework to adjudicate visas in order to tackle corruption,” he said.

According to the department, the Remote Work Visa “enables highly paid individuals who are employed abroad and thus do not compete with local workers, to spend their valuable foreign currency right here in South Africa, pay Value-Added Tax into the South African fiscus, eat at South African restaurants and buy South African goods and services from South African producers”.

The new Points-Based System for Work Visas combats corruption and inefficiency by cutting red tape and introducing a transparent points scale to objectively determine who qualifies for a Critical Skills or General Work Visa.

Additionally, for General Work Visa applications submitted outside of the Trusted Employer Scheme, a newly introduced threshold of R650 796 in gross annual income – which amounts to double the median income in the formal sector – will better protect existing jobs at the lower end of the market while injecting skills at the top.

Independent research commissioned by the Reserve Bank and the International Food Policy Research Institute shows that growing the number of high-end skills as a share of the total South African population by just 0.02%, can boost annual economic growth by up to 1.2%.

The same research projects that an enhanced visa regime can create seven new jobs for every additional skilled worker attracted into the economy.

“By harnessing the power of market-based regulatory reform to cut red tape and enhance transparency, Home Affairs is fighting corruption in our immigration system while delivering on the GNU’s apex priority to grow the economy and create thousands of new jobs for the people of South Africa.

“I want to thank the Presidency and Operation Vulindlela for their valuable support and I look forward to continue working together to roll out further reforms that combat corruption and create jobs,” Schreiber said.

As an interim measure, while the department lays the foundation for digital transformation to shift exclusively to online application and adjudication, applicants for the Remote Work Visa as well as for the Critical Skills Visa and General Work Visa under the new Points-Based System, can continue to submit applications through the relevant service providers and South African missions abroad.

The relevant documents can be accessed at dha.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 12:11

541 views

9 October 2024

SOEs urged to provide opportunities to young engineers

Location: News

SOEs urged to provide opportunities to young engineers

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy says State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) have a critical role to play in providing economic opportunities to young people, which will enable them to gain practical work experience in the construction sector.

Addressing media on Tuesday after inspecting the Germiston to Katlehong commuter rail line, the Minister said historically, SOEs played an important role in helping small enterprises to gain experience so that they can move up the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) register.

Contractors, who wish to work in the public sector, must register with the CIDB. The Register of Contractors (RoC) supports clients in infrastructure procurement, and categorises and grades contractors from 1-9, according to financial and works capability.

“In order to be able to do major construction, you must demonstrate that you have become accredited. This is an important role that SOEs have played historically, and it’s a role we want to ensure that these enterprises are once again being supported [to play].

“With regard to the training that we are offering young engineers, it’s really important that we give practical experience to young professionals. One of the major reasons we have so many unemployed graduates in our country is young engineers, particularly, struggle to complete the practical training that is required to become fully fledged and independent professionals.

“We really want to play our role in that regard because we believe that we have incredible talent in our country and we want to make sure that the talent is properly used for all the important infrastructure projects that we need to happen in our country,” the Minister said.

Work to upgrade the Germiston to Katlehong commuter rail line cost about R400 million. The upgrade will ensure that commuters have access to affordable public transport, as a ticket costs R14.50 while a monthly season ticket costs R169.

The upgrade included the rebuilding of a number of stations and rebuilding a substation to ensure a reliable source of electricity.

“In the course of this work, we have created 500 jobs for the local community. We have also been able to involve 34 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), and overall, throughout the whole country, we have 33 young engineers that are assisting us on our recovery programme,” the Minister said.

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) recovery programme includes recovering passenger rail services, improving safety and security, protecting assets, providing sound leadership as well as executing its capital programme.

“Our vision is that rail must form the backbone of our transport system for both passengers and freight. [We seek] to achieve 250 million tonnes of freight per annum through our freight corridors and 600 million passenger trips per annum by 2030.

“This will not only ensure that we are creating an affordable public transport system for working people and other commuters, but it will also ensure that we have a sustainable and reliable revenue stream for PRASA, so that we can continue to do the maintenance work that this whole system requires,” Creecy said.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, 20% of the working population walk to work due to being unable to afford other forms of transport that are available.

“This is a great inconvenience, time waster and decreases the productivity of those individuals who have to walk between 5kms and 10kms every day. It’s very important that we make this form of transport available for working people again.

“We still have nine priority lines that we must conclude, and we are close to having repaired 300 stations, but there are many more to be repaired. We are taking preventative measures to ensure the safety of our rail infrastructure.

“Seventy-five percent of the copper has been removed from this cabling and we have put in aluminium cabling, which is of less interest to the scrap dealers,” the Minister said.

Moreover, security guards have been deployed to ensure the safety of these lines.

“We are introducing technology, drone technology and technology that will alert us if there is consistent tampering with the line, and that will be helpful to the security guards because they will know where to look for intruders. We hope that these measures will ensure that rail transport is safer,” she said.

The Minister’s inspection took place as part of the department’s flagship October Transport Month campaign, which is now in its 19th instalment. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 12:41

366 views

9 October 2024

Law enforcement urged to act on shops selling expired food

Location: News

Law enforcement urged to act on shops selling expired food

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has called on law enforcement to clamp down on the selling of expired food in local spaza shops.

This follows the deaths of five children due to food poisoning after they consumed food from a local spaza shop.

Last month, the Gauteng Health Department revealed that some 207 incidents of food poisoning affecting children had been reported since February this year – resulting in the deaths of at least 10 children.

“The [committee] is deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of five school children. This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of bylaws to prevent the sale of expired and harmful goods, particularly in township areas, where many spaza shops, including those owned by illegal foreign nationals operate with little or no monitoring by Metro Police Officers and relevant authorities.

“The committee strongly condemns the continued sale of expired and fake goods which pose a serious threat to the health and safety of our communities, especially vulnerable children. The irresponsible behaviour of some spaza shop owners who put profits above the well being of the community is intolerable,” the committee said in a statement.

Furthermore, the committee called on authorities, including the Department of Health, to “take immediate and decisive actions to prevent further loss of life”.

“The committee calls on Metro Police Departments in various municipalities to enforce bylaws rigorously and ensure that all spaza shops are operating within the law, particularly in relation to the sale of consumable goods.

“It is essential that law enforcement agencies conduct regular inspections to monitor compliance and that immediate actions are taken against those found violating these laws.

“The committee further calls on the Department of Health to intensify its health inspections to ensure that all food products sold in these shops are safe for consumption and have not exceeded their expiry dates,” the statement read.

The committee said it would engage relevant stakeholders in a bid to stem the tide of food poisonings.

“The committee is concerned that the continued loss of life is partly due to the failures of Law Enforcement Agencies to fulfil their responsibility of conducting regular inspections and ensuring compliance by spaza shops. This lack of monitoring puts communities at risk and undermines the very fabric of public health and safety.

“We urge community members to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the sale of expired or fake goods. Together we must act to protect our communities, especially our children from such senseless tragedies.

“The committee will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders to ensure that swift action is taken and that necessary measures are implemented to project the health and safety of the people of Gauteng,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:44

299 views

9 October 2024

Phaahla to lead National Nutrition Week event on Thursday

Location: News

Phaahla to lead National Nutrition Week event on Thursday

The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, will on Thursday, 10 October 2024, lead the National Nutrition Week commemorative event in Cape Town.

National Nutrition Week is part of continued efforts to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition, healthy eating habits and active lifestyle to improve overall health.

The National Nutrition Week is commemorated annually in October to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition to promote better health, and to educate individuals and communities about healthy eating and making informed nutritional choices.

The theme for this year’s campaign is ‘Eat right for a better life!’, which serves as a clarion call for people to prioritise healthy eating, balanced nutrition, and make informed food choices for improved health outcomes.

“Healthy eating does not necessarily mean buying expensive food from big brands retailers but can include homegrown vegetables,” the Health Department said.

The event is organised in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) and other stakeholders in the sector.

“The focus of this year is on young people to teach them about the benefits of adopting health eating to invest in their future health to lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and other health conditions.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:19

131 views

9 October 2024

Prosper Shoniwa Drives Export Growth at RS South Africa

Location: Business

With over 14 years' experience in sales and management across Africa, Prosper Shoniwa has built a reputation for driving business growth and operational excellence. As the Export Sales and Operations Manager at RS South Africa (www.za.RS-online.com/web), Prosper combines his in-depth knowledge of international trade with a nuanced understanding of African market dynamics, positioning him as a key figure in the company's expansion efforts across the continent.

Prosper is an accomplished professional with a proven track record in export management and sales, having successfully navigated the complexities of diverse African markets throughout his career. His expertise spans multiple industries, where he has consistently demonstrated the ability to develop and execute strategies that achieve significant growth. His formal qualifications, including a Diploma in International Trade Management from the International Trade Institute of Southern Africa (ITRISA) and a Diploma in Marketing from the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), form the foundation of his business acumen.

Currently pursuing a BCom in International Business at MANCOSA, Prosper continues to enhance his skills to stay ahead in Africa's rapidly evolving business landscape. Fluent in English and French, Prosper has cultivated strong relationships across Sub-Saharan Africa, working with stakeholders ranging from corporate clients and distributors to EPCs and water utilities. He also has extensive experience consulting with engineers and working at the highest level with governments, making him a versatile leader in cross-border partnerships. His multilingual proficiency and deep cultural understanding have been instrumental in bridging gaps and fostering collaborations that transcend borders.

At RS South Africa, Prosper leads the company's export operations with a focus on delivering Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) solutions tailored to the unique needs of the African market. His leadership approach goes beyond delivering products; he is committed to building long-term partnerships that drive operational efficiencies and provide value-driven, sustainable solutions. Prosper's ability to anticipate market trends, negotiate deals, and implement innovative strategies ensures that RS South Africa's clients gain a competitive edge.

Prosper's vision for RS South Africa is one of transformation, where MRO solutions are not only efficient and value-driven but also innovative and responsive to the changing demands of African industries. His focus on client satisfaction, coupled with his strategic insight, positions RS South Africa as a preferred partner across Southern, East, and West Africa. Under Prosper's leadership, the company is set to redefine how businesses across Africa approach their operational needs, delivering customised solutions that enable seamless operations and continuous improvement.

With a commitment to operational excellence and a passion for driving growth in challenging markets, Prosper Shoniwa is at the forefront of RS South Africa's mission to expand its influence and deliver impactful MRO solutions across the continent.

For more information about RS Africa export solutions, visit their website (www.Africa.RSdelivers.com) and follow them on LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4gQsIiq) for regular updates on their impactful work.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.

PR Contact Person -
RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications & Content Specialist
RS South Africa
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366

Media Contact Person –
NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763

RS:
RS is a trading brand of RS Group plc, providing product and service solutions that help our customers design, build, maintain, repair, and operate industrial equipment and operations, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 750,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, and provide a wide range of product and service solutions to 1.1 million customers.

We support customers across the product lifecycle, whether via innovation and technical support at the design phase, improving time to market and productivity at the build phase, or reducing purchasing costs and optimising inventory in the maintenance, repair, and operation phase. We offer our customers tailored product and service propositions that are essential for the successful operation of their businesses and help them save time and money.

RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2023 reported revenue of £2,982 million.

Further information is available via these links:

LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3BFMc9t
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3zHkLLX
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/48gsLAt
RS South Africa: www.za.RS-online.com/web/
RS Africa Exports: https://apo-opa.co/47YHZK0
DesignSpark: https://apo-opa.co/3ZTYgxN
RS Group plc: https://apo-opa.co/3zEAYBC

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9 October 2024

SA, Norway Ministers to drive talks on climate change mitigation

Location: News

SA, Norway Ministers to drive talks on climate change mitigation

South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, and his counterpart from Norway, Minister of Climate and Environment Tore Onshuus Sandvik, have been appointed to steer informal consultations on mitigation before and during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29).

The Ministerial Pair was appointed by COP29 President-designate and Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources in the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mukhtar Babayev.

Minister George said he was honoured to accept the important and challenging assignment from the President-designate for COP29.

“The designation of South Africa as a ministerial co-facilitator recognises the country’s long-standing leadership role at the international multi-lateral climate negotiations in ensuring the voices of developing countries are well reflected in the multilateral deliberations, and our national level leadership to implement Just Transitions,” George said.

In their consultations, Ministers George and Sandvik will be engaging with parties and all negotiating groups to conduct informal consultations on concrete issues related to the content on mitigation and linkages to the process at large.

It is anticipated that the pair’s consultations will foster a comprehensive understanding among ministers and their delegations regarding the priorities, perspectives, and areas in need of political guidance in the lead up to and during COP29.

“This is the challenge of our time, and I am honoured to continue South Africa’s leadership,” George said.

The appointment comes as the Minister prepares to participate in this year’s Pre-COP event, taking place from 10-11 October 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Pre-COP29 brings together ministers to discuss the key political aspects of the negotiations, find solutions to outstanding issues, and set the tone for the upcoming COP29.

Minister Babayev will open Pre-COP proceedings on Thursday alongside COP28 President and United Arab Emirates Special Envoy for Climate Change, Dr Sultan A. Al Jaber, among others.

The opening will be followed by a Plenary discussion on the Road to COP29 and various Climate Change Labs. The second day of Pre-COP will consist of plenary discussions on “Unlocking the potential of Article 6” and “Taking forward the outcomes of the first Global Stocktake (GST)”, before proceedings are concluded. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:52

52 views

9 October 2024

Can Africa Secure Its Future in a Changing Energy Landscape?

Location: News

AOW: Investing in African Energy
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The pipeline of gas projects being developed in Africa has never been stronger. However, if the continent is to be competitive in an extremely dynamic international gas market, it must ensure that it offers value.

This means shaping an offer that meets the financial and environmental sustainability needs of stakeholders. Africa's gas investment proposition must be relevant and future-proof, if it is to continue to attract global capital.

This was the consensus at a panel discussion on Day 1 of AOW: Investing in African Energy – Africa's leading oil, gas and energy event.

Over the past few years, gas development ambitions have grown – in the public and private sector – supported by renewed exploration and production activity and pragmatic energy transition plans. This is especially true now, with gas increasingly accepted as the ideal bridging fuel, balancing the continent's growing energy needs with its decarbonisation commitments.

“Natural gas is at the centre of what we are doing in Africa,” said Mario Bello, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa Region at Eni. “It's the cleanest fossil fuel, producing fewer emissions than coal, so it plays an important role as we transition to renewables.”

Eni enables this through its Floating Liquified Natural Gas (FLNG) projects, particularly in Mozambique and the Republic of Congo. Bello emphasised the technology's ability to unlock stranded offshore gas resources, accelerate project timelines, and contribute to both domestic energy security and export revenue. “Floating LNG is the key to unlocking the region's gas potential, making it easier and faster to develop offshore resources,” Bello explained.

However, financing these ambitious projects remains a significant hurdle. Paul Eardley-Taylor, Head of Oil & Gas, Southern Africa, at Standard Bank, emphasised the need for bankable projects that address investor concerns, particularly around sovereign risk. He highlighted the transformative potential of both large-scale LNG projects and smaller, domestically focused gas ventures.

“The impact of these projects in African markets is incalculable,” Eardley-Taylor said, citing the potential for job creation, economic growth, and improved energy access. He further emphasised the importance of small-scale LNG and helium projects, particularly in markets like South Africa and Namibia.

Equinor's Senior Vice President for Africa, Nina Birgitte Koch, stressed the importance of a stable investment climate to attract international capital. She highlighted the need for competitive projects with strong environmental credentials, particularly in reducing carbon emissions. “CO2 is the key criteria,” Koch said. “It's not just a ‘nice to have' any more. I don't think it's possible to get capital to a big LNG project unless it's highly competitive when it comes to CO2."

The panel also discussed the critical role of technology and regional cooperation in maximising the benefits of Africa's gas resources. Gianluca Ciricugno, Africa Director, Enterprise Customer Solution at Baker Hughes, emphasised the need for a long-term vision and collaboration between governments, investors, and technology providers.

“It requires a broader vision, probably government and all the people around the table, with a long-term approach… and not just four-year terms,” Ciricugno urged, highlighting the need for stable regulatory frameworks and a commitment to infrastructure development.

Dr Tshepo Mokoka, Group COO of South Africa's Central Energy Fund (CEF), echoed the call for government intervention to address market failures and unlock investment. He outlined CEF's role in enabling critical gas infrastructure projects, such as the Romp pipeline and LNG import terminals. “We need to solve the market failure,” Dr Mokoka said, highlighting the need for government-backed gas offtake agreements and risk-sharing mechanisms to attract private capital.

ExxonMobil's Executive Director Global, LNG Marketing, Deri Irawan, emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to project development, considering not just the technical and economic aspects but also the social and political landscape. He highlighted the need for strong partnerships and stakeholder engagement to ensure long-term project success. “It is insufficient to just bring a commodity to the doorstep,” Irawan explained. “You also need to unlock that value chain.”

With Africa on the cusp of a gas revolution, the panel's message was clear: the continent has the resources, the ambition, and the opportunity to become a major player in the global gas market.

However, success hinges on creating a stable and attractive investment climate, embracing technological innovation, and fostering regional collaboration to ensure that Africa's gas resources benefit both its people and the planet.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AOW: Investing in African Energy.

Owned by Sankofa Events, AOW (https://apo-opa.co/3ZVcWNe): Investing in African Energy is Africa's leading oil, gas & energy event, uniting industry leaders to develop policy, share discoveries, secure investment, and shape Africa's energy future. The event runs from 7 – 10 October 2024 at the CTICC 2, Cape Town.

9 October 2024

Call to declare crypto assets with SARS

Location: News

Call to declare crypto assets with SARS

The South African Revenue Service has encouraged taxpayers with various digital currencies, which includes crypto assets, to declare these with its Voluntary Disclosure Programme (VDP) to facilitate compliance.

This comes as the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has noted the phenomenal growth in the use of various digital currencies by many South Africans.

Prominent amongst these is the prevalence of crypto assets. A staggering number of more than 5.8 million South Africans hold a crypto asset, with Southern Africa boasting the largest uptake of Bitcoin in the world.

SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter once more reminded taxpayers to honestly and dutifully honour their legal obligations by declaring all their income.

“SARS has been working ceaselessly to ensure compliance by all taxpayers, and those who are evading their responsibility make the burden of compliance difficult for compliant taxpayers.

“This is not only unfair to honest taxpayers but affects the vulnerable in society disproportionately by limiting the state’s ability to deliver social grants and other much needed social benefits.

“Let all know that technology has enhanced SARS’ ability to root out non-compliant taxpayers. Be warned, SARS will pursue all without fear, favour or prejudice,” the Commissioner said on Wednesday.

SARS is legally obligated to account for any income or assets held by taxpayers and had previously invited crypto exchanges and those involved in trading or holding crypto assets to disclose related activities on a voluntary basis.

“As a follow up, SARS will be including crypto assets into its compliance programmes. Consequently, SARS is engaging with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) regarding the provision of information on registered Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs). SARS is also receiving information directly from the local exchanges.

“Importantly, it must be underscored that through multilateral agreements SARS is exchanging information with other tax authorities globally,” SARS said.

The provision of offshore crypto accounts will be the subject of a multilateral agreement to be signed by Ministers of Finance in November 2024, which will catalyse the cross jurisdictional exchange of such information in respect of South African taxpayers.

“SARS believes that most taxpayers and traders are honest and that they expect to be assisted to fulfil their legal obligations. Pursuant to our legal mandate, SARS provides certainty and clarity about all legal obligations for taxpayers and traders.

“SARS is also working assiduously to make it easy and simple for taxpayers and traders to seamlessly comply with their obligations.

“Critically, it is our strategic objective to make it hard and costly for those who are willfully non-compliant. These efforts are intended to support our Strategic Intent of fostering a culture of voluntary compliance,” SARS said.

Resultantly, in addressing crypto compliance SARS is increasing capability in its audit teams to support enforcement initiatives.

SARS has resorted to greater use of artificial intelligence, machine learning and algorithms to process its work.

“In implementing our mandate, SARS has recently issued query letters to taxpayers with crypto assets. These letters aim to gain an insight into taxpayers’ investment in crypto assets and the trades undertaken to enable SARS to assess taxpayers’ compliance in this regard,” the revenue service said.

SARS warned taxpayers that the VDP, which facilitates compliance, has strict conditions.

“One being that taxpayers must approach SARS first. Once SARS has identified the taxpayer for audit, they are precluded from applying for the VDP,” the revenue service said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 09:58

639 views

9 October 2024

SAWS warns of severe thunderstorms in KZN

Location: News

SAWS warns of severe thunderstorms in KZN

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of potentially severe thunderstorms over the northwestern parts of KwaZulu-Natal with damaging winds, excessive lightning and hail on Wednesday.

“Scattered showers and thundershowers are expected over the western parts of KwaZulu-Natal, otherwise isolated,” the weather service said on Wednesday.

The impacts of these weather conditions include localised damage to infrastructure, settlements, vehicles, livestock and livelihoods.

SAWS has warned of localised injuries and danger to life due to lightning, as well as power surges due to excessive lightning.

Last week, SAWS encouraged the public to remain vigilant as the upcoming months of October and November could be affected by heatwaves, severe storms and the possibility of damaging winds.

READ | Weather Service warns of severe weather conditions

Seasonal Climate Watch

According to the Seasonal Climate Watch, dated October 2024 to February 2025, minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be mostly above-normal countrywide for the forecast period.

“The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently still in a neutral state and is predicted to weaken further. Current predictions indicate the development of a La Niña state during the start of the summer season. However, there is still significant uncertainty in the predictions.

“It is advised to monitor the ENSO system during the start of the summer season, as it may change the rainfall outlook for the summer rainfall regions, if and when the La Niña materialises,” SAWS said.

Current predictions focus on the early- and mid-summer seasons and indicate wetter conditions over the interior of the country.

“The northeastern parts, however, at this stage indicate drier conditions extending through to the mid-summer period. These predictions may change if the ENSO predictions become more certain towards a La Niña state and as such, continued monitoring of future seasonal climate watches are advised.

“The anticipated wetter conditions over the interior of the country during the early- and mid-summer seasons may improve water levels, particularly in regions that receive most of the rainfall in the summer season.

“Drier conditions, coupled with above-normal temperatures in the northeastern parts of the country, are likely to increase water loss and reduce water storage levels through evapotranspiration and drought, among other factors,” SAWS said.

The predicted wetter conditions during early- and mid-summer seasons over the interior of the country are likely to increase the likelihood of flooding in areas with inadequate drainage, posing immediate health risks such as drowning, injuries and hypothermia.

SAWS has encouraged the public to take precautionary measures and follow the guidance of local authorities.

“The forecast indicates nationwide temperatures above the average, heightening the risk of prolonged ultraviolet (UV) exposure, potentially exceeding level 3 on the World Meteorological Organisation's UV Index. This elevated UV exposure could result in a greater incidence of sunburn and other UV-related health issues.

“Moreover, the increased temperatures are expected to heighten pollen levels and heat exposure, enhancing the likelihood of skin and eye allergies, and accelerating the growth of food-borne pathogens.

"This escalation poses a heightened risk of foodborne illnesses. The public is advised to maintain strict food hygiene and adhere to local health guidelines under these conditions,” SAWS said.

Agriculture

Above-normal rainfall is forecasted for the central parts and the southeastern coastal areas of the country during the early and mid-summer seasons.

“This above-normal rainfall forecast for these summer rainfall regions will likely have a positive impact on crop and livestock production. However, below-normal rainfall is expected over most parts of the northeastern areas of the country, including Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

“Therefore, it is recommended that the relevant decision-makers advise farmers in these regions to implement soil and water conservation measures, proper water harvesting and storage techniques, establish effective drainage systems, and adopt other appropriate farming practices,” SAWS said. -SANews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 10:51

130 views

9 October 2024

IT Leaders Forum 2024

Location: Business

IT News Africa
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IT News Africa (www.ITNewsAfrica.com) is excited to announce IT Leaders Forum (https://apo-opa.co/3ZTrtsV) 2024, which will take place on November 5, 2024, at The Capital Empire in Sandton, South Africa. This premier event will bring together top technology decision-makers from diverse industries to explore strategies for resilience and innovation in the IT sector.

In the face of skilled labor shortages, economic uncertainty, and the rising demand for ESG compliance, IT leaders are increasingly turning to technology to enhance efficiency and profitability. The IT Leaders Forum (https://apo-opa.co/3ZTrtsV) 2024 (#ITLF2024) aims to help CIOs and IT executives tackle these business and technology challenges head-on. Industry experts will share insights on how to define and implement IT strategies that drive success.

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AI Ethics and Responsibility: What would you do?
The Evolving Role of the IT Leader: Skills and competencies required to lead in an AI-centric landscape
ESG Compliance and the IT Leader: Integrating Sustainability into Your IT Strategy

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Distributed by APO Group on behalf of IT News Africa.

Media Contact:
Nonhlanhla Kunene
events@itnewsafrica.com
+27 11 026 0982

9 October 2024

Department announces gazeting of Remote Work Visitor Visa

Location: News

Department announces gazeting of Remote Work Visitor Visa

The Department of Home Affairs has announced the gazetting of the highly anticipated Remote Work Visitor Visa as well as the new points-based system for work visas.

Just three months later, the Department of Home Affairs says it has delivered on this mandate through a set of worldclass reforms.

“Importantly, the new points-based system also introduces a transparent framework to adjudicate visas in order to tackle corruption,” he said.

The same research projects that an enhanced visa regime can create seven new jobs for every additional skilled worker attracted into the economy.

The relevant documents can be accessed at dha.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 12:11

40 views

9 October 2024

Carbon pricing poses threat to economies of developing countries

Location: News

Carbon pricing poses threat to economies of developing countries

While South Africa is committed to the decarbonisation agenda, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Narend Singh has raised concern that a carbon price to the production of emissions-intensive goods could exacerbate inequality, poverty and unemployment in developing countries.

“There are many hurdles which industry will be confronted with in their efforts to decarbonise, particularly in developing countries such as South Africa. Key for us is to take the necessary key steps to transition, without adversely affecting the competitiveness of such industries and leaving no one behind,” the Deputy Minister said on Tuesday.

He made these remarks during an Industry Conference on bridging compliance: Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and the South African metals and engineering sector.

The Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of Southern Africa (SEIFSA) in collaboration with the Danish Industry (DI) hosted the conference.

It was attended by senior government officials, industry leaders, policy makers as well as sustainability experts who explored the intersection of the looming CBAM and ESG reporting requirements from the European Union and how this is likely to affect the metals and engineering sector which is an export intensive sector. It is also a heavy emitter of greenhouse gas emissions.

ESG sustainability reporting requirements by business, point to responsible business conduct that includes taking measures to lower pollution, and carbon dioxide (CO2) output, and reducing waste.

“We remain concerned that outside of multilateral processes such as the United National Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), discussion and agreement [on] the CBAM policy design of using market principles to cut GHG [greenhouse gas] emissions will create a direct impact on developing countries’ such as South Africa, exacerbating inequality, poverty and unemployment. This we should take all measures to guard against,” Singh explained.

Carbon border adjustment mechanisms (CBAMs), or border carbon adjustments (BCAs), are mechanisms that aim to increase the consistency in the application of carbon pricing between goods produced in different jurisdictions but traded between those jurisdictions.

Most commonly, they involve a jurisdiction that applies a carbon price to the production of emissions-intensive goods, such as through an emissions trading system (ETS) or carbon tax, seeking to apply an equivalent carbon price to imports of those goods from overseas jurisdictions.

Carbon cost liability, reflections

Practically, this could mean that South African exports of carbon-intensive goods would face an extra carbon cost liability in some jurisdictions.

“The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has been actively engaged in the decarbonization of the steel sector. As you are well aware, the steel sector, is one of the hard to abate sectors, and is highly energy intensive.

“The department, in collaboration with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and in partnership with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), has been working closely with industry association, the South African Iron and Steel Institute (SAISI), and industry partner, ArcelorMittal, together with other players, to determine what may be the low hanging fruit for a low carbon transition.

“The entire value chain has to be reflected upon - both upstream and downstream players. This is work in progress, and indeed comes with its own set of challenges, in the form of necessary research and development, capacity development, and the much-needed capital investment,” Singh said.

Green steel

He mentioned green hydrogen, as an option for the production of green steel.

“Sectoring scrap metal market as input material for the steel sector to lower the carbon footprint, would be another option. Refurbishment of existing technology and investment into new and energy efficient technologies are other options.

“Downstream industries are also faced with competition on imports. Therefore, compliance and enforcement are important, and so is the provision of the necessary legislative measures,” the Deputy Minister said.

Just Transition

South Africa recognises the need for climate action to be centred on a Just Transition, meaning a transition to net-zero carbon emissions society that accommodates the needs of workers and communities, which may be negatively affected through the loss of jobs or activities as a result of a move to a lower carbon economy.

“The Climate Change Act, which was signed into law by President Ramaphosa in July 2024, sets out South Africa’s national climate change response, including mitigation and adaptation actions, which also constitutes South Africa’s fair contribution to the global climate change response.

“The Climate Change Act enables the alignment of policies that influence South Africa’s climate change response, to ensure that South Africa’s transition to a low carbon and climate resilient economy and society is not constrained by policy contradictions.

“The Climate Change Act also sets out measures to enhance South Africa’s ability and capacity over time to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and build climate resilience, while reducing the risk of job losses, and promoting new job opportunities in the emerging green economy,” said the Deputy Minister.

He added that the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) for South Africa have been informed by peak, plateau and decline in terms of carbon emissions reduction.

The NDC cover adaptation, mitigation as well as finance and investment requirements and is based on equity.

READ | Comments sought draft First Biennial Transparency Report

“The recent Bid Window of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), the work of the Just Energy Transition (JET), green hydrogen generation, are key steps in a positive direction.

“South Africa remains committed to stabilising the GHG concentration in the atmosphere and contribution to the global temperature goal of keeping temperature well below 2 °C and pursuing efforts to 1.5 °C below preindustrial levels in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibility and respective capabilities (CBDR-RC),” he said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 09:04

523 views

9 October 2024

Two illegal miners arrested at Makhonjwa World Heritage Site

Location: News

Two illegal miners arrested at Makhonjwa World Heritage Site

Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Narend Singh has welcomed the arrest of two illegal miners at the Barberton Makhonjwa World Heritage Site.

“The arrests mark a significant step in the government's ongoing efforts to protect South Africa’s irreplaceable natural and cultural heritage,” the Deputy Minister said on Tuesday.

Singh commended the actions by the Green Scorpions which resulted in the arrest of two individuals involved in unlawful mining activities within the Barberton Makhonjwa World Heritage Site on Monday.

The operation is part of the broader government strategy to combat illegal mining across the country and aligns with the nationwide efforts to tackle the rise in illegal mining operations, which are not only detrimental to the environment but also contribute to other social and economic issues.

The Barberton Makhonjwa World Heritage Site, forms part of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Centre and it is recognised for its well-preserved succession of volcanic and sedimentary rock formations dating back 3.5 billion years.

The area is home to rich a biodiversity and some of the planet's earliest life forms, attracting scientists and researchers from around the world.

It was officially proclaimed a protected area on 12 March 2021, under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act, which prohibits mining and other harmful activities in such sites.

"This World Heritage Site represents not only one of the oldest landscapes on Earth but also one of the most ecologically and scientifically significant. Unlawful mining and other destructive activities in this protected area pose a grave threat to the preservation of this unique site, which holds immense global value. These actions cannot and will not be tolerated,” the Deputy Minister said.

In addition to mining, the investigation uncovered violations under the National Forests Act, with evidence of destruction and damage to indigenous trees and natural forests.

“These offences not only threaten our natural heritage but undermine our sustainable development goals. Our natural forests and ecosystems are vital to the survival of countless species and are irreplaceable. We must act to protect them now, or risk losing them forever," Singh said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 09:23

218 views

9 October 2024

KZN hosts Emerging Property Developers’ Summit

Location: News

KZN hosts Emerging Property Developers' Summit

Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala will on Thursday address the maiden Emerging Property Developers' Summit, organised by the KwaZulu-Natal Property Sector Association in Zimbali, north of Durban.

The summit aims to assess progress made in the transformation of the property sector through access to land and finance by the emerging property developers.

The summit will also reflect on the emerging trends such as remote working on the property industry, obstacles and opportunities for previously disadvantaged sectors in the property industry.

The property sector, which is taking strain from the prevailing economic challenges, has experienced a huge decline.

Zikalala will give an update on the latest state of the property sector in South Africa and its reengineering programme, with the inclusion of emerging and young property players. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 10:08

175 views

9 October 2024

CPA Amendment Bill signed into law

Location: News

CPA Amendment Bill signed into law

President Cyril Ramaphosa has assented the Communal Property Associations Amendment Bill which amends the Communal Property Associations Act of 1996.

According to the Presidency, the amendments seek to provide improved protection of the rights of communities who are part of communal property associations and to bring clarity on the objective of Communal Property Associations (CPAs).

“The new law also provides for general plans for land administered by associations, for the establishment of a Communal Property Associations Office, and for the appointment of a Registrar of Communal Property Associations,” the Presidency said.

Furthermore, the CPA Act is applicable to “communities who acquired property through restitution by court order, in terms of the Restitution of Land Rights Act, 1994 (Act No 22 of 1994), or any law, provided that such communities form associations in accordance with the Act”.

“The law makes it clear that land will be owned by residents who are members of associations, and not by the associations themselves.

“As amended, the Act seeks to overcome challenges experienced by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform in implementing the Act over the years.

“Challenges have included the abuse of power by persons elected to serve in committees of associations; the lack of authority of the state to intervene in affairs relating to communal property; and the department’s limited monitoring and oversight of associations due to a lack of capacity,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 09:07

10 views

9 October 2024