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The 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series will reach an exciting conclusion on National Heritage Day (Tuesday 24 September 2024) as 11 500 runners take to the streets of Johannesburg for the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. To ensure a seamless race day experience, event organisers are urging participants to make use of …
Government of National Unity will thrive, says President
Following a meeting of the party leaders last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa says in his weekly newsletter that he is even more convinced that the Government of National Unity (GNU) is essential for the growth and development of the country.
“I am convinced that the GNU will not only survive, but that it will thrive. South Africans expect the GNU to succeed, and we will not let them down,” the President said.
On Wednesday last week, the leaders of the parties that form the GNU met to reflect on how the GNU is working.
Three months have passed since 10 parties represented in Parliament signed a Statement of Intent committing themselves to work together in government and Parliament to advance the country’s interests.
The parties agreed to certain fundamental principles, including to respect the Constitution and the rule of law and to promote accountability, transparency, integrity and good governance.
The parties also agreed on a common minimum programme that would form the basis of the work of the GNU. At its first Cabinet Lekgotla in mid-July, Ministers and Deputy Ministers drawn from the GNU partners, together with Directors-General and other officials, developed priority actions to give effect to the minimum programme.
Since these priority actions were outlined in the Opening of Parliament Address on 18 July 2024, the President said Ministers and Deputy Ministers have been hard at work to implement the tasks assigned to them.
“For a few Ministers and Deputy Ministers, being in the Executive is a new experience and for some it has been quite an adjustment. But with the support of their departments, they have all hit the ground running. Across all parties, Ministers and Deputy Ministers are making headway in confronting the challenges the country faces.
“What is significant and most welcome is that the members of the Executive have undertaken their work as part of a Cabinet collective. Although they are drawn from different parties, they have pursued the common GNU programme. They have worked in a spirit of cooperation and collaboration as Cabinet colleagues to serve the interests of the South African people,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa added the members of the Executive have each understood their role in advancing the three strategic priorities of the seventh democratic administration.
“The priorities are clear – a commitment to drive inclusive growth and job creation. A clear focus to reduce poverty and to tackle the high cost of living. A resolve to build a capable, ethical and developmental state.
Ministers and deputy ministers have been focused not on the interests of their respective parties, but on the common mandate they have received to build and develop the country,” he said.
The President said there was general agreement among the party leaders last week that the GNU has made a good start. They believe that the GNU is working well and that everyone is playing a constructive role.
“As party leaders, we nevertheless recognise that the parties in the GNU represent a range of political and ideological perspectives. There are issues on which we disagree and there will be times when differences between the parties will become more apparent.
“A case in point has been the debate around the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill, which I signed into law last week. Even as the leaders were meeting last week, some parties in the GNU were publicly urging me not to sign the Bill, while others were saying that I should sign the Bill,” he said.
The President highlighted that the Constitution is quite clear on the responsibilities of the President with respect to signing legislation.
He explained that once a Bill has been passed by Parliament, the President must either assent to the Bill or, if they have reservations about its constitutionality, refer it back to Parliament.
“Since, after considering all the various submissions, I had no such reservations about the BELA Bill, the Constitution obliged me to assent to it. However, even as I signed the Bill, I noted that some of the parties in the GNU said they wanted to engage each other on parts of the bill dealing with issues of school admissions and language.
“To give the parties time to discuss these issues, I said we would delay implementation of the Act in order for parties to engage and come up with proposals, if any, on the relevant clauses,” the President said.
In taking this approach, President Ramaphosa said he sought to establish a culture of openness and dialogue among the GNU parties.
“We are also drawing on a long history in South Africa of engagement among parties on matters on which they seem far apart.
“As times, agreement can be reached when matters come to a head at the last minute enabling all parties to focus on finding solutions and discovering that there is more that unites them than what separates them. We cannot guarantee that the parties that have requested timeout to engage will reach agreement on every difficult issue. But we need to make every effort to find common ground,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 09/16/2024 - 10:43
Corrections Week kicks off
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has kicked off Corrections Week to promote awareness and understanding of South Africa’s corrections system.
The week is commemorated during September every year.
This year, the week is commemorated under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy Towards Shaping the Future of Corrections”.
The department said the country’s transformation since the fall of Apartheid 30 years ago is intertwined with that of corrections.
“Since 1994, DCS has significantly reformed the correctional system, including playing a major role in the renaming of the United Nations [UN] Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners to the ‘Nelson Mandela Rules’, by the UN General Assembly in December 2015, which is assisting South Africa to speed up transformation towards a people’s developmental correctional system that is consistent with various principles and guidelines.
“Remarkable success has also been achieved in implementation of the DCS Strategic Framework on Self-Sufficiency and Sustainability [SFSS]. Such notable strides bear witness to the reality that offenders can, indeed, be rehabilitated. Using the SFSS, amongst others, as a springboard, DCS has a strong case for its cause of successful offender rehabilitation and, consequently, fruitful social reintegration,” the department said.
Corrections week is based on the notions that:
• rehabilitation, and not punishment, works in correcting offending behaviour and
• family, community and societal involvement is critical in all of the rehabilitative and social reintegration work that DCS implements on a daily basis.
“The backbone of Corrections Week activities, therefore, is the willingness of DCS to provide opportunities for citizens to witness the value of education, skills development and training, spiritual care, arts and culture, life skills programmes as well as community corrections in preparing an offender for life out of incarceration.
“The involvement of offenders in caring for their community, in taking responsibility for their fellow offenders and their families, are stepping-stones to the reintegration of these individuals into a society equipped to strengthen the moral fibre of society,” the department said.
As the department works to rehabilitate offenders, community participation in the process is vital.
“Relationships between DCS and the community, community-based organisations, NGOs and faith-based organisations are inherent to the successful achievement of the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders, as well as ensuring a victim-centric correctional system.
“To this end, the participation of the community in ensuring that victims of crime have a voice, and in strengthening and enhancing the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders, is crucial,” the department said.
The department called on South Africans to join hands in order to fight crime and restore dignity to all.
“Over the last 30 years, Correctional Services has restored the dignity of millions of offenders and changed their lives for the better. Together let us continue to build a South Africa where the values of human dignity, non-racialism, non-sexism and the rule of law remain paramount.
“Let us extend our social net to the most vulnerable in our midst and help build a more inclusive society,” the department said.
Corrections Week runs from 15 to 21 September. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 09/16/2024 - 11:40
South Africa joins the global community today, 16 September 2024, in commemorating the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer under the theme "Advancing Climate Action."
This year marks 36 years since the implementation of the Montreal Protocol, with the United Nations observing Ozone Day. This year's celebration aims to raise awareness about the critical role the ozone layer plays in protecting life on Earth and to highlight the need for concerted global efforts in mitigating climate change.
World Ozone Day highlights the importance of protecting the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This year's theme serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility we all share in reducing ozone-depleting substances and working collectively to ensure a healthier planet for future generations.
On this day, we not only celebrate the significant progress achieved but also look toward the future for deeper and faster action under the Montreal Protocol. The Protocol has positively impacted the recovery of the ozone layer and the reduction of climate change and its Kigali Amendment, through the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and improved efficiency in the cooling sector, is expected to deliver additional climate mitigation benefits.
World Ozone Day 2024 serves as a vital reminder of the interconnectedness of the ozone layer and climate change. The celebration will foster a spirit of unity and purpose among participants globally, reflecting a collective commitment to advancing climate action. As the planet faces unprecedented environmental complexities, it is imperative that communities and nations remain engaged and proactive in their efforts to protect the atmosphere for future generations.
As countries move forward, the emphasis will be on implementing policies that prioritize both ozone layer recovery and climate protection. Continuous education and global cooperation are essential to ensure a sustainable future.
As part of the celebrations, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) will, on 26 September 2024, hand over tools to 402 trained informal Refrigeration and Air Conditioning servicing technicians in Gauteng province. These tools will be issued alongside a Competence Certificate and a SAQCC Gas/SARACCA Refrigerant Safe Handling Registration Card.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
The Limpopo's permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will, together with their provincial counterparts, conduct inspection in loco to incomplete, delayed, or abandoned infrastructure projects under Lephalale, Thabazimbi and Mogalakwena local municipalities from Tuesday to Thursday.
These oversight visits form part of the NCOP's flagship National Provincial Week programme marked under the theme: Confronting the challenges facing the timely delivery of viable public infrastructure to communities.
On Tuesday, the programme will begin with presentations on the state of provincial and municipal infrastructure through a hybrid meeting at the Lephalale Local Municipality offices located at the corner of Joe Slovo and Douwater roads in Lephalale.
The following are expected to brief the permanent delegates together with Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs): The Premier; MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure; MEC for Co-operative Government, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs; Mayors of Waterberg District Municipality as well as Lephalale, Thabazimbi and Mogalakwena local municipalities; South African Local Government Association, the Auditor-General and the Department of Water and Sanitation.
In the afternoon, the permanent delegates and MPLs will then conduct inspection in loco to housing and water projects in Marapong and Thabo Mbeki townships.
On Wednesday, 18 September 2024, they will visit the Northam's wastewater treatment plant, water reticulation upgrading project and internal roads in Ward 8, as well as the housing project at the Regorogile Extension 8 in Ward 9.
On Thursday, they will proceed to a road project at R572 between Tomburke and Swartwater; as well as water boreholes in Taolome, Van Wyk's span and Ga-Masipa Village; Waterberg Nursing College and Valtyn Moshate Local Stadium.
The programme will then be concluded on Friday with a report back session on the state of provincial infrastructure and progress in confronting the challenges facing the timely delivery of viable public infrastructure to communities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
BeiGene, Ltd. (NASDAQ: BGNE; HKEX: 06160; SSE: 688235), a global oncology company with a growing presence in South Africa, is proud to support both global and local initiatives for Blood Cancer Awareness Month. The company is focused on raising awareness about B cell malignancies, a group of cancers that affect B lymphocytes. These include mantle …
Deputy President in good health
The Presidency says Deputy President Paul Mashatile is in good health after he felt unwell during an event in Limpopo on Saturday.
The Deputy President attended the N’wamitwa Day celebrations at the Valoyi Cultural Village in Tzaneen, Limpopo.
While delivering his keynote address, the Deputy President felt lightheaded from the heat and was attended to by his medical team.
Following the incident, the Presidency issued a statement on Saturday confirming that he had received the necessary medical attention and was well.
On Sunday his office issued a further update, saying the Deputy President was in good health.
“Following the unfortunate incident yesterday, the Office of the Deputy President confirms that Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile is in good health.
“This is consistent with the doctor’s report yesterday. He is in high spirits and is resting at home following his travel back to his home yesterday,” said his office.
The Presidency thanked the team that supports the Deputy President from the Presidential Protection Service and the Presidential Medical Unit for their speedy response in attending to the Deputy President and ensuring that he is in good health.
“The Deputy President also thanks all South Africans for their support and prayers.”
N’waMitwa Day unites vital aspects of democratic society
Meanwhile, in his prepared speech, Deputy President Mashatile said the 16th anniversary of N’waMitwa Day united vital aspects of the democratic society and demonstrated the country's progress in advancing the constitutional values of gender equality and non-sexism.
He said Her Royal Highness Hosi Dr N'waMitwa II's accession to the throne symbolised resilience and progress in the country's ongoing journey to realise women's full potential in leadership roles.
"Her path inspires all, particularly the millions of South African women whose voices and contributions are essential in shaping our nation’s future. We are proud that you have upended patriarchy by claiming your rightful place on the Valoyi royal throne.
"You have demonstrated to women that their role extends beyond the norm, and they can assume leadership positions in society, performing equally or better than men. What remains is that we must fight patriarchy and stand together as government and traditional leaders to root out the persistent inequalities and Gender-Based Violence (GBV), which continue to erode social cohesion in South Africa." – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Sun, 09/15/2024 - 14:56
The Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour (DEL) Mr Jomo Sibiya has urged one of the Labour Department ‘s entities, Productivity SA to increase its visibility amongst South African businesses and also widen its reach to SMMES in the country. Delivering the keynote address at the 2024 Productivity SA Annual General Meeting (AGM), Mr Sibiya …
Deputy President well after N’wamitwa Day celebrations address
The Presidency has given the assurance that Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, is well after he collapsed during the N’wamitwa Day celebrations in Tzaneen, Limpopo.
Mashatile attended the N’wamitwa Day celebrations at the Valoyi Cultural Village in Tzaneen on Saturday.
The Deputy President, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Presidential Task Team on matters of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, addressed the celebrations under the theme “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”.
While delivering his keynote address, the Deputy President felt lightheaded from the heat and was attended to by his medical team.
“We can confirm that the Deputy President has received the necessary medical attention and is well,” said Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, Keith Khoza, in a statement.
N’waMitwa Day unites vital aspects of democratic society
In his prepared speech, Deputy President Mashatile said the 16th anniversary of N’waMitwa Day united vital aspects of the democratic society and demonstrated the country's progress in advancing the constitutional values of gender equality and non-sexism .
He said Her Royal Highness Hosi Dr N'waMitwa II's accession to the throne symbolised resilience and progress in the country's ongoing journey to realise women's full potential in leadership roles.
"Her path inspires all, particularly the millions of South African women whose voices and contributions are essential in shaping our nation’s future. We are proud that you have upended patriarchy by claiming your rightful place on the Valoyi royal throne.
"You have demonstrated to women that their role extends beyond the norm, and they can assume leadership positions in society, performing equally or better than men. What remains is that we must fight patriarchy and stand together as government and traditional leaders to root out the persistent inequalities and Gender-Based Violence (GBV), which continue to erode social cohesion in South Africa." – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 09/15/2024 - 08:24
MAGGI is thrilled to introduce its “Cook The Difference” campaign which aims to inspire home cooks across South Africa to unlock their culinary potential. By emphasizing the versatility of MAGGI products, the campaign encourages consumers to prepare fresh, flavourful, and sustainable meals that reflect their personal taste and values. MAGGI’s objective is to guide consumers …
Municipalities called to prepare for Lesotho water project shutdown
Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, has called on all the affected municipalities in the Free State to expedite plans to continue to provide water to during the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel shutdown in the next two weeks.
The LHWP tunnel will undergo maintenance from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025.
The Minister engaged with the Executive Mayors of Thabo Mofutsanyana and Fezile Dabi District Municipalities in Bethlehem on Saturday.
Majodina was accompanied by Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, Deputy Minister of Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation Seiso Mohai, and Free State MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Saki Mokoena.
Majodina noted that during the outage, there will be no water deliveries from Lesotho to South Africa.
“It is therefore important for municipalities to ensure that water security measures are maintained and various water enforcements mechanisms like water restrictions are applied by the municipalities.
“Although some municipalities are still lagging behind in terms of their readiness, we as the department, are giving them the support that they need,” Majodina said.
The six-months shutdown will jointly be undertaken by the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA, which operates and maintains Lesotho section of the LHWP tunnel system, and the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) responsible for operation and maintenance of the section within South Africa.
The tunnel system requires general inspections and repair works to be conducted at approximately five year intervals to ensure the integrity and reliability of the entire water tunnel system.
Due to the tunnel shutdown, 700 million m3 per annum will be transferred in 2024, resulting in a shortfall of 80 million m3 from the normal annual transfer volume.
However, the Department of Water and Sanitation has embarked on relief interventions for municipalities along the Caledon River, Wilge River, Vaal River and Rhenoster River.
The interventions include the upgrading of water treatment works, upgrading of raw water pumps, upgrading of abstraction works, the construction of new reservoirs as well as the development of groundwater resources by drilling and equipping boreholes.
Majodina noted that while all these projects are under way, some of the municipalities are behind schedule with the implementation of the projects.
“Where necessary, the Department of Water and Sanitation will intervene to support the municipalities to complete the projects which are critical in ensuring sustainable water supply to communities during the tunnel system shutdown,” Majodina said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 09/15/2024 - 11:40
Gordhan to be honoured with Special Official Funeral
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that struggle stalwart and Cabinet veteran Pravin Gordhan will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2 on Thursday, 19 September 2024.
Former Minister Gordhan passed away in the early hours of Friday, 13 September 2024, at the age of 75, following a period of illness.
“On Thursday, 19 September, Gordhan will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral which will encompass ceremonial elements performed by the South African Police Service. Details of this occasion will be made known in the coming days,” said the President’s office on Friday.
The President has also directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast from Saturday, 14 September 2024, until the evening of the funeral.
Gordhan served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017.
He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 until 2015, and as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until his March 2024 announcement of planned retirement.
Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after a period as Deputy Commissioner.
According to the Presidency, his contribution to the public sector arose from his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle, including his role in student and civic movements in the 1970s and 1980s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress and military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress.
“President Ramaphosa has offered his deep condolences to Mr Gordhan’s spouse, Ms Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, as well as the former Minister’s older brother, Manecklal Gordhan, and sister Shanta Harilal.
“The President’s thoughts are also with the former Minister’s extended family, comrades, associates and organisations with whom he established relationships as a family and community member, freedom fighter, public sector executive and Member of the National Executive,” said the Presidency.
President Ramaphosa, who visited Gordhan in his final hours, has paid tribute to the former Minister as a leader who had fought to liberate South Africa from the shackles of apartheid, from inequality, from poverty and from hunger.
The President said Gordhan had been driven by a vision of a society in which all people may achieve their full potential and in which all may realise their dreams. - SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Sat, 09/14/2024 - 10:05
President declares Special Official Funeral Category 2 to honour late Minister
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2.
Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer. He was 75 years old.
The late former Minister will be laid to rest in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday, 19 September.
Speaking during the signing ceremony of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill in Pretoria on Friday, President Ramaphosa said Gordhan was one of the most principled and courageous freedom fighters the country has produced.
“South Africans woke up to the sad news of the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan. I had the occasion to go and spend some time with him last night in hospital as I returned from Cape Town before he passed on.
“I was able to get a moment to speak to him even though he could no longer hear me. But it was a sad moment for me to be able to watch him as he was passing on to his journey to another world,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the Minister’s wife, Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, as well as his family members across the world.
“Gordhan dedicated his life to the struggle and freedom of our people, he fought to liberate this country from the shackles of apartheid. From inequality, poverty and hunger, he is one person who was driven by a vision of a society in which all people have achieved their full potential and which all may realise their dreams.
“I have decided that we will have an official funeral to say our goodbyes to him as a nation,” the President.
READ | Tributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan
Gordhan served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017. He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 until 2015. He also served as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until announcement of his planned retirement in March.
Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after serving as the Deputy Commissioner of the revenue service.
His contribution to the public sector arose from his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle, including his role in the student and civic movements in the 1970s and ‘80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress and military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress.
During South Africa’s transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue and was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
The year 2023 marked 50 years since Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree which led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 15:08
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Xola Nqola, today welcomed the approval of the Legal Sector Code of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act.
Mr Nqola said the Code will go a long way in transforming the sector and will do so speedily. He said drafting the Legal Sector Code started in the previous administration. “This process has paved the way for the legal sector to achieve its B-BBEE objectives and will lead to faster transformation of the sector, which has thus far been very unequal, especially in complex legal matters and state procurement,” he said.
The objectives of the Code, which was approved by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau, yesterday, include a target of 50% black representation and 25% black women ownership over five years, as well as management control in executive and board participation. The Code also targets 50% representation of black practitioners and 25% for black women practitioners, particularly as equity partners and associates.
“These targets will clearly drive transformation of the legal sector at a much faster pace than what has been happening up to now,” said Mr Nqola.
The Code is aimed at a skills development target of 3.5% expenditure on training programmes for black candidates. The aim is also to ensure training in specialised skills for black legal practitioners, candidate legal practitioners and black junior advocates within the designated categories: black women, black youth, black people with disabilities, and black people from rural areas. The Code also has a procurement target of 60% for the private sector, and a target of 80% is to be achieved through the specialised procurement scorecard applicable to the public sector.
Mr Nqola said this would ensure black practitioners have better opportunities to specialise in specialised areas of law when the state procures legal services from black legal entities. “This is a step in the right direction. Transformation in this sector has been too slow, leading to black practitioners being overlooked due to either lack of experience or exposure,” he said.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education Chairperson, Ms Joy Maimela, today welcomed the signing into law of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill.
The BELA Bill was assented into law today by President Cyril Ramaphosa. However, the President put on hold clauses 4 and 5 of the Bill for three months in order to find solutions to those clauses. Should no solutions be found, the Bill will be implemented fully.
Ms Maimela said the legislation has been more than 11 years in the making and is in line with continuing the transformation agenda of the education sector.
Among other things, the Bill makes Grade R the new compulsory school-starting age; provides for penalties for parents who do not ensure that their children are in school; and confirms that corporal punishment is no longer allowed at schools, with penalties for those found guilty of such offences.
The Bill amplifies the corporal punishment definition and brings in the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) definition because it is constantly used now in the Act and the Bill. The Act further expanded the powers of the courts in dealing with sentencing and penalties by adding that the courts' discretion is best placed to decide such matters in accordance with the CPA, with regards to parents or guardians who disregard the requirement to ensure children are in school.
In terms of language policy, the amendment states that the governing body must submit the language policy of a public school and any amendment thereof to the head of department for approval. The language policy must also take into consideration the language needs of the broader community. “The committee notes that this relates to one of the clauses that the President put on hold for three months. We look forward to the engagement on this but continue to call for the full implementation of the Bill,” the Chairperson said.
In terms of the Bill, home education is allowed but must be regulated in terms of site visits that can happen at any place of choice, should the parents not agree to such visits at their homes. Furthermore, a report at the end of each phase will now be required by a qualified educator or assessor to prove the competency of the learner in that phase.
“The committee commends the President for signing into law this very progressive piece of legislation that will see the landscape of schooling in South Africa changing for the better. This is indeed what South Africa needs at this stage,” Ms Maimela said.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
The Coca-Cola Company in Africa (www.Coca-ColaCompany.com) and its bottling partners Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA), Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company (ECCBC) and Coca-Cola HBC announced a nearly USD 25 million investment to help address critical water-related challenges in local communities in 20 African countries, starting this year through 2030. The work will be led by Global Water Challenge (GWC) and implemented by a consortium of partners, including The Nature Conservancy (TNC), The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
The effort, called ‘The Coca-Cola System's Africa Water Stewardship Initiative', was introduced in Cape Town, South Africa, in presence of executives from the Coca-Cola system in Africa and NGO partners. During the event, Karyn Harrington, Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability at The Coca-Cola Company's Africa Operating Unit indicated “Water is a priority for The Coca-Cola Company and its local bottling partners because it is essential to life, the communities we serve and our beverages. As we face increasing water insecurity worldwide, with demand outstripping supply in many regions such as Africa, Coca-Cola is taking steps to help accelerate efforts to address water stress, protect local water resources, and build community climate resilience. Our 2030 Water Security Strategy focuses on helping enhance water security where we operate, source ingredients, and touch lives.”
“One in three Africans face water insecurity. The Global Water Challenge and ‘The Coca-Cola System's Africa Water Stewardship Initiative' partner coalition will seek to improve water security for millions across the African continent, helping advance community health and resilience through abundant, clean water. We applaud Coca-Cola's continued leadership on African water security” said Monica Ellis, CEO of GWC.
‘The Coca-Cola System's Africa Water Stewardship Initiative' aims to help protect and enhance the health of important watersheds and to help improve access to water and sanitation services in local communities. We will have projects in Algeria, Botswana, Cabo Verde, Comoros, Egypt, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mayotte, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
“CCBA has a responsibility to help those who face water scarcity and to help protect local water resources where we operate, especially in places with the biggest challenges. We are proud to partner with The Coca-Cola Company on this project,” says Layla Jeevanantham, Chief Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Officer at CCBA.
“We are proud to partner with The Coca-Cola Company and fellow bottlers on this critical initiative to help tackle water challenges across Africa. By working together, we can leverage the expertise of our partners and the knowledge of local communities to help create sustainable solutions that enhance water access and safeguard vital water resources,” said Sonia Ventosa, Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability Manager at ECCBC.
“Coca-Cola HBC has been part of African communities for more than 70 years, and sustainability is an important part of how we operate. We're very happy to see this new water initiative come to life and to support the system's water stewardship efforts,” said Marcel Martin, Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer, Coca-Cola HBC.
Recognizing that partnerships are critical to support this work, the company and its bottlers are collaborating with governments, businesses, and civil society organizations to design and implement strategic interventions. In addition to supporting the company's water strategy, this effort also aims to contribute to advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation.
This water initiative will build upon The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF)'s Replenish Africa Initiative (RAIN), a groundbreaking collaboration with key partners and co-funders which helped improve access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene for 6 million people across African countries between 2009 and 2019. Through 120 projects, the initiative positively impacted homes, schools and healthcare clinics in more than 4,000 communities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca-Cola.
Contacts:
Amel Benchikh El Houcine
abenchikh@coca-cola.com
About The Coca-Cola Company:
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Tributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan
The South African Revenue Services (SARS) has expressed sadness on the passing of former Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan who was also affectionately known as “PG”.
The revenue service described Gordhan as a “true patriot, social activist and a steward leader.”
Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer, his family announced. He was 75 years old.
SARS, which joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in expressing sadness in mourning his passing, described Gordhan as a remarkable steward leader whose contributions to the country and the revenue will be remembered for generations to come.
The former Minister served as the Commissioner of SARS from 1999 – 2009 after which he was appointed as the Finance Minister.
“As the Commissioner of SARS from 1999 – 2009, it was PG who ushered in and evangelised the notion that SARS exists to serve a Higher Purpose of enabling government to build a capable democratic state that fosters sustainable economic growth and social development in the interest and wellbeing of all South Africans.
“It was he who set the organisation on a path that still directs and inspires us today and will continue for decades to come. PG was, without doubt, the one who conceptualised and laid the foundation for a Modern Tax and Customs Administration,” said the revenue service.
It added that Gordhan’s leadership and unwavering commitment to the public service has left an indelible mark on South Africa’s economic landscape.
It said that as a key figure in SARS, he championed policies and reforms that strengthened the institution, transforming it into a globally respected revenue service.
His tenure was marked by an unyielding dedication to integrity, good governance, and accountability, ensuring that SARS became the pillar of strength for the nation’s fiscal health.
Beyond his significant work at SARS, he served South Africa with distinction in various leadership roles, including as Minister of Finance, Minister of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs and Minister of Public Enterprises, where his courage and vision guided the country through challenging times, it noted.
A social activist
It added that the former Minister’s-- who held the portfolio of Public Enterprises prior to retiring---lifelong commitment to building a fair and just society for all will continue to inspire future generations of public servants and leaders.
“I will remember him as a committed social activist who dedicated his life to the struggle and the improvement of the material conditions of South Africans at a time when we were in the steely grips of state capture, it was PG who stood fearlessly for justice and equality. He spoke with courage of his deep conviction and did not count the tremendous cost to him and his family,” said the revenue service's Commissioner Edward Kieswetter.
SARS said the former Minister was a life-long revolutionary and a struggle hero, who confronted apartheid unwaveringly, in the public arena and in the underground terrain.
“His legacy will continue to guide SARS and South Africa in its pursuit of ethical governance and economic justice. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Vanitha and daughters Anisha and Priyesha, his extended family and friends who experienced his love and friendship, and to all those whose lives were touched by his visionary leadership and dedicated public service,” it said.
READ | President mourns the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan
-SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 10:09
He deserves to be remembered as a courageous person who served the country with great distinction
The Mandela Washington Fellowship, begun in 2014, is the flagship program of President Obama's Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) that empowers young leaders through academic coursework, leadership training, and networking. In 2016, the Fellowship provided nearly 1,000 outstanding young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa with the opportunity to hone their skills at a U.S. higher education institution with support for professional development after they return home.
Ideal candidates are self-identified leaders, aged 25 to 35, with proven accomplishment in promoting innovation and positive change in their organizations, institutions, communities, and countries.
U.S.-based Activities
Academic and Leadership Institutes: Each Mandela Washington Fellow takes part in a six- week academic and leadership institute at a U.S. university or college in one of three tracks: business and entrepreneurship, civic leadership, or public management.
Summit: Following the academic component of the Fellowship, the Fellows visit Washington, D.C. for a summit. During the three-day event, Fellows take part in networking and panel discussions with U.S. leaders from the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Professional Development Experience: Selected Fellows remain in the U.S. to participate in a six-week professional development experience with U.S. non-governmental organizations, private companies, and governmental agencies related to their professional interests and goals.
Africa-based Activities
Upon returning to their home countries, Fellows continue to build the skills they have developed during their time in the United States through support from U.S. embassies, Regional Leadership Centers, the YALI Network, and customized programming from affiliated partners. Mandela Washington Fellows have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, mentoring, networking and training, and seed funding to support their ideas, businesses, and organizations.
Application Information
The application includes basic information and questions about the applicant's professional and academic experience, including educational background; honors and awards received; extracurricular and volunteer activities; and English language proficiency. A résumé is also requested (with dated educational and professional background), and personal information (name, address, phone, email, country of citizenship). Additional elements, such as letters of recommendation or university transcripts, are OPTIONAL and may supplement your application.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, socio-economic status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The Mandela Washington Fellowship is open to young African leaders who meet the following criteria:
Please note that Fellows are not allowed to have dependents, including spouses and children, accompany them during the Fellowship. The U.S. Department of State and IREX reserve the right to verify all information included in the application. In the event of a discrepancy, or if information is found to be false, the application will immediately be declared invalid and the applicant ineligible.
Selection Process
The Mandela Washington Fellowship selection process is a merit-based open competition. After the deadline, all eligible applications will be reviewed by independent readers. Following this review, chosen semi-finalists will be interviewed by the U.S. embassies or consulates in their home countries. Selected semi-finalists will be required to participate in these in-person interviews in their home country within Africa. If advanced to the semi-finalist round, applicants must provide a copy of their international passport (if available) or other government-issued photo identification at the time of the interview. Selected Finalists are required to attend the mandatory Pre-Departure Orientation in their home country within Africa. The following criteria will be used to evaluate applications (not in order of importance):
Learn More
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Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy in Namibia.
Official funeral for former Minister Pravin Gordhan
President Cyril Ramaphosa has granted lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan an official funeral.
Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer. He was 75 years old.
The late former Minister will be laid to rest in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday.
Speaking during the signing ceremony of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill in Pretoria on Friday, President Ramaphosa said Gordhan was one of the most principled and courageous freedom fighters the country has produced.
“South Africans woke up to the sad news of the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan. I had the occasion to go and spend some time with him last night in hospital as I returned from Cape Town before he passed on.
“I was able to get a moment to speak to him even though he could no longer hear me. But it was a sad moment for me to be able to watch him as he was passing on to his journey to another world,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the Minister’s wife, Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, as well as his family members across the world.
“Gordhan dedicated his life to the struggle and freedom of our people, he fought to liberate this country from the shackles of apartheid. From inequality, poverty and hunger, he is one person who was driven by a vision of a society in which all people have achieved their full potential and which all may realise their dreams.
“I have decided that we will have an official funeral to say our goodbyes to him as a nation,” the President.
READ | Tributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan
Gordhan served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017. He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 until 2015. He also served as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until announcement of his planned retirement in March.
Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after serving as the Deputy Commissioner of the revenue service.
His contribution to the public sector arose from his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle, including his role in the student and civic movements in the 1970s and ‘80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress and military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress.
During South Africa’s transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue and was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
The year 2023 marked 50 years since Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree which led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 15:08
Fitch affirms SA’s long-term foreign and local currency debt ratings at ‘BB-’
Government has noted Fitch’s decision to affirm South Africa’s long-term foreign and local currency debt ratings at ‘BB-’ and maintain the stable outlook.
According to the ratings agency, South Africa’s credit rating is constrained by several factors, including low real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, high poverty and inequality levels, a high government debt-to-GDP ratio, and a rigid fiscal structure that hampers deficit reduction.
However, the ratings are supported by a favourable debt structure with long maturities and mostly local-currency-denominated, strong institutions and a credible monetary policy framework.
The National Treasury said Fitch noted advancements in the implementation of the 35 priority reforms under Operation Vulindlela, initiated in 2020, aimed at modernising network industries such as electricity, water, and transport.
“The agency views the Government of National Unity (GNU), where the ANC remains the largest party, as a factor that reduces short-term policy uncertainty and facilitates the continuation of the implementation of the reform programme, which will contribute to a modest increase in real GDP growth.
“Fitch also acknowledges significant improvements in the electricity generation, with no supply interruptions since March 2024 and the potential for further increase in the short term,” said Treasury in a statement on Friday.
It said government’s strategy for fiscal consolidation over the medium term involves exercising expenditure restraint and implementing moderate revenue increases, while continuing to support the social wage and ensuring additional funding for critical services.
“Furthermore, government has decided to further mitigate fiscal risks by reducing borrowing over the medium term through leveraging a portion of valuation gains in the Gold and Foreign Exchange Contingency Reserve Account (GFECRA). Extensive reforms in energy, freight, water, and telecommunications are also in progress,” said the department. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 13:32
The Presiding Officers of Parliament, National Assembly Speaker, Ms Thoko Didiza, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, express their profound sadness and deepest condolences on the passing of former Minister Mr Pravin Gordhan at the age of 75.
Mr Gordhan was a lifelong activist and dedicated public servant who fought against apartheid and contributed to South Africa's transition to democracy. He was among the first generation of parliamentarians following the 1994 democratic breakthrough that contributed immensely to shaping the course of our democracy through, amongst others, setting up democratic institutions, systems and laying a firm foundation for legislative reform.
His service in the cabinet and public service, including his stewardship of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and his roles as Minister of Finance, Cooperative Governance, and later Public Enterprises, demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the betterment of public institutions through ethical governance, transparency and economic reform. During his tenure at SARS, Mr Gordhan served with diligence and integrity and, together with his capable team, transformed the institution into a world-class tax and customs administration.
The Presiding Officers said: "We convey our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and comrades in the African National Congress on this sad loss.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Uphold the principles of equality in honour of Ronnie Mamoepa
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on citizens to recommit themselves to the values of compassion, justice, and unity in honour of the late Ronnie Mamoepa.
“Together, let us construct a future that affords everyone the chance to prosper, ensures no one falls behind, and upholds the principles of equality and dignity for all.
“As President Oliver Tambo instructed, our task even in the conditions we find ourselves in today, remains that of bringing about the kind of society we visualised in the Freedom Charter,” he said on Friday.
Deputy President Mashatile was delivering a keynote address at the Ronnie Mamoepa Inaugural Annual Lecture at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Pretoria campus.
The late Mamoepa was an esteemed struggle hero, a defender of freedom and democracy, a respected figure in government communication and a dedicated public servant.
He passed away in July 2017 after a long illness at the age of 56.
His last position was as the spokesperson for the Deputy President at that time, Cyril Ramaphosa.
Hosted by the Ronnie Mamoepa Foundation, the inaugural annual lecture honoured the struggle hero, whose work in government communication helped shape the democratic narrative in South Africa.
The Deputy President’s address centred around the 30 Years of Democracy and citizen-centered government communication.
“I am of the view that Ronnie was an optimist, determined to realise the goal of a national democratic society that is non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, united, and prosperous.”
He described him as a revolutionary intellectual due to his critical thinking. “Mamoepa was an intellectual who, like other revolutionary thinkers, recognised the necessity of investing in research, reading, and critical theory and discipline.”
The Deputy President remembered that following his release from Robben Island, Mamoepa returned to his residence in Atteridgeville, Pretoria, and resumed his political activities.
“I must acknowledge that Ronnie Mamoepa, whose work ethic, and dedication to service remains unparalleled, also influenced some of the former student leaders of SASCO [South African Students Congress] who are currently members of my team in the Presidency.”
Together with Mamoepa, he said, they fought against the oppressor and equally stood against any form of discrimination.
“Our resolve to resist colonialism and apartheid stemmed from our belief in the vision of a South Africa in which the people govern, the country’s wealth is restored to the people, and the land is shared among those who work it. Our vision was to establish a society free from human exploitation.”
Government of National Unity
The Deputy President said he believed the late government communicator would have backed the Government of National Unity (GNU).
He told the attendees that GNU parties have made a firm commitment to respect the Constitution and the rule of law, as well as to promote accountability, transparency, integrity, and good governance.
“The GNU has resolved to dedicate the next five years to actions that will advance three strategic priorities – to drive inclusive growth and job creation, to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living, and to build a capable, ethical, and developmental State.”
The Deputy President assured citizens that the GNU is working around the clock to build a better South Africa for everyone.
“This means that we must work together to address all the challenges we face. We are at a time where we need to theorise and understand the context of the world we live in.”
The country’s second-in-command said as the seventh administration, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the goal is to create a society where every voice is acknowledged, and every citizen is empowered.
“We are confident that the movement of Ronnie Mamoepa will reemerge! Long Live the Spirit of Ronnie Mamoepa long live,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 14:13
President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing of lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises Mr Pravin Gordhan, who has passed away at the age of 75, following a period of illness.
President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to Mr Gordhan's spouse, Ms Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, as well as the former Minister's older brother, Manecklal Gordhan, and sister Shanta Harilal.
The President's thoughts are with former Minister Gordhan's extended family, comrades, associates and organisations with whom he established relationships as a family and community member, freedom fighter, public sector executive and Member of the National Executive.
He served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017.
He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 until 2015, and as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until his March 2024 announcement of planned retirement.
Mr Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after a period as Deputy Commissioner.
His contribution to the public sector arose from his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle, including his role in student and civic movements in the 1970s and ‘80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress and military military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress.
During South Africa's transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Mr Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue and was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
2023 marked 50 years since Mr Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree which led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders.
President Ramaphosa said: “We have lost an outstanding leader whose unassuming persona belied the depth of intellect, integrity and energy with which he undertook his activism, his duty as a parliamentarian and his roles as a member of Cabinet.
“Pravin Gordhan's personal sacrifices and his endeavours and achievements in various sectors of our society endowed him with the insights, empathy and resilience that fuelled his service to the nation.
“In the latter years of this service to the nation, and as a beacon of our fight against corruption, Pravin Gordhan stood up to derision and threats emanating from some in our nation who were scorched by his insistence that justice be dispensed against those who sought to undermine our democracy and raid our public resources and assets.
“During his decades of revolutionary dedication to making South Africa a better place, Pravin Gordhan and his family were deprived of much needed and deserved time together.
“As we mourn his passing, we remain grateful for his life of sacrifice and service and his sustained striving for the realisation of the vision and dictates of our Constitution.
“We carry his family in our thoughts and prayers at this time.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.