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South Africa
Arts Minister pays tribute to Connie Chiume
Arts Minister pays tribute to Connie Chiume
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has extended his condolences to the family, friends and fans of legendary actress Connie Chiume.
“Her passing at age 72 marks a profound loss for the South African nation and the world of arts and culture. Chiume’s matchless talents and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many,” said the department on Tuesday.
Born in Welkom, South Africa, Chiume’s journey was one of resilience and brilliance. Her early years were spent in Welkom before she completed her matric in the Eastern Cape and graduated with a degree in teaching in 1976.
After a few years of teaching, she pursued her passion for travel and moved to Greece. Chiume began her illustrious acting career with roles in Porgy and Bess, Ipi Ntombi and Little Shop of Horrors.
Upon returning to South Africa, she captivated audiences with her performance as Thembi in the 1989 series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa and the 1990 film Warriors from Hell.
Her talent was recognised with a Best Actress award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in 2000.
From 2007 to 2015, Connie gained prominence through her role as Stella Moloi in the SABC1 drama series Zone 14, earning her another SAFTA. She also received the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama award at the third SAFTAs.
In 2015, she charmed viewers in the soap opera Rhythm City as Mamokete Khuse.
Chiume's talent transcended borders when she played the Mining Tribe Elder in Black Panther in 2018.
In 2020, she continued to shine in the drama series Gomora and appeared in the film Black Is King.
She was also a recipient of the Living Legend award at the department’s inaugural Cultural and Creative Industry Awards (CCIAs) that took place on the 30th of March 2024.
Upon learning of the news of Chiume’s passing, McKenzie said: “Her performances brought joy, inspiration, and a sense of pride to countless South Africans. She was more than an actress; she was a beacon of strength, resilience and grace. Mam’ Connie’s contribution to the arts not only entertained. She inspired, educated and uplifted communities throughout our country.
“As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her life and legacy. May her memory continue to inspire future generations of artists. My thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the outpouring of love and support from all those who cherished her.” – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 20:55
565 views
Arts Minister pays tribute to Connie Chuime
Arts Minister pays tribute to Connie Chuime
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has extends his condolences to the family, friends and fans of legendary actress Connie Chiume.
“Her passing at age 72 marks a profound loss for the South African nation and the world of arts and culture. Connie’s matchless talents and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many,” said the department on Tuesday.
Born in Welkom, South Africa, Chiume’s journey was one of resilience and brilliance. Her early years were spent in Welkom before she completed her matric in the Eastern Cape and graduated with a degree in teaching in 1976.
After a few years of teaching, she pursued her passion for travel and moved to Greece. Chuime began her illustrious acting career with roles in Porgy and Bess, Ipi Ntombi and Little Shop of Horrors.
Upon returning to South Africa, she captivated audiences with her performance as Thembi in the 1989 series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa and the 1990 film Warriors from Hell.
Her talent was recognised with a Best Actress award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in 2000.
From 2007 to 2015, Connie gained prominence through her role as Stella Moloi in the SABC1 drama series Zone 14, earning her another SAFTA. She also received the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama award at the third SAFTAs.
In 2015, she charmed viewers in the soap opera Rhythm City as Mamokete Khuse.
Chuime's talent transcended borders when she played the Mining Tribe Elder in Black Panther in 2018.
In 2020, she continued to shine in the drama series Gomora and appeared in the film Black Is King.
She was also a recipient of the Living Legend award at the department’s inaugural Cultural and Creative Industry Awards (CCIAs) that took place on the 30th of March 2024.
Upon learning of the news of Chuime’s passing, McKenzie said: “Her performances brought joy, inspiration, and a sense of pride to countless South Africans. She was more than an actress; she was a beacon of strength, resilience and grace. Mam’ Connie’s contribution to the arts not only entertained. She inspired, educated and uplifted communities throughout our country.
“As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her life and legacy. May her memory continue to inspire future generations of artists. My thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the outpouring of love and support from all those who cherished her.” – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 20:55
191 views
QwaQwa 12-year-old wins international dance championship
Thato Mkwanazi from Phuthaditjhaba nabs the World Dance Masters line dance title in England
Strategic Partnership Helps Tackle Early Childhood Development Crisis in South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa – Internationally acclaimed non-profit organisation, The Unlimited Child are proud to announce their newly established partnership with National Treasury’s Jobs Fund. The two have joined forces to address the challenges in Early Childhood Development (ECD), focusing on marginalised rural and peri-urban communities while creating sustainable jobs. Recognising the importance of investing in …
Send Love with the Best Florists and Flower Delivery in Cape Town
Cape Town, a city renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is also home to a thriving floristry scene. Whether you’re looking to send a bouquet to a loved one or brighten your own space, florist Cape Town offers a plethora of options. Why Choose a Florist in Cape Town? Cape Town’s florists …
Providing freshness to the community of oThongathi
Providing freshness to the community of oThongathi
by Keneilwe Velaphi
Sabelo Mkhwanazi’s business, Mayanda Fresh supermarket, is centred on providing fresh produce to the community of oThongathi, KwaZulu-Natal.
Mkhwanazi said prior to launching the establishment, he realised that his community was complaining about purchasing expired and rotten goods from nearby shops, which prompted him to start the business model.
Mayanda Fresh was officially opened in June 2023.
“I entered the supermarket industry because I was driven by passion and the need to supply fresh high-quality produce to my community,” said Mkhwanazi.
The goal of Mayanda Fresh was to create a welcoming and convenient shopping experience to customers, while also supporting local farmers and suppliers.
“There is a need to offer a wide variety of fresh products at affordable prices. Another goal is to strive towards becoming a trusted name in the retail industry in South Africa.”
Mkhwanazi ensures stock availability through the use of advanced technology and strong supplier relationships.
“I have established a trustworthy relationship with my suppliers, allowing me flexible payment terms. This mutual trust ensures timely deliveries and consistent stock availability.”
This approach allows Mayanda Fresh to always supply customers with fresh produce.
Furthermore, Mkhwanazi’s state-of-the-art inventory management system accurately tracks all stock levels, providing real-time updates as he purchases and sells products.
He added that he has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers, stakeholders, and the community.
His supermarket also serves the residents of surrounding areas, as well as those who work in oThongathi.
“In order to attract and retain customers, I have strategically chosen to position my first store at the centre of the oThongathi central business district. This is a commercial area that is conveniently near residential neighbourhoods, and the location makes it easy for customers to access daily essentials.
He also leverages media relations to reach a wider audience, ensuring that more people are aware of what Mayanda Fresh has to offer.
The self-made entrepreneur said he did not receive funding from government but with the support of his family and community, he was able to establish his business.
“My business came across many challenges one of the biggest being managing the supply chain to ensure a consistent and timely delivery of fresh produce, and building, and maintaining strong relationships.”
Mkhwanazi has big growth plans.
"I plan to develop an e-commerce website to create an online business, allowing customers to shop from their homes and have their products delivered to their door,” he concluded.
Visit the Mayanda Fresh Instagram page @mayanda_fresh or follow them on Tik Tok @Mayanda Fresh.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 11:48
307 views
Little Eden Society Chief Executive Officer To Step Down
The LITTLE EDEN Society Board has announced the resignation of its Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Xelda Rohrbeck due to medical and health-related reasons. The announcement came shortly after the Society held its 56th Annual General Meeting in July 2024. “The decision to resign was immensely difficult and emotional to make as the mission of LITTLE …
The RMB Where to Invest in Africa 2024 report highlights Africa’s top investment economies
RMB (www.RMB.com) has released the highly anticipated 2024 edition of its Where to Invest in Africa report, a comprehensive analysis of the top investment destinations on the continent. The report, which has been developed in collaboration with the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), leverages a robust methodology that has been updated to reflect new data sources, taking into account a variety of factors that have been proven to determine a country's progress and therefore its investment potential.
“Africa is not a country, but a vast, diverse and complex continent with different cultures, economies and investment potential. Our report therefore is not a definitive guide, but rather it is designed to provide insight to uncover the underlying drivers of a country's performance that inform its ranking. This offers invaluable insights for investors, policymakers, and business leaders looking to navigate Africa's dynamic economic landscape,” says Isaah Mhlanga, Chief Economist at RMB.
Expanded data, extended granularity
Investment decisions need to be viewed through both an economic performance lens and an operating environment lens. As a result, the methodology used for this edition of the Where to Invest in Africa report builds and expands on previous editions, taking into account new data sets as well as changing geopolitical and macroeconomic climates.
The scorecard for the 2024 issue highlights 31 countries that collectively represent 92% of the continent's economic activity (measured by GDP), and more than one billion people (three quarters of the continent's population). It draws on publicly available data sets from global institutions, including the World Bank, the IMF, the African Development Bank, the United Nations, and the International Labour Organisation.
The model is constructed from 20 metrics across four measurement pillars: economic performance and potential; market accessibility and innovation; economic stability and investment climate; and social and human development. Each metric is weighted, which translates into a weight for each pillar, and based on these metrics a standardised scorecard is produced, with rankings that enable effective comparison across Africa's complex and heterogeneous environment.
Africa's top five investment destinations
Combining these elements results in a ranking across the 31 countries measured. The results of the report show that the two small island economies of Seychelles and Mauritius rank first and second as the most attractive investment destinations on the continent, while the significantly larger economies of Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco rank in third, fourth and fifth places respectively.
Seychelles leads the rankings thanks to high levels of personal freedom, human development, and a stable economic environment. Seychelles offers a unique and attractive investment climate. Despite scoring lower on economic size and potential, Mauritius is known for innovation, economic freedom, and high GDP per capita. It continues to be a top destination for investors seeking stability and growth opportunities in a well-regulated environment.
Egypt represents Africa's largest economy by GDP (2023), offering a substantial market with diverse opportunities in sectors like technology, manufacturing, and services. Its strategic location and economic complexity further enhance its attractiveness. Despite facing significant challenges, South Africa remains a crucial hub for investment in Africa. Its robust financial sector, diverse economy, and potential for infrastructure development make it a key player. Finally, Morocco's strong performance in connectedness, innovation, and economic stability positions it as a top investment destination. Its strategic proximity to European markets adds to its appeal.
Distilling diversity – investment archetypes explained
Africa is an incredibly diverse continent, and no two markets are the same, which means there is no such thing as a universal success story. However, when we zoom out and view nations through the lenses of size and the relevant investability score, it becomes apparent that they fall into distinct groupings with shared traits. The 2024 edition of Where to Invest in Africa suggests five potential investment archetypes based on shared characteristics revealed through the four measurement pillars.
‘Highflyers' represent the large, well-established economies that offer stability and a range of investment opportunities, such as Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia. Those ‘Cleared for Take-off' are countries with high economic growth and innovation potential thanks to factors like a young population and abundant resources, including Senegal and Côte d'Ivoire. ‘People Potential' are markets with a young and growing demographic, creating a sizeable consumer base and a future workforce, such as Kenya, DRC and Uganda. ‘Global Connectors' are more advanced economies with a strong international presence, such as Morocco, Mauritius, Tunisia and Seychelles. ‘Low-Base Boomers' are smaller markets with high potential for explosive growth but a corresponding higher degree of risk, including Rwanda, Mozambique, and Benin.
Additional insights unpacked
The report also highlights a number of trends across the various markets, and the role of innovation and economic complexity in driving growth is a central theme. Countries such as South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana are noted for their strides in technological innovation and diversification of their economic bases, making them attractive destinations for investment.
The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) holds significant potential for boosting intra-African trade, enhancing economic integration, and creating a more competitive continental market. Effective implementation of the AfCFTA is expected to drive economic growth and development across the continent. Africa's young and rapidly growing population also presents a unique opportunity for economic growth, with countries like Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Uganda poised to benefit from this demographic dividend, provided they can create sufficient employment opportunities and foster a conducive environment for economic participation.
In addition, there are a number of emerging markets with significant growth potential, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya. Despite facing challenges such as political instability and infrastructural deficits, these countries offer substantial opportunities due to their large and youthful populations, improving business climates, and diversification efforts. Africa's vast natural resources, including minerals and arable land, are pivotal for sustainable economic growth. However, the report cautions against the "resource curse" and underscores the importance of good governance and strategic management. Angola, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are highlighted for their rich resources and potential for sustainable development.
One area that requires critical attention across the continent is the need for infrastructure investment. Improved transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure are essential for unlocking Africa's economic potential, and South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria are identified as key markets where infrastructure development could yield significant returns.
Beyond the rankings – a deeper look at African investment
Looking beyond metrics and scorecards, Africa holds massive potential but equally faces numerous challenges. The continent is rich in natural resources, which can be a major driver of economic growth, but they also present challenges in the form of corruption and environmental degradation. Increased activity around trade agreements can open new markets for foreign investors and boost economic activity, but lack of adequate infrastructure is a major hurdle for many African economies. Investment in this space will improve connectivity and create new opportunities, while rapid and increasing urbanisation will prove attractive to investors in consumer goods, retail, and financial services. Finally, countries in Africa are embracing new technologies, leapfrogging traditional development stages and creating new investment opportunities in the tech sector.
“The richness of Africa's diversity makes fully analysing its nuance and contrast a challenging task, but an important one when it comes to understanding the varied markets that make up this vast regional economy. The 2024 RMB Where to Invest in Africa report aims to develop a balanced, robust and actionable view of the drivers, challenges and opportunities that characterise each of the 31 African markets included in the analysis,” Mhlanga concludes.
Download the full report here to uncover the insights and drive more informed investment decisions.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rand Merchant Bank.
Mhlongo raring to shine at the Paris 2024 Paralympics
Mhlongo raring to shine at the Paris 2024 Paralympics
by Sihle Manda
When South African athletes enter the Place de la Concorde in Paris on 28 August for the Paris 2024 Paralympics, the country’s hopes will be hoisted high by flag-bearers, sprinter Mpumelelo Mhlongo and swimmer Katherine Swanepoel.
The two will be among the country’s medal hopefuls as South Africa tries to improve on the seven medals won at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.
Four years ago, Mhlongo broke the T44 200m world record and set the T44 200m, 100m, and long jump Paralympic Games records.
Reacting to the honour of flag-bearer, he said: “My immediate reaction was the thought that I was being held as the butt of a joke. When I finally faced the reality of the honour, I was flabbergasted.”
He thought there were many deserving individuals to carry the country's flag, adding that he had been extremely grateful as it was something he had experienced at last year's Paris World Para Athletic Championships.
“To do it at the Paris 2024 Paralympics is madness,” he said.
He conceded that the honour had little bearing for him as a professional. “It is an honour that successfully challenges the [human] skeptic in me, that does not dare to dream of a future beyond its circumstances.”
On his personal ambitions, he said representing the country was an overwhelming feeling that needed to be experienced.
“Pride and gratitude are words that do not give the meaning, or the justice it deserves. I think no matter how many words you string together, even the imagination has its limitations which is where experience steps in,” he added.
The sprinter said he was excited for Games that are not held under pandemic lockdown conditions.
“I am looking forward to the Olympic and Paralympic athletes reminding its community how important they are and the joy we get in experiencing these global events with them,” he said.
The Chatsworth-born athlete said while he had set himself targets for Paris 2024, his biggest target was to get to the games in a healthy condition.
Chatsworth is in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
“We even have targets for the sort of sleep and recovery we want to see daily. The most important target though, is getting to the Games healthy because we have done everything we can in our preparations to be the best versions of ourselves when it matters.
“Once you are at the Games, you have to intentionally remember to go out there and have fun, just celebrate the opportunity to represent our country and everyone who has reminded us that our story has value just as others,” he concluded.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 12:26
125 views
Apply for funding for community heritage project
Apply for funding for community heritage project
by More Matshediso
The National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) is inviting heritage practitioners, activists and enthusiasts to apply for Heritage Funding until 30 August 2024.
The NHC is an entity of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture that is responsible for the preservation, protection and promotion of the country’s heritage.
According to the NHC Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr Thabo Manetsi, the entity also has a responsibility to disburse funds to approved heritage projects that commit to work together with the NHC to achieve its overall mandate.
“Preserving the tapestry of our diverse heritage is also key for nation building and social cohesion,” he said.
To be considered for funding, you need to have a community project in the heritage sector that seeks to preserve and promote South Africa’s heritage through documentation, research and publication.
This include educational institutions that participate in heritage projects, non-profit companies, non-governmental organisations, community-based organisations, associations, foundations (excluding family foundations), community trusts (excluding family trusts), and not for gain Section 21 companies.
The NHC said interested individuals must be willing to partner with credible and qualifying institutions for implementation and financial reporting of their project.
The entity said priority will be given to proposals or applications that focus in heritage research and publication or documenting of education and training in heritage, as well as indigenous knowledge systems.
The proposals or applications that focus on these projects would be categorised under these priority areas; women and heritage, youth and heritage, education and heritage, heritage research and publication or documenting, including indigenous groups' heritage initiatives.
Additionally, the NHC funding also gives priority to proposals focusing on the following key heritage disciplines:
• Living Heritage
• Cultural History and Heritage
• Education and Training
The NHC said organisations or individuals with heritage projects that are still active under the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP) or NHC funding will not qualify for funding until closing reports or committed end products are submitted.
“Don’t leave it for later, start working on your application process and gather the required compliance documents as soon as possible. Our teams are always available to provide the support required by applicants,” urged Manetsi.
For more information visit www.nhc.org.za, email funding@nhc.org.za or call 012 748 3949.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Tue, 08/06/2024 - 11:56
79 views
Under One Roof rolls out its residential property listing service in South Africa
Under One Roof (www.UnderOneRoof.co.za), is an entirely new concept set to solve some of the most frustrating problems encountered with other property listing websites. It introduces a homeownership resource-concentrated hub that not only presents properties for rent or sale - which uniquely also assists its clients to complete a transfer to a new owner - but also incorporates offerings that empower homeowners to make well-informed decisions about their lifestyle.
Simultaneously, Under One Roof heralds the entry of a new female real estate CEO, Lynne Krawchuk, who is set to change the traditionally heavily-male dominated property executive clique. Her decades of experience as a marketing professional give Under One Roof the edge when it comes to converting website visitors to loyal clients, putting their needs and wants ahead of merely presenting a search engine of listings.
“We are going to completely change the way properties are showcased,” says Krawchuk. “We will reveal the power of delivering an innovative property ecosystem that will optimise anyone's property journey, be that the property practitioner or agency, the buyer, seller, or renter.”
Under One Roof is something not yet seen before on existing South African property platforms, where listings and advice remain unsupported by other digital marketing strategies, and which are not catering to the different demographic markets.
“This is likely due to complacency by the dominant few property-listing players who have amassed a following due to their monopoly. As such they have created an uneven playing field that restricts the marketing efforts of, particularly, the small-, micro-, and medium-sized property players who are further compromised by the prevailing challenge of diminishing property prices and weakened purchasing power of consumers,” says Krawchuk.
The key differentiator with Under One Roof is its functionality and pricing plan. Krawchuk explains that all users, be those buyers, sellers, renters, landlords, developers, or property practitioners, are provided with a unique login aligned to their own customised backend dashboard.
“Here they can access in-depth data relevant to individual listed properties, be that municipal charges or alternative power and water solutions. Buyers and renters will be able to download walk-through video's and monitor listings they are interested in for an easy revisit or comparison.”
Estate agents and private listers will be able to monitor the number of visitors to their listings, update, and edit details, and can avail of either a three- or six-month subscription per listing with a unique twist. “If the property is sold before the subscription expires, the outstanding months of the package can be transferred to another property listing, provided the first property sale is proven. We can even upload listings if that is preferred, at no charge,” explains Krawchuk.
For buyers, especially those who either do not fully comprehend the property purchase journey or are frustrated by the number of steps in the process, Under One Roof offers to source bond origination, bridging finance, rate clearance certificates and assistance with the transfer. “This feature alone responds to an undeniably underserved market, more specifically first-time home buyers and millennials who prefer to engage a full-range service.”
The Under One Roof customer-centric approach is also going to present as a novelty, for while technology may be driving the platform, AI chatbots are not a feature. “Our research indicates that customers prefer having a human respond to online or email queries. We acknowledge that while today's customers are considered as ‘smart consumers' who may be familiar with the digital realm, chatbots have no empathy, are unable to solve critical problems, and tend to aggravate users who may have a unique request.”
As Under One Roof grows, so too will the breadth of the platform. “Beyond the necessary features, we are concentrating on targeted demographics, where demands differ in terms of cultural and locality preferences,” says Krawchuk. “For example, in the future we will be presenting neighbourhood video visits hosted by a typical resident, and guidance manuals and features that highlight lifestyle choices. Commercial and retail properties will also be introduced.
“We believe that Under One Roof is the most intelligent, powerful, transparent, and streamlined real estate game-changer since property listings went online in the late 90s,” emphasises Krawchuk. “The team at Under One Roof is intentional about manifesting change in the market by filling the gaps that have been prevalent for too long. And, while others may think we are a disruptor, we disagree! We prefer to think of ourselves as renegades by challenging the existing, staid, and unadventurous status quo.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Under One Roof.
About Under One Roof:
Under One Roof (www.UnderOneRoof.co.za) is reinventing the property listing experience by delivering a one-to-one personalisation online platform for agents, buyers, sellers, and renters. It has developed a unique South African approach to all thing's property-focused, including lifestyle, with its presentation of a combination of digital and human interactions. Under One Roof is a compelling property hub that speaks to, and inspires, a new generation of property stakeholders.
Headquarters: Pretoria, South Africa
For more information, please visit our website: www.UnderOneRoof.co.za
Mental Illness awareness Month: Understanding the Distinctions and Trends in Mental Health and Mental Illness By Dr Litha Fatsha Advanced Specialist Healthcare Facilities Strategy Unit
Mental health and mental illness are often used interchangeably, yet they are distinct concepts. Mental health refers to our overall psychological well-being, encompassing our emotions, thoughts, and feelings, and it affects how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. In contrast, mental illness involves diagnosable conditions that impact a person’s thinking, emotional state, …
SA Deaf Rugby hosts its first international tournament
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Two more Mpox cases recorded in Gauteng and KZN
Two more Mpox cases recorded in Gauteng and KZN
The Department of Health has called for ongoing public vigilance against Mpox disease as two more laboratory-confirmed infections have been detected in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the department, the recent cases come 26 days after the last cases of Mpox were reported in South Africa.
This means that the total number of cases stand at 24, of which 12 were reported in Gauteng, 11 in KwaZulu-Natal and one in the Western Cape.
Meanwhile, the number of deaths linked to the disease remains three.
According to data, the latest case is a 36-year-old man from KwaZulu-Natal who was admitted at a local public health facility in Durban late in July after he experienced an Mpox-like rash along with fatigue, muscle pain and rigour.
“The patient has no international travel history,” the department explained.
The Gauteng case involves a 20-year-old man seen at a private health facility in Johannesburg on Friday, 2 August.
“The case presented with typical Mpox lesions. He confirmed his international travel history to Peru in South America. It is uncertain if the exposure occurred in Peru or South Africa.”
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) multi-country Mpox outbreak, Peru is among the countries with a high number of positive cases in the Americas region.
The department said contact tracing and monitoring activities are ongoing in the affected communities in both provinces.
It urged all the identified contacts to cooperate with health officials during contact tracing for screening and possible diagnosis to prevent further transmission of this preventable and treatable disease.
Meanwhile, as per data, of the 22 cases recorded between 8 May and 6 July, 19 of them have fully recovered.
“All people with suspected symptoms are reminded to visit the nearest healthcare facility right away for clinical evaluation, diagnosis and treatment options, instead of self-diagnosing and isolation.”
In addition, the department confirmed the arrival of another batch of Tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX, donated by the WHO as part of ongoing support to the country’s response efforts to this preventable and manageable disease. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:00
435 views
Operation Shanela nets over 13 000 suspects
Operation Shanela nets over 13 000 suspects
Police have, through their high-density operations known as Operation Shanela, arrested 13 996 suspects throughout the country over the course of this past week.
Through detectives and crime intelligence tracing operations, roadblocks as well as stop and searches, police said they have taken a “bold and decisive approach” in protecting the communities that they serve.
The operations, which take place across the country, are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province.
The following arrests were made:
• 4 065 wanted suspects for crimes such as murder, rape, possession of illegal firearms and business robberies;
• 106 suspects for murder;
• 150 suspects for attempted murder;
• 182 suspects for rape, 80 of them were arrested in the province of KwaZulu-Natal;
• 134 suspects for being in the illegal possession of firearms, 66 of them were arrested in the Eastern Cape;
• 582 suspects for the illegal dealing in liquor, 262 of these arrests were effected in KwaZulu-Natal, and
• 240 drug dealers.
Police said assault grievous bodily harm continues to register a large number of arrests, with 1 372 suspects arrested.
A total of 158 firearms were confiscated during operations, 47 of these firearms were confiscated during police operations in KwaZulu-Natal.
“This is the second consecutive week in which police in KZN recover a high number of firearms. In the week from 21 July to 27 July 2024, the province seized 40 firearms,” SAPS said.
Also, 1 448 rounds of ammunition were confiscated and 74 hijacked and stolen vehicles were recovered during the week’s operations.
“Two kidnappers were arrested and 90 undocumented Ethiopian nationals were rescued from a suspected human trafficking ring in Johannesburg.
“The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Hawks, in the Eastern Cape shot and killed five cash-in-transit [heist] suspects, while three suspects were arrested during a tracing operation.
“R300 million worth of drugs suspected to be crystal meth were seized in Fourways, Johannesburg. In the same operation, a kidnapped businessman was rescued and eight kidnappers were arrested.
“Counterfeit goods worth R7 million were seized in Fordsburg and Dragon City in Johannesburg.
“KwaZulu-Natal police intercepted criminals involved in serious and violent crime across the province, including suspects wanted for murders, armed robberies and hijackings. During arrests, police were confronted by heavy gunfire. Two police officers were injured and hospitalised, while more than 10 suspects were fatally wounded.”
The SAPS said police would continue with their operations and stamp the authority of the State to ensure the safety and security of all people living in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 13:18
401 views
Minister acknowledges need for women to be equitably represented
Minister acknowledges need for women to be equitably represented
Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina has committed to ensure that women’s emancipation remains one of the department’s key focus areas, in line with government’s constitutional responsibility to protect, promote and advance the rights of women in all areas of the economy.
Briefing media on departmental plans and priorities for 2024/25 in Boksburg on Monday, Majodina said as the country celebrates 30 years of freedom and democracy this year, the month of August serves as an opportunity for the water sector to reflect on how women, in particular, are affected by a lack of access to clean water and safe sanitation.
“Women normally bear the brunt of the burden of fetching water from afar when they do not have access to clean running water. There is an ongoing need to ensure that women are equitably represented in the sector and have access to opportunities that are available in the sector,” Majodina said.
Community outreach programmes
Majodina said the department will be undertaking community outreach programmes to educate communities to understand that the provision of water services falls under the municipalities’ roles and responsibilities.
This follows numerous calls and messages received by the department, where the public, including local provincial leaders, share their challenges with water and sanitation service delivery at local level.
Among the challenges reported include lack of access to water, sewage pollution, and disruptions in water supply for various reasons.
According to the Minister, the callers do not seem to understand that the provision of water services is the responsibility of municipalities, not the national Department of Water and Sanitation.
“It will be a priority for us to correct this misunderstanding and to encourage communities and community leaders to hold their municipalities accountable for the delivery of water and sanitation services.
“When we receive calls related to the responsibilities of the national department or the water boards, we ensure that these issues are dealt with.
“The first point of call for residents to raise issues regarding municipal water and sanitation services must be their municipalities. However, when we receive calls related to water and sanitation services which are the responsibility of municipalities, we refer these to the relevant municipalities to resolve,” Majodina said.
Majodina reiterated that only the municipalities can resolve these issues, and “the national department cannot do maintenance or repairs to municipal infrastructure on behalf of a municipality”.
The call centre number where the department receives complaints and queries about all aspects of water and sanitation in the country is 0800 200 200.
Highlighting the department’s activities during its first 30 days, Majodina said the department has presented the Budget Vote Policy Statement for the 2024/2025 financial year to Parliament, followed by a series of appearances before various parliamentary committees.
READ I Majodina commits to improving water, sanitation services
“In addition, we have also met and had robust engagements with our seven water boards on their plans, the projects they are undertaking, and the challenges they face in their effort to provide potable bulk water services to their customers, who are municipalities and industries within their areas of service,” Majodina said.
Increase in water demand
While South Africa is one of the 30 most water-scarce countries in the world, Majodina said the consumption of water is 218 litres per capita per day, compared to the international average of 173 litres per capita per day.
“We have already captured 75% of the available surface water in dams, and the remaining opportunities for capturing surface water are expensive. At the same time, the demand for water in South Africa is increasing, as a result of population growth and economic growth.
“The average national access to at least an RDP level of water service has increased from approximately 60% in 1994 to approximately 90% currently. This is a major achievement,” Majodina said.
RDP or higher service levels are regarded as tapped (safe) water through a communal stand pipe within 200 metres from the dwelling, water in the yard or water in the dwelling. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 13:21
275 views
Public servants urged to enrol for gender awareness courses
Public servants urged to enrol for gender awareness courses
Public Service and Administration Minister, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, has invited public servants to enrol for gender awareness courses at the National School of Government (NSG) to advance women’s socio-economic rights while promoting their safety and security.
This, according to the department, is part of marking National Women’s Month which South Africa commemorates annually in August.
This year the country marks National Women’s Month under the theme: Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women’s Development.
READ | SA commemorates Women's Month
Buthelezi has urged public servants at national, provincial and local government to enrol for courses at the NSG as one of the institutions that plays critical role in promoting women’s development and well-being in the public sector and society in general.
The NSG offers a suite of courses promoting gender awareness and gendered policy making.
Some of the courses offered are:
- The Gender-Based Violence Course aims to improve capacity to identify and address the root causes of and eradicate gender-based violence in society and the workplace.
- The Mainstreaming Gender in the Public Service Course capacitates public servants to integrate gender considerations into daily planning and programme activities across all levels of the public sector.
- The Gender Responsive Planning and Budgeting Course builds the capacity of public servants to understand the importance of and acquire the necessary tools and skills for gender responsive planning and budgeting.
The Minister added that government needs to work harder to raise consciousness within the public sector and urged both men and women to enrol for the courses.
“We need to promote a positive attitude and awareness amongst those delivering services at the coalface.
“Staff in government facilities such as small business development centres, social security offices, police stations, courts, hospitals and municipal offices need to ensure that women are treated with respect and dignity.
“They need to understand that women’s rights are human rights, and that equality is a constitutional right for all. The NSG training equips public servants to gain consciousness that will enable them to deliver services in a more informed and gender-sensitive manner.”
Minister Buthelezi encouraged public servants to also take advantage of the courses to empower themselves with the knowledge and skills to fight the scourge through policy making, implementation and the day-to-day work of providing government services.
“Our country sadly faces the scourge of gender-based violence and women are at the receiving end. Many women have lost their lives while many face abuse, harassment and attacks. Survivors and their families need to find responsive and caring public servants in hospitals, police stations and welfare services.”
For enrolment, departments should contact the NSG on contactcentre@thensg.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 14:02
242 views
DWS priorities completion of bucket eradication projects
DWS priorities completion of bucket eradication projects
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) says it will prioritise the completion of the remaining delayed Bucket Eradication Programme projects in the Northern Cape and the Free State.
Briefing the media on the department’s plans and priorities for the 2024/25 financial year on Monday, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina said of the 33 projects which formed part of the programme in the Free State, 26 have been completed (eradicating approximately 32 000 buckets).
“Approximately 10 000 buckets remain to be eradicated in the seven incomplete projects. Of 30 projects which formed part of the programme in the Northern Cape, 29 are completed (eradicating approximately 12 000 buckets), and 596 buckets remain to be eradicated in the one incomplete project,” Majodina said.
However, the Minister acknowledged that the programme will not result in the eradication of the “undignified” and “repugnant” bucket system altogether from the South African landscape. This is because the programme only focuses on eradicating buckets in certain towns in certain provinces, where they were identified in 2012.
She said since then, and on an ongoing basis, other municipalities elsewhere have introduced buckets systems in formal and informal settlements.
“The eradication of buckets is therefore a moving target. In order to address this, Cabinet has recently approved a National Sanitation Framework which will provide the basis for the department to issue new national minimum norms and standards for sanitation which will prohibit the use of the bucket system in both formal and informal settlements,” Majodina said.
Working together with the Water Research Commission, the department is developing new safe, dignified, on-site and non-sewered sanitation systems.
“These solutions will use much less water than water-borne sewered sanitation systems, which is necessary in a water scarce country such as South Africa. Such systems will need to be implemented by municipalities.”
Strengthening partnerships
The Minister added that the Ministry of Water and Sanitation will continue to collaborate with all sectors, especially the private sector, to contribute to resolving the country’s water and sanitation challenges.
This is in line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call to strengthen collaboration and social compacts with the private sector, labour, civil society and government.
In addition to partnerships with mining houses for water supply projects, the department is also facilitating partnerships between the private sector and municipalities, through its Water Partnerships Office, which was established in collaboration with the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) and the South African Local Government Association (SALGA).
This includes finalising plans with the eThekwini, Mangaung, Buffalo City, Nelson Mandela Bay, and Tshwane municipalities to mobilise private sector finance for the replacement of leaking municipal water distribution pipes which are resulting in high levels of non-revenue water.
Water Services Amendment Bill
Meanwhile, the department will shortly be presenting the Water Services Amendment Bill to Cabinet for approval for it to be submitted to Parliament.
Majodina noted that despite the high level of support provided by the department to the municipalities, the municipal water and sanitation services continue to decline.
She said the Amendment Bill provides for the introduction of an operating license system for Water Services Providers, to enable Water Services Authorities to ensure that their providers have a minimum level of capability to provide water and sanitation services that meet national norms and standards.
“The amendments propose that this should be done through the introduction of an operating license requirement for Water Services Providers, to ensure that they have a minimum level of competency.
“The Bill also introduces measures to enable the national department to take regulatory action against municipalities which do not comply with national minimum norms and standards for water services,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 14:23
90 views
Siyavela Impact Launches Online to Connect and Support Changemakers Globally
Johannesburg – 5 August 2024 – Siyavela Impact, a newly-founded nonprofit company aiming to connect and support changemakers from across the sectors of Corporate Social Investment (CSI), nonprofits (NPO/NPC) and grassroots development projects, will host its global online launch on Thursday, 8 August. Siyavela Impact’s online launch will introduce the inspiration, ethos and value of …
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Christine Njoki, SA all-comers record holder, targets another Totalsports Women’s Race victory
After dominating the field in Durban on Sunday, 4 August 2024, during her Totalsports Women’s Race debut, Kenya’s Christine Njoki, the current SA all-comers record holder, has set her sights on a second Totalsports Women’s Race victory, this time in Cape Town on Friday, 9 August 2024 (National Women’s Day). “I had a good race …
Government activities for the week 05 – 09 August 2025
Government activities for the week 05 – 09 August 2025
On Monday, 05 August, Ministry of Water and Sanitation to brief media on departmental plans and priorities for 2024/25 at the Birchwood Hotel, Boksburg.
On Tuesday, 06 August, Minister Blade Nzimande addresses 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomy Union in Cape Town. Also on Tuesday, the National Treasury launches the Money Smart Week South Africa 2024.
On Tuesday, 06 August the Department of Employment and Labour holds joint Employment Equity advocacy workshops in partnership with the CCMA kick off in the North West province.
On Wednesday, 07 August, the Department of Employment and Labour holds joint Employment Equity advocacy workshops in partnership with the CCMA.
Also on Wednesday, 07 August through till Saturday, the Basic Education and Sport, Arts and Culture departments host the 2024 ABC Motsepe South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod, at the Rhema Bible Church in Randburg.
Thursday, 08 August, no confirmed events.
Friday, 09 August, Women’s Day will be commemorated nationally by all South Africans.
Neo
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:14
170 views