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Opening of Parliament a time of reflection, renewal
The opening of Parliament is a time of reflection and renewal where the nation looks to its leaders for guidance, vision and assurance, says Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
“Our role as the police is ensuring the safety and security of this event and that cannot be overstated,” he said on Thursday, speaking at the police’s operational readiness parade held at the Castle of Good Hope.
Mchunu said the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) played a fundamental role in ensuring that the country remains safe, particularly during events of national significance.
He told the gathering of police, military officials and security officials tasked with ensuring that the Opening of Parliament takes place under a secure environment that “every action they take should be within the bounds of law, respecting the fundamental freedoms that are the bedrock of democracy”.
“Your duty is to protect the rights of individuals even as you safeguard the state. Our mission remains clear, to protect and serve the people of South Africa with honour and courage,” Mchunu said.
He urged the law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant, stay united and continue to uphold the principles that guide the service.
“Let us work together to ensure that this event proceeds without incident, showcasing the strength and stability of our nation.
“I want to extend my deepest gratitude and appreciation to each one of you. Your unwavering dedication and commitment to safeguarding our nation are the pillars upon which our democracy stands,” Mchunu said.
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga said their role was to support the police. “We are here to support the police and we are ready to protect the nation,” she said.
On Wednesday, the NATJOINTS said it was ready to police the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address.
The NATJOINTS has this year successfully policed a number of major events, including the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, the first sitting of the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures as well as the Presidential Inauguration.
Today’s parade consisted of all law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the National and Provincial Traffic Management and the City of Cape Town Metro Police Department. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 14:51
If you’re looking to sell your Kruger Rand or Krugerrand, knowing the current prices is essential. These iconic gold coins from South Africa are highly valued by collectors and investors worldwide. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the market and understand the Kruger Rand price and Krugerrand price today. Key Factors Influencing Prices …
Opening of Parliament Address: A moment of hope and celebration
Tonight’s Opening of Parliament Address (OPA), to be delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa, bears significance not only for the seventh administration, but also for the celebration of 30 years of democracy in South Africa.
This according to Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli.
The Deputy Minister was speaking to SAnews on the side lines of a commemoration marking Mandela Day, at Nyanga, in the Western Cape.
“It’s significant in a few ways. Firstly, it’s the first address of the administration 30 years into democracy. A lot of countries that have gone through the kind of transition that we have gone through seldom get to a point of having stable elections that are free and fair, and non-violent, 30 years into the democratic dispensation. That’s one thing to celebrate.
“South Africa is a much a better country than it was 30 years ago. Of course we still have challenges but we continue to work with our people,” Mhlauli said.
The Deputy Minister said OPA is a key marker for the seventh administration, which is made up of different political parties in the Government of National Unity.
“Today is going to be the first address of the President in another milestone in our country under a Government of National Unity which is the first of its kind comprising [different] political parties.
“A lot of people said it’s not going to be possible that there will be instability and here we are today; looking forward to hearing the message the President is going to put forward for the next five years ahead,” she said.
Also at the Mandela Day commemoration, Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, told SAnews that he expects President Ramaphosa to reflect on the work that has been done by government over the past 30 years of democracy and how government will build upon that platform.
“I think the President’s speech will be predicated on the strides that we’ve made in the last 30 years. With the establishment of the Government of National Unity, the President will speak to the key priorities that this government would want to focus on… [like] inclusive growth and job creation.
“We obviously want all South Africans to tune in today… as the President addresses the nation and we hope that they will be able to relate to the message that will be delivered by the President of the Republic,” Morolong said.
The Opening of Parliament Address is expected to commence at 7pm tonight, the same day the country and the world commemorate Nelson Mandela International Day. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 13:43
Train commuters receive blankets on Mandela Day
Christmas came early for train commuters at the Cape Town train station this morning, when Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni handed over blankets to them.
One of those who received a blanket was Bulelani Fumbeza from Keisriver, who told SAnews he was happy to have received this special gift on Mandela Day.
“I am happy to receive the blanket on Madiba’s birthday and on a cold day like today. I am going to use the blanket to warm myself while watching the OPA [Opening of Parliament Address] this evening,” said a beaming Fumbeza.
He added that he will never forgot that he received a gift on Madiba’s birthday.
Echoing the same sentiments was Andile Mchunu who lives on the streets of Cape Town.
“I will forever be grateful for this gift, and I will never forget Madiba’s birthday. I wish our new government could do more and provide us with jobs and houses,” Mchunu said.
The distribution of the blankets came as the world today commemorates Mandela Day and the day in which President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at 7pm.
Ntshavheni was accompanied by Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina and Transport Minister Barbara Creecy.
Minister Ntshavheni used the opportunity to encourage commuters and members of the public to tune in to the OPA, which will take place at the Cape Town City Hall.
“We encourage South Africans to watch the President opening Parliament for the seventh administration this evening,” Ntshavheni said on Thursday.
Turning her attention to the youth, the Minister encouraged young people not only to watch the address, but to also visit the City Hall chambers to learn more about former President Nelson Mandela.
The Ministers and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) officials visited the station to raise awareness about the OPA, amongst others.
The Cape Town station - which is used by many commuters, especially during peak hours - was chosen as it is the main station in Cape Town and because of its proximity to the City Hall.
Also as part of this morning’s activation, the Ministers joined the Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and PRASA officials in the unveiling of the 30 years of democracy branded train. This as the country commemorates 30 years of freedom and democracy.
After the unveiling of the Democracy Train, the Ministers embarked on a walkabout at the station.
2024 marks the 30th anniversary of the birth of South Africa's democratic government, a milestone that Nelson Mandela was instrumental in achieving. Globally, he became the symbol of freedom and democracy.
For the 67 years that he spent in prison, fighting for the freedom of South Africa, the government calls upon everyone to spend at least 67 minutes doing something that will have a positive impact and bring lasting change to the lives of those in our communities. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 11:32
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All eyes on SA's First Citizen
Many South Africans are expected to be glued to their screens this evening, 18 July 2024, as they eagerly wait to hear from President Cyril Ramaphosa, when he delivers the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at 7pm.
As South Africa struggles with rising fuel and food prices, youth unemployment, crime and corruption, amongst others, many citizens are seeking hope and will be looking to President Ramaphosa’s speech for much-needed optimism as he leads the country under the Government of National Unity (GNU) banner.
President Ramaphosa was re-elected for a second term last month at the first sitting of the National Assembly since the highly contested elections of 29 May.
He received 283 votes, while the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, received 44 votes for the top job.
The Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, has described the OPA ceremony as a historic event and said that the opening of Parliament reaffirms the government’s commitment to constitutional democracy.
“It serves as a powerful symbol for our nation’s ability to overcome adversity and continue the important work of governance,” Didiza said at a media briefing on Thursday to outline Parliament's state of readiness for the big event today, expected to showcase all the colourful and elegantly put together ceremonial aspects, befitting the Opening of Parliament.
Key areas
Speaking to SAnews, University of South Africa (Unisa) political analyst, Professor Dirk Kotze, said he expected the President's speech to focus on the economy.
“The issues he emphasised in the past will continue; the economic recovery plan, I suspect will still be the basis of his focus and [the] employment matter - how to create employment.”
Kotze also believes that the President will address infrastructure matters, foreign investments, and issues regarding electricity and water.
“I think the matter that is an overarching issue is how to deal with the fiscal issue and how there’s a reduction of the budgets in all of the different departments and how to try to improve the fiscal situation as a whole,” he told SAnews.
According to Kotze, the President’s speech usually covers almost all the departments, and that people can expect the same from the OPA.
He will also reaffirm the government's commitment to the fundamental principles of multilateralism, non-partisanship, and democracy, said the analyst.
“He should also create an environment which will make the GNU attractive for South Africans and the international community. I don’t know how exactly he’s going to do it, but he will have to build trust in the new government.”
Kotze also suspects that President Ramaphosa will address the GNU, discussing what they have already agreed upon, how it should function, and how Cabinet should operate.
“I think that will be the important part of the speech,” he explained.
The road to OPA
The Opening of Parliament signifies the formal start of the parliamentary year and is usually marked by grandeur, ceremony, and glamorous fashion that sparks conversation.
However, it is more than just that; but a significant ceremony where the Head of State outlines the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies during a joint sitting of the newly constituted two Houses of Parliament to deliver the OPA of the seventh administration.
The OPA occurs once every five years, following the Provincial and National Elections. It outlines the new administration’s plans and the official opening of the new five-year term of Parliament.
The President presided over the first Cabinet lekgotla of the administration at Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria over the weekend, where Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and Premiers gathered to discuss the government’s agenda.
The OPA will also provide an opportunity to hear the direction government is taking under the GNU.
According to Parliament, the address serves as a unifying force for the whole nation to collaborate and continue the progress made by past governments.
“It draws us in a common front to find ways to address the challenges we face and improve the lives of people.”
Mandela Day
This year’s opening of Parliament coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day.
July 18 marks the birthday of the founding President of a democratic South Africa and is a global celebration. It is a day for personal and collective actions for good that honour the leader’s life and legacy.
The Presidency has since called on citizens and communities to take time to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and to make a positive impact on communities globally.
The OPA will take place at the Cape Town City Hall.
South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone.
Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:57
Home Affairs has failed to comply with two court rulings
Heavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address
Heavy rains and cold weather is expected in Cape Town tomorrow evening as President Cyril Ramaphosa convenes a joint sitting of the newly established two Houses of Parliament to deliver the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA).
South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecaster, Samkelisiwe Thwala, told SANews on Wednesday that isolated scattered showers and rain with a portion of a cold front are expected in the Western Cape, with South Western parts expecting 80% chance of rain and showers on Thursday.
“We also have three weather alerts that are associated with cold fronts. [There is a] Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rain, leading to localised flooding of roads, which is expected over the Cape Winelands, City of Cape Town, parts of the West Coast, and Theewaterskloof Municipalities,” Thwala said.
Thwala warned of a further cold front approaching on Friday.
“It is going to be two-days of rainy and cold weather. Strong winds and damaging waves are also predicted for the coastal areas up to Plettenberg Bay on the southeast coast,” Thwala said.
Opening of Parliament
The opening of Parliament, which will be attended by members of both Houses, the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces, will mark the start of the new five-year parliamentary cycle.
The address provides President Ramaphosa with an opportunity to outline the key priorities and policies of the seventh administration.
The new administration is made up of several political parties that formed a Government of National Unity founded on the respect for the Constitution, the Bill of Rights in its entirety, a united South Africa, and the rule of law.
The Opening of Parliament Address also coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day, which calls on people around the world to take action to help change the world for the better, and by doing so, build a global movement for good.
Government has invited all South Africans to be part of the Opening of Parliament Address at 7pm.
South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone.
Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:01
Opening of Parliament "a significant event" for the country’s democratic process
Speaker of the National Assembly Thoko Didiza says the Opening of Parliament is a significant event for the country’s democratic process, convened by the President in accordance with section 84 of the Constitution.
“It stands as one of the few occasions that brings the three arms of the State -- the executive, legislature and judiciary -- under one roof, reaffirming the commitment of all branches of State to democratic principles, accountability and cooperation in the pursuit of national progress and prosperity,” Didiza said.
Addressing media on the state of readiness to host the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Wednesday, Didiza said following the adoption of the new joint rules of Parliament in November 2023, they now make a clear distinction between the Opening of Parliament Address and the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The theme for the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) is: "My Parliament, My Voice, My Future".
“The Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) serves as a pivotal platform for the President to articulate the administration's comprehensive plans and long-term vision for the upcoming five-year term,” Didiza said.
Didiza explained that this landmark event not only outlines government's strategic objectives and policy priorities but also officially inaugurates the new parliamentary term.
“[OPA] symbolises the continuity of democratic governance and sets the stage for legislative and executive collaboration in addressing national challenges and pursuing the country's development goals.
“The State of the Nation Address (SONA), delivered annually by the President in February, serves as a platform to review government's past year performance and outline its agenda for the coming year.
“The Joint Rules also aim to maintain order and decorum in the Chamber, while promoting civility among Members.
“Key provisions of the new rules prohibit members from interrupting the President during the Opening of Parliament Address and further stipulate that this joint sitting must focus solely on the specific business for which it is convened,” Didiza said.
Didiza said the measures are designed to preserve the dignity of Parliament and underscore the importance of these addresses in shaping the nation's legislative and developmental agenda.
This year's OPA holds particular significance, as it coincides with the commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of South Africa's constitutional democracy.
She explained that this provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the inception of democratic governance and to determine the path that will be travelled in the next five years in the advancement of democracy.
“The OPA also takes place on Nelson Mandela Day, on 18 July 2024, a day of great importance which resonates with Parliament's commitment to the ideals of democracy, freedom, equality, and service to humanity.
“This OPA is truly historic as it is taking place under unique, complex, and testing political conditions in our nation, following the outcome of the 2024 Provincial and National Elections.
“These elections have resulted in the formation of a collaborative and unity government to lead our nation for the next five years,” she said.
Didiza said it's important to note that the hosting of the OPA represents the culmination of a multifaceted project to establish the seventh term of Parliament.
“In the weeks since the elections, we have successfully arranged and onboarded all 454 Members of Parliament across both Houses, successfully convened the first sittings of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, concluded the elections of Presiding Officers of Parliament, established committees and elected chairpersons, appointed office-bearers to serve in various structures and immediately proceeded to debate departmental budget votes,” Didiza said.
Didiza also explained that this year’s theme resonates with the momentous 30-year milestone of the country’s democracy under which the 7th Parliament is established, reaffirming renewed commitment to a people-centred Parliament and tireless dedication to transforming democratic achievements into tangible improvements in the lives of all South Africans.
“It emphasises the personal stake each citizen has in our democratic institutions and the collective future we are building together,” she said.
About the Opening of Parliament Address
The Opening of Parliament Address takes place once every five years, after the Provincial and National Elections, to outline the new administration's plans while also marking the official opening of the new five-year term of Parliament.
The OPA will take place at the Cape Town City Hall on 18 July 2024 at 19:00.
As of July 14, Cape Town City Hall has been officially designated as the parliamentary precinct in accordance with Section 2 of the Powers, Privileges, and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act.
Among the esteemed guests invited to attend are:
• Former Presidents: Mr. Thabo Mbeki, Mr. Kgalema Motlanthe, and Mr. Jacob Zuma
• Former Speaker and Deputy President: Ms. Baleka Mbete
• Former Deputy Presidents: Ms. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Mr. David Mabuza
• Former National Assembly Speakers and National Council of Provinces Chairpersons
• Chief Justice Zondo, Deputy Chief Justice Maya, and 15 Judges
• Executive Mayor of Cape Town: Alderman Geordin Hill-Lewis
• 9 Eminent Persons representing each of the provinces.
- SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:02
Locals nostalgic as opening of parliament draws close
With the hours ticking closer to the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA), parliamentary officials are busy finalising preparations for Thursday night’s ceremony.
On the ground, some locals are expressing nostalgia for the Opening of Parliament that took place in 1994 - 30 years ago.
A local resident, Skhosana Mkhwanazi, told SAnews that he cannot wait for the address tomorrow.
“This Parliament reminds me of Madiba’s Parliament, the Government of National Unity (GNU). I feel this is real democracy,” Mkhwanazi said.
He added that he hopes the political parties in the GNU will work together to advance the interests of all South Africans.
“I am confident that things are going to change for the better. Our lives are going to change for the better and there’s going to be better service delivery in our communities and there’s going to be less corruption. What has happened during the elections [of 29 May], was what people wanted. It was God’s will that all the parties should work together,” Mkhwanazi said.
Echoing the same sentiments was Arkell Marson who expressed his irritation at politicians who were enriching themselves and forgetting about the people who voted them in power.
“All the parties are going to work together to improve our lives and create more job opportunities,” he told SAnews.
As of 14 July 2024, the Cape Town City Hall has been officially designated as the parliamentary precinct in accordance with Section 2 of the Powers, Privileges, and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act.
Streets in the vicinity of the City Hall have been closed and the red carpet has been rolled out for President Cyril Ramaphosa, his Deputy Paul Mashatile, Cabinet Ministers, Parliamentarians and other guests who will be attending the address which will get underway at 7pm.
Despite the predicted rainy weather, all is on track for tomorrow’s big day.
READ | Heavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address
On the opposite side of the hall, a big marquee has been set up and both the community and national media representatives have taken their positions therin. Meanwhile, military and police officials are also dotting their I's and crossing their T’s.
Within the vicinity of the City Hall, decorations with flowers have been put up, where only police, military and government vehicles are allowed.
“We have accredited about 9 000 journalists to cover the Opening of Parliament tomorrow,” Parliamentary spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said on Wednesday.
Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, earlier today said this historic event marks the beginning of the seventh term of a democratic Parliament and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to constitutional democracy.
“We look forward to welcoming all participants to this significant occasion, which promises to be a compelling demonstration of our nation's democratic principles, unity and resilience,” she said.
Mandela Day
This year’s opening of Parliament is unique as it takes place on Nelson Mandela’s birthday, 18 July.
In this regard, Parliament has called upon all parliamentarians, South Africans and global citizens to emulate Madiba's selflessness and untiring service to humanity.
The Presiding Officers of Parliament will tomorrow take time away from their OPA duties to participate in service programs around Cape Town.
This, according to the Speaker of the National Assembly, holds particular significance, as it coincides with the commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of South Africa's constitutional democracy. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 16:40
The organisation has nonetheless continued to provide humanitarian relief
Opening of Parliament to feature TshiVenda Imbongi
The upcoming Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) will feature the cultural tradition of an Imbongi, bridging the country’s rich heritage with democratic present, says Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza.
Didiza explained that the Imbongi's role extends far beyond mere performance. "They are tasked with poetically reflecting on the socio-economic and political state of the nation, offering insightful commentary on the country's rich cultural tapestry”.
Addressing the media on the state of readiness for the OPA in Cape Town, Didiza said the Imbongi will perform in TshiVenda.
They are chosen through a rotational selection process to ensure fair representation of South Africa's linguistic diversity.
“Lutendo Evens Mugagadeli, widely known as "Vendaboy Poet," is the chosen Imbongi for the upcoming Opening of Parliament Address. This multi-talented artist has made a name for himself as a praise poet, musician, promoter, voiceover artist, writer, and presenter,” Didiza said.
She said Vendaboy Poet rose to national prominence after an impromptu performance of praise poetry for President Cyril Ramaphosa on a domestic flight, showcasing his quick wit and artistic prowess.
“His unique, raw and homegrown talent has since graced both domestic and international stages, earning him multiple accolades.
“Among his notable achievements are winning the Best Poet category at the 2018 South African Traditional Music Awards (SATMA), Best SATMA Tshivenda Album in 2019, and Best SATMA Praise-Singer in 2022.
“Vendaboy Poet's versatility and skill have seen him perform at high-profile events, including the BRICS Summit in South Africa, various awards ceremonies, festivals, and corporate and government functions,” Didiza said.
His selection as the Imbongi for the Opening of Parliament Address reflects both his exceptional talent and the importance of TshiVenda in South Africa's rich linguistic tapestry.
Didiza said Vendaboy Poet's performance promises to add a powerful cultural dimension to this significant national event.
Through this OPA, Didiza said Parliament will once again collaborate with Proudly South Africa, government and fashion industry representatives, to promote the use of locally produced attire to boost the local economy.
“This initiative urges Members of Parliament and guests to wear South African designs to boost the local fashion industry, celebrate national creativity, and support economic growth.
“By showcasing homegrown talent, this partnership not only highlights the richness of South African fashion, but also contributes to job creation and economic empowerment,” Didiza said.
The OPA coincides with International Nelson Mandela Day.
Parliament has called on all parliamentarians, South Africans and global citizens to emulate Madiba's selflessness and untiring service to humanity on this day.
Didiza encouraged everyone to engage in meaningful and impactful acts of service to others, thereby changing the world around us.
The Presiding Officers of Parliament will take time away from their OPA duties to participate in service programs around Cape Town, working with non-governmental organisations and institutions. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:22
The 7th annual edition of Creative Coffee Week (CCW) in partnership with FNB, held every July in Durban since 2018, is bringing one of the biggest names in Specialty Coffee to South Africa. The event is taking from 24-26th July 2024 at FNB’s Acacia House on Umhlanga Ridge. Patrik Rolf, from April Coffee in Denmark, …
Commemorating Nelson Mandela International Day in our 30 years of freedom and democracy
By Nomonde Mnukwa
Every year on 18 July, South Africans from all walks of life join together to celebrate and honour a man who changed the world for the better. This commemoration pays tribute to the life and works of the late former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who was the first black president of our democratic government and a global icon.
During this time, people around the world are encouraged to advance Madiba’s legacy and uphold his ideals of a non-racial, non-sexist and equal society.
Mandela Day was introduced in 2009 following a unanimous decision by the General Assembly of the United Nations. It was aimed at encouraging a young generation of leaders to take responsibility in addressing challenges faced by people around the world.
In South Africa we get a chance to celebrate Madiba for the whole month of July.
This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day will be celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”. This occasion also presents us with an opportunity to work together to build the country we envisioned at the start of our democracy. This includes taking care of the most vulnerable in our society.
In honour of Madiba, government is calling on everyone in the country to use this Mandela Day to improve the lives of those in need. Let us go to our communities to help address some of the problems that our people face as Madiba did many years ago. These actions can range from doing work in your community or providing other necessities to those who are in need.
You can start a community food garden or donate food to a soup kitchen in your community. This is in line with the spirit of Ubuntu that says a person is a person through other people. Our actions can go a long way towards taking the legacy of our icon forward and for the next generation to learn from us. Our history shows that if we work together we can overcome all the challenges we face.
Several events will be held throughout the month to inspire positive change within our communities. This includes the 2024 Mandela Day Walk and Run event which will be held on 20 July 2024 at the DP World Wanderers Stadium. Those who want to participate can choose from the 5km, 10km, and 21km distances.
This year’s Mandela Day takes on an added significance as it coincides with the Opening of Parliament Address for the 7th Administration. The opening provides President Cyril Ramaphosa an opportunity to outline the key priorities and policies of the administration which is made up of several political parties that formed a Government of National Unity (GNU). The GNU is bound by a commitment to respect the constitution and to promote accountable, transparent and good governance.
Government invites all South Africans to be part of the Opening of Parliament Address on Thursday, 18 July 2024 at 7pm.
South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone. Proceedings will also be covered via government and parliamentary social media accounts. South Africans should also familiarise themselves with the contents of the address so everyone can contribute to our growth and development.
Throughout this year, we are also commemorating 30 years of democracy and freedom, and occasions such as a Mandela Day are a reminder of just how far we have come. As government we have various plans to celebrate and mark this national milestone throughout the year.
We have already launched the Democracy Bus Project to draw South Africans from across the country into our nation’s celebration. The bus will journey to different parts of our amazing country – from our nation’s towering cities to deep rural communities – to share our unique story of South Africa rising from a turbulent past to the vibrant hopeful nation.
The Democracy Bus and the story it tells is a reminder of the road we have travelled since 1994, along with the many sacrifices made by generations before who defiantly fought for a better life for all. Their actions, along with icons such as Madiba and many others have given us an opportunity to live in a society where all are valued, and can work to make South Africa a better country to live in.
*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS
Neo
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:39
Several roads closed in city centre for the opening of Parliament
The City of Cape Town has announced the closure of several roads near the Cape Town City Hall before the Opening of Parliament on Thursday.
Officials are set for the opening of Parliament where President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver his speech tomorrow evening. This comes after he was re-elected as the President of South Africa at the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh democratic administration last month.
According to the city, the road closures will be in effect to assist with traffic flow and accommodate the Opening of Parliament Address at the City Hall - the first for the seventh administration.
“This will affect the normal flow of traffic in and around the city bowl.”
Road users are urged to familiarise themselves with the closures and to plan their routes accordingly.
“Motorists should also note that there will be restricted parking in some areas,” the city said.
A full list of the road closures can be accessed at https://bit.ly/3WotE5C.
While some roads have already been closed, others will be closed from as early as 4am on Thursday. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:02
Successful AI projects in education place bright spotlight on SA startup South Africa, 10 July: Novus Holdings has announced a R55m investment in Bytefuse, an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) company, to enhance its capabilities to deliver enterprise scale AI solutions. Having observed Bytefuse’s success in enhancing Maskew Miller Learning’s (MML) educational services through advanced AI solutions, …
Deputy Ministers to commemorate Mandela Day in Nyanga
As South Africa joins the world in the celebration of Mandela Day, Deputy Ministers in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong and Nonceba Mhlauli will tomorrow spend their 67 minutes in honour of Nelson Mandela at the John Pama Primary School in Nyanga, Cape Town.
Mandela International Day is celebrated on 18 July every year in honour of the first democratically elected President of South Africa, the late Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.
The Deputy Ministers will visit the school that serves over 800 learners. The school is a quintile 2 facility, catering to some of the most underprivileged children in the city.
Together with 35 dedicated educators and staff members, the school strives to make a significant impact on the education and well-being of these children.
This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”.
The month of July provides the opportunity to heed the call to action for people to recognise their individual power to make an imprint and change the world around them.
This year, South Africa marks Nelson Mandela Day as the country recently ushered in the seventh democratic administration, following the successful conclusion of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections in May. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 13:04
"New system" is needed to deal with natural disasters in SA
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, says South Africa is at an increased risk of natural disasters and needs a “new system” to manage these challenges more effectively.
“I wish to take this time to also convey our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those who have tragically lost their lives. We also acknowledge work undertaken to rebuild our societies and we urge all government structures to increase the speed of responding to the plight of communities,” Hlabisa said on Wednesday during his Budget Vote Speech.
He recognised the vital role played by the department following the floods and fires currently affecting communities in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
“We have learned with heavy hearts of the passing of 14 people who died in the veld fires in KZN. Among the 14, six were firefighters, some volunteers. These brave men and women paid the ultimate price to save communities. We convey our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of all the victims. May their souls find eternal rest.”
Hlabisa tabled the CoGTA 2024/25 budget, at R395.7 billion, with a significant portion 95.9% (R379.61 billion) to be transferred to municipalities and affiliated entities.
A total of R379.6 billion of the department’s total budget over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period will primarily cover the local government equitable share, disaster relief grant and the municipal infrastructure grant.
The Minister recognised that it was only through the department’s urgent interventions that lives and livelihoods were saved and thanked all those who are collaborating with government to assist distressed communities.
Hlabisa and his team are expected to visit the affected areas in KwaZulu-Natal to assess the situation and provide support.
In Cape Town, over 33 000 households have been affected across the metropole in both formal and informal settings following the floods, affecting some 95 000 people.
“We recognise that the challenges we face in disaster management are largely because South Africa has experienced not only an increase in the number of disasters - such as droughts, floods, COVID-19, and severe weather – but also an increase in their magnitude, severity, and impact.
“These events have occurred either simultaneously or in rapid succession, straining our resources and systems.”
However, the Minister believes that the challenges faced in disaster management are primarily due to deficiencies in regulatory legislation, which are not designed to adapt to the ever-changing risk environment.
“The systemic and structural design of our disaster management delivery, as guided by current laws, results in issues with timing and bureaucracy. Key elements of the disaster management function were assigned to municipalities through legislation, but without funding.”
He told the Members of Parliament (MPs) that this created a contradiction between the Disaster Management Act and the Municipal Systems Act (MSA) which requires sufficient funding and capacity for assigned functions.
“Consequently, municipalities lack the necessary funding and capacity.”
He admitted that government’s response has struggled with agility, efficiency, and effectiveness in risk analysis, prevention, mitigation, emergency preparedness, early warning systems, and recovery services.
He told MPs that the fire and rescue services also face significant hurdles and that in 2022, Cabinet mandated the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) to review and overhaul the disaster management system, including fire services.
“In response to this, we are proposing a new system for disaster management and fire services.”
This system, he said, aims to improve governance by reorganising administrative structures and financing models to better respond to growing disaster risks.
“We have since developed a new model based on best practices from New Zealand, Russia, Brazil, Mozambique, California, and Australia. The new model emphasises risk reduction and integrates disaster management into all levels of government planning, ensuring adequate funding and focus on resilience.”
He told Parliament that the NDMC undertook extensive consultations with all stakeholders through existing disaster management structures and across the three spheres of government and that inputs were received and used to refine the proposed model.
“We look forward to working with all stakeholders in the management of disasters, including rolling out training to Houses of Traditional Leadership, particularly those in disaster-prone areas, on disaster management.
“This will enable them to work closely with all spheres of government and stakeholders on the ground to assist in disasters. An implementation plan has been developed in this regard for effective implementation of this training,” he added.
This year, the department also signed a Memorandum of Collaboration with the Department of Defence that will see the Community Work Programme (CWP) participants playing a role in disaster preparedness and community development. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 11:32
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