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Investment in rail critical for Africa’s socio-economic growth

Location: News

Investment in rail critical for Africa’s socio-economic growth

President of the Southern African Railways Association (SARA), Hishaam Emeran, has called on the African continent to harness the potential of rail as it has a critical role to play in growing the economy and creating jobs.

“We must harness rail’s potential on the continent and in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) by embarking on ambitious programmes that will expand the role of both passenger and freight rail. These systems have the potential to contribute to our continent’s socio-economic prosperity,” Emeran said on Thursday.

Addressing the Africa Rail 2024 Conference at the Sandton Convention Centre, he said investment in modern rail infrastructure could radically improve efficiencies in the sphere of moving of goods and people.

Emeran, who is also the Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), said fixing and upgrading rail is an important goal, given the burden that Africa’s roads carry.

“There is excellent work being done in the logistics space, driven in South Africa by the Presidency. Our transport networks must receive this level of priority because the economic and social costs of a failing rail system, and that of the congested roads we see across the continent, far outweighs the costs of improving and modernising our railway network.

“Also given the high levels of unemployment across much of the continent, affordable, safe and reliable public transport, with rail as the backbone, is critical,” he said.

In 2023, the South African government established the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC), which is chaired by the Presidency and brings together all of the relevant government departments to drive a coordinated response to the logistics challenges.

The committee has achieved steady progress. The Freight Logistics Roadmap was approved by Cabinet, enabling urgent reforms in the freight logistics sector.

A crucial reform is the development of a Network Statement, which sets out the process for rail operators to access the network.  A draft statement was released for public comment.  

The Freight Logistics Roadmap outlines a range of actions required to restore the efficiency and competitiveness of key industry supply chains, as well as ports and rail more generally. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 09:49

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Call to dispel myths associated with albinism

Location: News

Call to dispel myths associated with albinism

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has joined the global community in calling for more efforts to raise awareness of the rights of persons with albinism.

Albinism is a genetic condition that affects around one in 4 000 people in South Africa. 

It is a rare condition that can result in a lack of melanin pigment, and people with albinism in South Africa are considered to have a lifelong physical impairment and disability.

The department’s Director-General, Advocate Mikateko Maluleke, said access to adequate learning, participation in economic opportunities and employment remains a challenge for learners and youth with disabilities, including those with albinism in South Africa.

“The National Albinism Task Force in South Africa and Amnesty International called on the South African government to take immediate steps to respect, promote, and fulfil all the rights of persons with albinism and ensure that all those who violate such rights are held accountable. 

“For this reason, we call on all the youth of South Africa to support all the youth programs and initiatives from civil society; government, and the private sector aimed at educating and creating awareness on albinism,” Maluleke said.

Maluleke highlighted that the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa guarantees that everyone has the right to life, emphasising that people with disabilities, especially youth with disabilities, are particularly at risk and require specific measures to protect this right. 

“The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, through its Disabilities Rights Awareness Campaign continue to encourage civil society organisations and the private sector to invest in public educational programmes that will help to dispel the misconception and discriminatory practices on albinism,” Maluleke said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 11:06

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Community and conservation initiatives take centre stage at Ballito Pro

Location: MyPR

The 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill celebrates the ocean through surfing, seaside activities, and a dedicated conservation and community empowerment programme. As the Ballito Pro festival gets underway in KwaDukuza from 25 June to 8 July 2024, there are many ways for visitors to get involved and support these positive initiatives. “The reality is …

Read moreCommunity and conservation initiatives take centre stage at Ballito Pro

Clarins Celebrates Partnership with Save the Children South Africa at Hyde Park Corner

Location: MyPR

Clarins has collaborated with Save the Children South Africa supporting childhood nutrition and Early Childhood Care and Development Centres with a unique Clarins Carousel Pop-Up inside Woolworths Hyde Park Corner. “For 70 years, Clarins has been dedicated to genuine and natural beauty. For Clarins, beauty is meaningless without humanity, generosity, and openness to others. Our …

Read moreClarins Celebrates Partnership with Save the Children South Africa at Hyde Park Corner

NERSA approves applications for electricity tariffs

Location: News

NERSA approves applications for electricity tariffs

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has completed considering the approving of all 178 licenced electricity distributors’ tariff applications for the 2024/25 financial year for effective implementation on 1 July 2024.

“NERSA processed the 2024/25 distributors’ tariff applications in line with the provisions of the Electricity Regulation Act and also in compliance with the High Court order in the Nelson Mandela Chamber of Business,” the Regulator said on Friday.

The applications were published on the NERSA website to solicit comments from affected parties, which were taken into consideration in the decision-making process.

Distributors were required to submit their tariff applications for the 2024/25 financial year based on their cost of supply studies.

Those distributors without the cost of supply studies were required to provide NERSA with a breakdown of their electricity distribution-related costs. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 11:23

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Implementing Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Classroom Learning

Location: MyPR

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) have rapidly evolved from their nascent stages into powerful educational tools over the past few decades. As an Academic and the Teaching, Learning & Manager at Regent Business School, Bryson Pather has observed how these immersive technologies revolutionise the way we teach and learn. Initially limited to experimental …

Read moreImplementing Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Classroom Learning

SA ready to host World Rugby Under 20 Championship

Location: News

SA ready to host World Rugby Under 20 Championship

The City of Cape Town says it is excited to welcome back the 12 participating nations in the World Rugby Under 20 Championship.

The 14th edition of the World Rugby U20 Championship takes place between 29 June and 19 July 2024, with South Africa being back-to-back hosts.

“What better time to have the World Rugby U20 Championship than during the school holidays. The event’s return to Cape Town for the second successive year is a testament to the Mother City’s reputation as a leading events destination.

“We are excited to support this event, bringing together some of the world's top talent and heart of rugby's next generation. I encourage all Capetonians to go out and show their support for our Junior Boks as well as welcome the visiting teams with electrifying gees,” City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said on Thursday.

The tournament sees the world’s 12 best nations competing over five match days across three world-class venues.

Athlone Stadium will stage pool matches while the iconic DHL Stadium will play host to key fixtures, including the opener, semi-finals and the final.

Selected matches will also be hosted at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch.

Fixtures

The Junior Boks go into the tournament having finished with a bronze medal at the 2023 championships held in the Mother City.

“This year’s championship sees the host nation in Pool C with England, Argentina and Fiji. France, Wales, New Zealand and Spain are in Pool A and 2023 runners-up Australia, Georgia and Italy are in Pool B.

“During the pool stages, six games will be played on match days, with kick-off times scheduled at 14:00, 16:30, and 19:00. The defending champions, France, open the tournament against debutantes Spain, while the host nation will kick off with a clash against Fiji at the DHL Stadium on 29 June 2024,” the city said.

SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer believes the tournament will match the excitement levels from last year’s competition.

“The World Rugby U20 Championship plays an important role in the global rugby picture and is key in promoting and growing the game, while we are also excited to unearth the next generation of Springboks,” Oberholzer said.

Tournament tickets are available through Ticketmaster, starting at R35 for children 18 years old and younger, and R75 for adults.

A ticket gives fans admission to three games a day per venue.

Traffic Restrictions

Meanwhile, residents and motorists are reminded to plan their travel as the following road restrictions will be in effect on match days:

  • Athlone Stadium - Road closures are effective from 12:00 to 20:00. Hickory Road will be made a temporary one-way from Klipfontein Road towards Springbok Road with no access from Springbok Road.
  • DHL Stadium - Road closures are effective from 13:00 to 20:00. Full closure in both directions of Fritz Sonnenberg Road & Vlei Road.

For more information and other events hosted in Cape Town, the public can visit eventsincapetown.com. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 10:50

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Ready for Paris: Rowing South Africa Completes Final Preparations in Tzaneen

Location: MyPR

Rowing South Africa’s Olympic qualified athletes have been training intensively in Tzaneen, preparing for the upcoming Games in Paris. The team, focusing on the men’s pair and women’s single scull, will leave South Africa on 18th July, with the Olympic rowing events set to commence on 27th July. SASCOC has announced the Men’s Pair of …

Read moreReady for Paris: Rowing South Africa Completes Final Preparations in Tzaneen

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej focuses on Breaking Infertility Stigma in the Third Episode of “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” TV program

Location: News
Merck Foundation

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany has launched the Third Episode of their first-ever TV program – ‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation' on their social media handles.

‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation' is a pan African TV program that is conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation to feature African Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent experts from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa.

The TV program is currently broadcasting on KTN Home in Kenya, every Saturday at 5 pm and repeated every Thursday at 6:30 am.

It has also been broadcasted on prime TV stations of many countries like BTV (Botswana) Mashariki TV (Burundi), GHOne & TV3 (Ghana), QTV (The Gambia), LNTV (Liberia), Mibawa Limited (Malawi), Defi Media (Mauritius), AYV TV (Sierra Leone), NTV (Uganda), ZNBC TV (Zambia), and ZBC (Zimbabwe) and it immediately captured the attention and hearts of millions of viewers across Africa. “Our Africa” TV Program will soon be broadcast on GTV in Ghana, NBC in Namibia, and ZTN in Zimbabwe. “Our Africa” TV Program is also currently on social media handles of Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3RdVvT8, Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/3RcCFeZ, Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/3x5PUY2 and YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/4aJfWy0) and Merck Foundation (Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3Xbc4D0, Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/3x7ius3, Twitter: http://apo-opa.co/4aTy5sW and YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/4ejGIjF).

Watch the Promo of ‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation' here:

https://apo-opa.co/3L8inj6

The theme for the Third Episode is Breaking the Infertility Stigma, particularly around women, in Africa.

Watch the Third Episode promo here: https://apo-opa.co/4clWEAl

Watch the Third Episode here: https://apo-opa.co/3xCfMuK

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation expressed, “Firstly, I would like to thank all the viewers and followers for the amazing response we have received for our TV Program ‘Our Africa'. Our social media is flooded with lovely and inspiring messages from the viewers! This episode is indeed close to my heart as an African woman, as it is part of our signature campaign “More than a Mother”, the work we have created by our fashion designers and artists all over Africa was very encouraging and kept pushing us to work harder to address this sensitive issue and empower infertile women through information, health and change of mindset. And of course, we will keep addressing more sensitive social and health issues to be the voice of the voiceless in our beloved Africa”.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation further emphasized, “The messages of the designs are also focusing on the issue of male infertility and how fertility is a shared responsibility as it takes a man and woman to have a child. We have addressed this issue through our Fashion and Art with Purpose community. Together we can create a culture shift that will help our communities better understand and act on different issues. Through this episode, I also got a chance to thank my dear sisters, the African First Ladies who I have worked very closely with Merck Foundation for this Movement, as Ambassadors of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother.

I would also like to thank our viewers for the amazing response we have been receiving, this is indeed very inspiring and encouraging. Moreover, I would especially like to acknowledge the love we have been receiving from our social media followers, it is phenomenal.”

Merck Foundation's iconic “More Than a Mother” campaign started and led by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej is a rallying movement to Break Infertility Stigma faced by women across the African continent.

“More Than a Mother' Movement is very close to my heart. Along with all the initiatives under this Movement, Merck Foundation also supports building healthcare capacity in Africa, therefore, I am happy to share that Merck Foundation has provided more than 574 scholarships to doctors from 39 countries, with the aim to advance women's health by building Reproductive & Sexual care and Fertility Care Capacity in Africa and beyond. Moreover, we have trained more than 3200 media representatives from more than 35 countries to raise community awareness, creating a culture shift and breaking the stigma around infertility and infertile and childless women” explained Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

This third episode featured prominent personalities like Nontando Mposo, Editor-in-Chief, Glamour Magazine, South Africa and popular Singer Blaze from Mozambique. Fashion designers Anuja Bharti from Ghana and Alberto from Mozambique showcased their designs that displayed strong messages on #NoToInfertilityStigma and #MenToo can be the cause of infertility.

Merck Foundation has also been empowering childless and infertile women through their “Empowering Berna” initiative under Merck Foundation's “More Than a Mother” movement. This initiative helps women who cannot be treated for infertility anymore by helping them to get trained to establish small businesses so that they can be independent and re-build their lives. Through ‘Empowering Berna', the lives of many infertile women have been transformed in many African countries like Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Niger, Malawi and many more.

Merck Foundation in partnership with African First Ladies have also launched children's storybook “More Than a Mother”, to emphasize strong family values of love and respect from a young age which will reflect on eliminating the stigma of infertility and resulted domestic violence in the future. The book has been also adapted to an animation film. Watch More than a Mother Animation Film here:

https://apo-opa.co/4cbefLj

Merck Foundation has also released many songs to raise awareness about infertility stigma under their “More Than a Mother” campaign. Listen to some of the songs here:

  1. Watch, share & subscribe to the 'Plus qu'une MERE' composed and sung by Ms. Lucky-Lou, the daughter of The President and The First Lady of Burundi: https://apo-opa.co/3L5eQT0
  2. Watch, share & subscribe to the “More Than a Mother” song by Cwesi Oteng and Adina from Ghana: https://apo-opa.co/3ziuKH0

Listen to all “More than a Mother” songs here:

“To address this important issue of breaking infertility stigma and also a wide range of other social issues, we annually launch Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' Awards in partnership with African First Ladies. I would also like to invite the African Community of Media, Fashion, Film making, and Musicians, students and potential talents in these fields to apply for the awards this year, in order to create a culture shift and break the silence about one or more of the following topics: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels. I am looking forward to receiving their creative work on submit@merck-foundation.com”, added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard: 
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3Xbc4D0
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4aTy5sW
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4ejGIjF
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3x7ius3
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4ejGKbh
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/45ourGB

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3Xbc4D0, Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4aTy5sW, Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3x7ius3, YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4ejGIjF and Flicker https://apo-opa.co/4ejGKbh.

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Read moreSenator, Dr. Rasha Kelej focuses on Breaking Infertility Stigma in the Third Episode of “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” TV program

“The Black Business Council (BBC) confers Game – Changer and Lifetime Awardss to deserving South Africans” according to Kganki Matabane, BBC CEO.

Location: MyPR

“The Black Business Council (BBC) confers Game – Changer and Lifetime Awards to deserving South Africans” according to Kganki Matabane, BBC CEO. The full list of awardees and reasons why they are recognised are listed below: Game – Changer Awards Mr Gregory Nott Greg is presented with a Game – Changer Award for his courageous …

Read more“The Black Business Council (BBC) confers Game – Changer and Lifetime Awardss to deserving South Africans” according to Kganki Matabane, BBC CEO.

The Final Results For The Sea Harvest Ethekweni Junior Open, New Pier 21-23 June.

Location: MyPR

Nate Colby, U18 Winner, © Dean Vincent The Sea Harvest Ethekweni Junior Open took place at Dairy Beach over the weekend of 21-23 June. Conditions were small, the wind was blustery, and the Surfing South Africa event officials did a sterling job of running this competition in at-times challenging conditions. For the surfers, it was …

Read moreThe Final Results For The Sea Harvest Ethekweni Junior Open, New Pier 21-23 June.

Presidency announces Opening of Parliament date

Location: News

Presidency announces Opening of Parliament date

President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the Opening of Parliament on 18 July 2024, the Presidency said on Friday.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa has called a Joint Sitting of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) for the Opening of Parliament and the President’s delivery of the Opening of Parliament Address

The President has called for the Opening of Parliament to take place on Thursday 18 July 2024, as a platform for the President to outline the priorities of the 7th Administration,” said the Presidency in a statement.

The President has asked that Parliament convene in terms of Section 84(2)(d) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, read with Rule (13)(1)(a) of the Joint Rules of Parliament.

The Opening of Parliament Address will coincide with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day.

This day, which marks the birthday of the founding President of a democratic South Africa, is a global celebration and day of personal and collective actions for good that honour the leader’s life and legacy.

“The Opening of Parliament on this day is a fitting tribute as it calls on individuals and communities to take time to reflect on Mandela's values and principles and to make a positive impact on communities and globally,” said the Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 08:26

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Beyond tooling-up with technology: Evolving education in the Digital Era

Location: MyPR

By Dr Andrew Hibling, Founder and CEO of EDGE Education Research indicates that the more educated a country’s citizenry is, the higher its GDP per capita and the more prosperous its economy (Bah, 2023). For this reason, it’s crucial for countries to ensure that their efforts in the education sector are effective. In South Africa, …

Read moreBeyond tooling-up with technology: Evolving education in the Digital Era

Strengthening the fight against child labour

Location: News

Strengthening the fight against child labour

Children are the future, and it is our responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being by enabling them to grow and develop in a nurturing environment. The sad reality is that many children across the world face a daunting prospect of being drawn into work at a young age often under harmful conditions.

South Africa values the rights of children and has over the past 30 years sought to protect them from harm and promote their development. Protecting children from violence, exploitation and abuse is not only a basic right but an obligation set out in our Constitution.

This is in conjunction with other legislation such as the Children's Act and Basic Conditions of Employment Act which makes it a criminal offence to employ a child younger than 15 or children who are of school going age. The Children's Act also discourages children from working in mines, factories or in hazardous occupations.

In June, South Africa joined the international community in observing the World Day against Child Labour, under the theme: “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour”. The key commitments to end child labour are contained in the Durban Call to Action – a document adopted by various Member States, including South Africa at the 5th Global Conference on Ending Child Labour that was hosted in Durban in May 2022.  The document outlines strong commitments to end child labour through making decent work a reality, ending child labour in agriculture, strengthening the prevention and elimination efforts, realising children's rights to education, achieving universal access to social protection, and increasing financing as well as international cooperation. It is in this regard that this year’s commemoration raised awareness against child labour practices across the world and promoted initiatives to help put an end to this scourge.

In marking the day on 12 June 2024, our country reaffirmed its commitment in the fight against child labour. The day also coincided with the 25th Anniversary of the Adoption of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention which sets out to protect children against all forms of child labour. It also aims to prevent the use of children in armed conflict, prostitution, pornography, drug trafficking and participating in hazardous work.

The commemorations gave us an opportunity to reflect on the progress made as well as reaffirm our commitments to put an end to child labour. Despite the significant strides made over time to reduce child labour across the world, much still need to be done to fully eradicate the practice of child labour.

According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), child labour has for the first time in 20 years increased globally. It is noted that the agricultural sectors such as farming, fishing, aquaculture, forestry and livestock farming account for 60 percent of child labourers aged five to 17 years.

In our fight against this plight, South Africa has endorsed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1995 and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child in 2000 to affirm its commitment to the realisation of children’s rights.

In addition, the Department of Employment and Labour in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation launched the Prevention and Elimination of Child Labour in South Africa project to prevent and eliminate any forms of child labour in the agricultural sector in the country. The project is being piloted in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

Delivering the keynote address at the launch, former Minister of Employment and Labour Thulas Nxesi expressed concern on the increase of child labour in the agricultural sector.

He said: “The agricultural sector is the backbone of our economy, providing food security and sustenance, as well as livelihood to millions. Yet, it is disheartening to note that some of the very hands that cultivate the crops and tend to the livestock belong to children who should be in schools, not in the fields. This situation is unacceptable and demands our immediate attention and concerted efforts.”

Despite our best efforts to protect children from abuse, neglect and exploitation, many children remain vulnerable. Tackling the scourge of child labour requires interventions on many fronts, and it is a reality that government on its own cannot curb.  As such, businesses have a responsibility to the elimination of child labour by carrying out due diligence in their operations and supply chains and ensuring responsible and sustainable business practices that address the root causes of child labour.

Let us all work together to prevent and eliminate child labour by reporting such acts of crime to the Department of Employment and Labour, or alternatively to the police. 

*Khethani Hlongwa is Director: Office on the Rights of the Child; Department of Social Development

Neo
Thu, 06/27/2024 - 10:45

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NCOP constitutes key committees

Location: News

NCOP constitutes key committees

The Rules Committee of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) has appointed members to constitute the Select Committees, Subcommittee on the Review of the Council Rules and the Programming Committee of the seventh Parliament.

During its first meeting held on Wednesday, the Committee also agreed to reduce the number of its Select Committees to 10 instead of the previous 11 of the sixth Parliament. 

“These Select Committees are the engine room of the NCOP, as they are responsible for overseeing the performance of various government departments. Select committees are also crucial in ensuring consistent focus on provincial issues,” the Committee said in a statement.

The Rules Committee said the decision to reduce the number of Select Committees to 10 will now mean that the Social Cluster will have two committees. 

“The Select Committee on Education and Technology, Sports, Arts and Culture will oversee the Departments of Basic Education, Higher Education, Science and Technology, Communications and Digital Technologies, and Sports, Arts and Culture. 

“The Select Committee on Social Services will oversee the Departments of Health, Social Development, Women, Youth Development and Persons with Disabilities, and Statistics South Africa,” the Committee explained.

The Committee also announced that Governance Cluster will comprise two committees, including the Select Committee on Public Infrastructure, overseeing the work of the Departments of Public Works and Infrastructure, Transport, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation and the Select Committee on Cooperative Governance and Public Administration.

The committees will also overseeing the Departments of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Public Service and Administration, Human Settlements, and Water and Sanitation.

“The Security Cluster has two committees, namely, the Select Committee on Security and Justice, overseeing the Departments of Police, Justice and Correctional Services, Defence and Military Veterans, Home Affairs, State Security, and International Relations and Co-operation, and the Select Committee on Public Petitions and Executive Undertakings,” the Committee said.

The Economic Cluster will include the Select Committee on Economic Development and Trade, overseeing the Departments of Economic Development, Trade, Industry and Competition, Small Business Development and Tourism, Employment and Labour, and Public Enterprises and the Select Committee on Land and Mineral Resources, overseeing the Departments of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Mineral Resources and Energy, and Electricity.

The Finance Cluster has the Select Committee on Finance and the Select Committee on Appropriations to oversee the Treasury.

Elections on four NCOP vacancies scheduled for next week

Meanwhile, the elections to fill the four vacancies in the NCOP for Permanent Deputy Chairperson, House Chairperson for Committees, House Chairperson for Members Support and International Relations, and the Programming Whip of the NCOP have been scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 2 July 2024.

The Rules Committee comprises 20 Council members, including the Permanent Deputy Chairperson, NCOP Chief Whip Kenneth Mmoiemang, the House Chairpersons, the Programming Whip, and the Provincial Whips. Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, who is the Chairperson of the NCOP, chairs the Committee.

The Committee noted that NCOP Rule 133 provides that parties represented in the NCOP that do not have a Provincial Whip, are entitled to be represented in the Rules Committee. 

“The parties without provincial whips are the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Freedom Front Plus (FF+); uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP), Patriotic Alliance (PA), and the United Democratic Alliance (UDM). The EFF will be represented by Mandisa Makesini, FF+ by Tamarin Breedt, MKP by Seeng Mokoena, PA by Bino Farmer, and the UDM by Mandla Peter.

“The NCOP Provincial Whips are Advocate Mwelo Nonkonyana (Eastern Cape), Mapule Dhlamini (Free State), Mpho Modise (Gauteng), Poobalan Govender (KwaZulu-Natal), Regina Molokomme (Limpopo), Sylvia Nxumalo (Mpumalanga), Solomon Mabilo (Northern Cape), Sylvia Sithole (North West), and Frederik Badenhorst (Western Cape),” the Committee said.

The Committee also noted Rule 137 of the NCOP Rules, which states that the Rules Committee may establish a Subcommittee that can make recommendations on the Council Rules, Orders, proceedings, procedures, and practices. 

For the current purposes, the Committee said the five-member Subcommittee includes the NCOP Chairperson, NCOP Chief Whip, and Bhekizizwe Radebe from the African National Congress; Badenhorst from the Democratic Alliance and Makesini from the EFF.

“The NCOP Programming Committee, in terms of Rule 143, has the same members as the NCOP Rules Committee.” - SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 06/27/2024 - 11:14

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Proteas make SA proud

Location: News

Proteas make SA proud

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has congratulated the South African men’s national cricket team, the Proteas Men, for their win in the first semi-final clash of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup tournament.

“Well done to the Proteas Men on reaching the ICC T20 World Cup final. You have made the nation proud. Bring it home Proteas,” the department said on Thursday on the platform X, previously known as Twitter.

South Africa beat Afghanistan by nine wickets on Thursday at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy stadium in Trinidad and Tobago.

On Wednesday, the department had wished the team well ahead of its game.

“Against [a] boisterous crowd at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium all backing the West Indies, the Proteas demonstrated resilience and gallant fighting spirit in overcoming the co-host. Now in the semi-finals, I wish our national heroes well in tomorrow’s semi-final encounter against Afghanistan.

“This is indeed a proud moment for the country, and I would therefore further urge all of us to rally behind the Proteas as they carry our hopes and aspirations. We are always stronger together,” the department’s Acting Director-General, Dr Cynthia Khumalo, said at the time. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 06/27/2024 - 12:15

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Call to submit entries for Golden Shield Heritage Awards

Location: News

Call to submit entries for Golden Shield Heritage Awards

The National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) has called for entries for the Golden Shield Heritage Awards (GOSHA).

The awards recognise excellence in the heritage sector and honours ordinary South Africans at grass-roots community level, who have been actively involved in the conservation management of the country’s heritage.

“If you are one of the many passionate people and dedicated organisations that are doing exceptional work in heritage and culture, the National Heritage Council encourages you to participate,” the Council said.

The awards are inclusive and welcomes all communities, professional organisations, groups, civil society, entities and individuals who are playing a role in the promotion and preservation of South Africa’s cultural heritage for the benefit of current and future generations.

The year 2024 marks the 11th year of the GOSHA in the 30 years of South Africa’s democracy.

“The awards were motivated by the rationale that heritage plays a significant role in promoting social cohesion and community development. Awards such as these, therefore, give acknowledgement and expose the depth of the South African Heritage, which is unique and diverse.

“In this manner, the NHC shows gratitude and takes pride in people who continuously contribute selflessly to the preservation, interpretation and promotion of South Africa’s rich cultural heritage. Do you think your work qualifies you as a Heritage Champion? Don’t delay, send your entry now,” the NHC said.

Entries Closes 25 August 2024. The awards ceremony is expected to take place in September at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town.

More information can be found on https://www.nhc.org.za/golden-shield-heritage-awards/

-SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 06/27/2024 - 12:42

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DFFE drives transformation within the biodiversity sector for economic growth

Location: News

DFFE drives transformation within the biodiversity sector for economic growth

By Mohlago Flora Mokgohloa

Transformation of the Biodiversity Sector remains sacrosanct and is a major lever to ensure that the sector makes a significant contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country whilst conserving valuable natural resources. 

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is entrusted with the constitutional mandate to manage, protect, and conserve South Africa’s environment and natural resources, has made significant strides in conserving our natural resources and ensuring sectoral transformation.

This progress is highlighted by the recent revision of the National Biodiversity Economy Strategy (NBES) which seeks to advance an inclusive biodiversity sector that locally beneficiate the reach indigenous biological and genetic resources for a thriving people and nature. This renewed focus on transformation was central to discussions during the 2024 Biodiversity Economy and Investment Indaba (BEII) held earlier this year in March in Ekurhuleni east of Johannesburg, Gauteng.

Many of the over 1000 participants at the BEII reiterated that the Biodiversity Sector as a whole urgently requires transformation. This transformation must ensure the meaningful and equitable inclusion of rural communities and previously disadvantaged individuals into the biodiversity economy, and biodiversity conservation and sustainable use in general.

The aim of the BEII was to enhance the conversation on the NBES and its contribution to addressing poverty, unemployment, and inequality. It also aimed to promote multi-stakeholder commitment to strengthening the biodiversity economy sector and enriching the dialogue among industry players around the goals of the White Paper on Conservation and Sustainable Use of South Africa's Biodiversity (the White Paper 2023). The Indaba promoted cooperative governance and whole of society approach for effective policy implementation and business-to-business trading, networking, and sustainable partnerships and showcasing market-ready biodiversity products and services from across the biodiversity economy value chains through exhibitions.

Consistent with the policy context of the White Paper, the revised NBES is founded on the key pillars of conservation, sustainable use, beneficiation of biodiversity business value chains, and transformation. These pillars promote sustainable and inclusive socio-economic growth and development. This requires growing and sustaining conservation land and seascapes while promoting and facilitating inclusive biodiversity-based businesses that drive the transformation of the biodiversity sector.

South Africa’s approach to biodiversity is holistic, recognizing the benefits that intact ecosystems, healthy species populations, and genetic diversity bring to the economy and society for people and nature to thrive. The country promotes a diverse biodiversity-based economy, balancing ecological, social, and economic elements. This is not about exploiting natural resources for short-term gains but ensuring healthy ecosystems and long-term survival of species, inclusive growth where benefits are shared equitably and people live in harmony with nature.

The NBES, informed by the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the White Paper, expands on previous strategies to include marine, coastal, estuarine, and freshwater opportunities. Another vital part of the strategy is ecosystem restoration and the recognition of the importance of ecological infrastructure ensuring that both nature and people can thrive sustainably.

Transformation is a crucial theme in the NBES, aiming to include rural communities and previously disadvantaged individuals in the biodiversity economy for rural socio-economic development. Successful examples of biodiversity transformation like the Tshivhula Communal Property Association (CPA), the Makuleke in the Limpopo section of the Kruger National Park, and Babanango in KwaZulu Natal Province showcase how land restitution can lead to socio-economic benefits. These projects demonstrate the potential for community-owned land to be used for conservation businesses while promoting sustainable rural development.

The story of Tshivhula Game Farm-Ndou Safaris in Limpopo is a testament to the positive impact of such initiatives. With 20,000 hectares of land restored to the Tshivhula community, the farm has become a model of biodiversity stewardship, focusing on hunting and ecotourism. Basic infrastructure and capacity support from, national and provincial governments, and public entities like South African National Parks (SANParks)  and further investment from private partners has been crucial to this success.

The DFFE's efforts to invite various media houses to witness the success of the Tshivhula Game Farm-Ndou Safaris illustrate the department’s success in transforming the sector. The media group that attended the BEII Post-Indaba Media Excursion at the facility was able to engage with the CPA, the private partner, employees at Tshivhula Game Farm-Ndou Safaris, SANParks officials, Limpopo Land Claims Commissioner officials, and DFFE officials. The excursion concluded with a visit to Mapungubwe National Park which is also a World Heritage Site and part of the Transfrontier Conservation Area shared with Zimbabwe and Botswana, where the media group had another opportunity to engage with officials during the game drive and a tour of the museum.

As South Africa continues its journey under the 7th administration, the revised NBES provides a framework for growth and transformation in the biodiversity sector. By balancing conservation with sustainable use and ensuring inclusive socio-economic development, South Africa is demonstrating how natural resources can be used responsibly and in a manner that benefits all citizens and grow the economy.

*Mohlago Flora Mokgohloa is the Deputy Director-General: Biodiversity and Conservation at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

Matona
Thu, 06/27/2024 - 13:03

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PRASA makes steady progress in returning passenger trains

Location: News

PRASA makes steady progress in returning passenger trains

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) is making steady and significant progress in getting passenger trains back on track with 31 of the 40 rail corridors now operational, says Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Hishaam Emeran.

Addressing the Africa Rail 2024 Conference taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre, Emeran said PRASA has recovered almost 80% of passenger rail corridors after widespread theft and vandalism destroyed the country’s passenger rail system during the COVID-19 lockdown.

“The resuscitation of the 31 corridors translates into the steady return of rail passengers. We are not where we need to be yet, but we are seeing significant progress. A year back, we had 15 million passengers and by the end of March this year, we reached 40million passengers. That’s nearly a 200% increase,” he said on Thursday.

PRASA has invested more than R12 billion in capital projects, creating some 4 500 jobs.

“Over the past 24 months, PRASA has achieved major milestones, and we can see a significant improvement; you can see a turnaround within the rail space in South Africa. That has been possible, in large part, to PRASA’s ability to execute on our capital programme.

“Over the last two years, PRASA has made a significant injection into the economy of our country. It has invested more than R30-billion over the last two years in projects, rolling stock manufacturing and other organisation elements within the rail space. That is a direct injection into the economy, which does not even take into account the knock-on effect of our investment,” Emeran said.

He said PRASA’s turnaround strategy – which has focused on corridor rebuilding, modernisation and safety – has yielded positive results for rail passengers and the country’s economy.

“The modernisation of the rail system is reaping rewards. It is creating jobs and revitalising an essential commuter artery. It is also boosting the manufacturing sector with the building of the new ‘people’s train’ taking place in Gauteng’s East Rand.

“Those trains are manufactured by Gibela and built here in South Africa by young men and women who are engineers, technicians, welders and so on. We have ensured that about 65% of the parts that go into that train are local content,” Emeran said.

With the production of 600 trains for PRASA at the Gibela factory, the agency is spearheading efforts to establish South Africa as the train manufacturing hub for the entire African continent, fully supporting the African Union's vision for South Africa to lead in this critical industry.

“Together with our sister company, Transnet, and our manufacturing company, Gibela, we are spearheading these opportunities for rail as part of the country’s broader economic recovery programme,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 06/27/2024 - 13:37

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Read morePRASA makes steady progress in returning passenger trains