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Balance Required to Ensure Sustainability of Regular Force Medical Continuation Fund

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Joint Standing Committee on Defence has called on current South African National Defence Force members to reconsider their resistance to the increase in their contributions to ensure that the Regular Force Medical Continuation Fund (RFMCF) remains viable and sustainable. The committee is concerned that the sustained low contribution model will have dire consequences for members when they retire. The envisioned balance will ensure quality medical services upon retirement.

“While the committee acknowledges that the RFMCF is a private entity, it is important to ensure the viability of the fund because it ensures the wellbeing of members after retirement. The welfare of our members, active or retired, is important,” said Mr Cyril Xaba, the co-Chairperson of the committee.

While the committee welcomed the fund's improved financial management and governance, it emphasised that its funding model should be reconsidered in the light of the cost of healthcare, which is above inflation in most cases.

The committee also highlighted the consequences of weaknesses within the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS), which directly impacts on the fund's viability and which has resulted in the increased use of the private sector. A functional SAMHS should be providing quality healthcare to all its members, both active and retired. “We have been emphatic about the need to resolve challenges facing the SAMHS to ensure that it is enabled to provide adequate support to all members and also save the fiscus excessively high private medical costs,” said Mr Mamagase Nchabeleng, the co-Chairperson of the committee.

Meanwhile, the committee unanimously supported the President's decision to deploy 3 300 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members for service in cooperation with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to combat crime and maintain and preserve law and order under Operation Prosper. The SANDF deployment is part of the security cluster's efforts to address the prevailing high level of brazen organised crime and illicit mining.

While the committee supports the deployment, it is concerned that the unfunded mandate will have an impact on the Department of Defence's baseline budget, especially in light of further budget cuts. Despite this, the committee acknowledged that illegal mining is a serious challenge and requires the active participation of all to defeat it.

The committee further highlighted that the SANDF deployment is a short-term solution and that broader solutions must be developed to deal with this crime.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read moreBalance Required to Ensure Sustainability of Regular Force Medical Continuation Fund

Police Committee Welcomes Drop in Some Crimes but Urges Police to Intensify Crime Fighting Efforts

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Police has welcomed the second quarter crime statistics showing a reduction in various crimes, including murder, sexual offences and carjacking. 

The committee on Friday received a presentation on crime statistics for the last quarter (July to September) from the Ministry of Police and Senior Management of the South African Police Service. Compared to the same period in the last financial year, the statistics, among others, show that there has been a 0.8% drop in murders and reductions of 1.5% in sexual offences, 2.3% in carjacking, and 7.3% in robberies at non-residential premises.

The committee notes that while in some cases the reduction is minimal, continued efforts will lead to sustained reduction. The committee also called on the police to continue efforts aimed at rooting out perpetrators of these crimes.

Despite these decreases, the committee raised concern over the sharp increase in attempted murder, showing an increase of 12.3% and assault with the intent to inflict grievous bodily harm that has recorded an increase of 1 046 cases in the quarter under review. 

The committee further highlighted concerns over the increase in cash-in-transit robberies, which has recorded eight more incidents compared to the same period in the last financial year. The committee has called for collaboration with cash-in-transit companies to devise strategies to curb these incidents. Although the committee appreciated SAPS' efforts in dealing with this, it emphasised the need for enhanced intelligence-led policing to deal with this crime. 

Meanwhile, the committee remains concerned by rape incidents reported in educational institutions and has called for collaboration between SAPS and the management of these institutions to protect women and children. The committee has also called for enhanced partnerships with taxi associations and e-hailing services companies to address the emerging trend of rape while using these services. 

The committee has resolved that it will be important to engage with provincial SAPS Commissioners and station level commanders to assess strategies being implemented to address crime. This, according to the committee, will enable members to have a granular understanding of challenges and areas of best practice.

The committee reiterated its call for community-wide collaboration in the fight against crime. “The trust deficit between the community and SAPS must be urgently addressed to ensure that communities act as the eyes and ears of the SAPS and criminality can be reported speedily,” said Mr Nocks Seabi, the committee Chairperson. 

Notwithstanding the need for community collaboration, the committee has condemned those resorting to mob justice as it creates more problems and expressed concern over the 428 murders, 63 attempted murders and 369 assaults with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm relating to mob justice that have been recorded.

The murder of police officers also remains a concern for the committee. The statistics show that 35 police officers were killed in the quarter under review and the committee has called for improved strategies to bring an end to this. 

The committee will schedule a session where it intends to engage further on these crime statistics and broaden engagement to include provincial and station-level management of hotspot areas.      

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read morePolice Committee Welcomes Drop in Some Crimes but Urges Police to Intensify Crime Fighting Efforts

KZN Premier attributes employment increase to concerted efforts

Location: News

KZN Premier attributes employment increase to concerted efforts

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has attributed the marked increase in employment figures and the fall of the unemployment rate in the province to government’s targeted interventions, practical programmes and meaningful collaboration.

This follows Statistics South Africa’s (StatsSA) latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) data, which showed a significant improvement in employment numbers in the province.
 
According to the QLFS findings for the third quarter, KwaZulu-Natal recorded the largest employment increase, while the unemployment rate has fallen by 1.6% in the third quarter of 2023.

According to the survey, the number of employed persons increased in eight provinces between quarter two and three in 2023. Large employment increases were recorded in KwaZulu-Natal (up by 152 000), Limpopo, North West and Mpumalanga.

Dube-Ncube said the data provides valuable insights into the current state of the labour market in the country, and is a welcome development on Quarter 2 of 2023 in which the province also recorded growth.

“This is good news and the fruit of efforts of the entire provincial government working with business and other social partners to address unemployment. We remain committed to working together with labour, business and the local and international investment community to drive economic growth which is necessary to address unemployment and poverty,” Dube-Ncube said.
 
Dube-Ncube pointed to the S’thesha Waya-Waya stimulus initiative as just one of the programmes rolled out to create jobs through various entities of the state.

She said youth unemployment continues to be a concern, and the province will continue to address this issue, through targeted programs and policies that empower young people with skills and opportunities needed to enter the workforce. 

“This includes the disbursement of the Youth Empowerment Fund through which we allocate R90 million to youth-owned entities. Another R100 million window of this fund will open soon to benefit more youth-owned entities.

“We recently launched our Planting Season and through Operation Vula, we are opening economic opportunities to youth, women, military veterans and those with disabilities to take part in the economy.”

The Premier also highlighted that through public private partnerships, the provincial government has been able to create opportunities in various sectors, including maritime and aviation sectors.

“Further, our drive is to penetrate the digital economy through the Broadband Rollout in the province. The 4IR Commission is fast tracking the Provincial Connected Smart Province plan which aims to create more jobs for young people in the digital space.

“We see the Quarterly Labour Survey as a reliable indicator to understand the dynamics of the labour market. We will continue to engage with StatsSA, labour, business and stakeholders especially the private sector to continue to contribute to initiatives aimed at improving employment prospects for all South Africans,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 11/17/2023 - 11:01

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Policing strategies guide to reduced crime: Cele

Location: News

Policing strategies lead to reduced crime: Cele

Police Minister Bheki Cele says the combination of operational policing strategies and interventions has attributed to the decline in crime statistics recorded in the country.

Cele made the remarks at the release of the Crime Stats Quarter 2 of 2023/2024, which showed that South Africa has, for the second consecutive quarter, seen a decrease in the murder rate, with a 3.1% decline recorded between May and July, and a 0.8% drop in the number of people killed between July and September 2023.

The report also noted a decrease in crimes that instill fear amongst people in the country, including trio crimes (hijackings, business and property robberies).

Cele said the drop in the murder rate is reflective of the SAPS’s continued efforts to combat crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement.

“Over and above ongoing policing operations, we know this administration has gone to lengths in capacitating critical units of the police service in order to keep communities safer. This includes the overhauling and strengthening of the management of the Crime Intelligence division, drastically improving the crime detection capabilities of the police.

“Crime Intelligence capacity has also been strengthened at the top 30 crime heavy police stations. The Intelligence officers have also been supplied with adequate resources, including vehicles and other tools of trade to gather intelligence,” Cele said.

The Minister said the South African Police Service (SAPS) units responsible for the investigation of organised crimes have also been bolstered at both provincial and national levels to infiltrate criminal syndicates.

"The recruitment drive of thousands more police officers under Project 10 000 to boost police numbers at stations in all provinces continues to gain momentum. The decrease in murder figures shows that the targeting of crimes in hotspots must be maintained and further strengthened,” Cele said.

Cele noted that through the intensified national policing approach to prevent and combat crime during the high-density Operation Shanela, the department is starting to break even and seeing decreases in certain crime categories.

According to the statistics, Operation Shanela, which is in its sixth month running has resulted in the arrest of over 226 000 suspects, including some of the most wanted and dangerous criminals. 

Cele said the tracking and tracing of wanted suspects has also been prioritised in conjunction with everyday policing at station level.

Despite the overall drop in the country’s murder rate, the report showed that between July and September this year, 6 945 people were murdered in South Africa, including 881 women and 293 children.

Thirty-five police officers were also killed on and off duty in the same period, as well as 19 law enforcement officers attached to national, provincial and local government, and private security.

Cele said the majority of people killed in South Africa are murdered during arguments, misunderstandings and provocations that usually take place at social settings.

“Arguments, vigilantism and robbery remain the top three causative factors for murder in the majority of the provinces. Firearms, knives and sharp instruments are likely to be used as murder weapons. 

“Firearms alone claimed the lives of 3 106 victims. Police have, between July to September 2023, removed 2 175 firearms off the streets through police operations,” Cele said.

Cele said these statistics give police a sober analysis of the effectiveness of policing efforts to keep South Africans and their properties safe. 

“These numbers are also used to redirect resources to where they are needed most in order to better respond to the common enemy of crime. This redirection of resources is clearly demonstrated through the decline in certain crime categories in the top four crime heavy provinces, namely KZN, Western Cape, Gauteng and Eastern Cape.

“These provinces have collectively reduced many of their contact crimes, including trio crimes, robberies, sexual assault and assault during this reporting period. What is clear and should never be ignored is that the crime figures should and must serve as a call of action for government, business, NGOs, civil society and communities to come on board in the fight against crime,” Cele said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Fri, 11/17/2023 - 13:45

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Collaboration imperative in eliminating child labour: Nxesi

Location: News

Collaboration imperative in eliminating child labour: Nxesi

Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi says it is imperative to acknowledge the gravity of the scourge of child labour, and recognise the collective duty to strengthen the prevention and elimination of child labour in agriculture.

“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,” the Minister said. 

Nxesi was delivering the keynote address at the Prevention and Elimination of Child Labour in South Africa launch event in Sandton, Johannesburg.

The Department of Employment and Labour, in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), launched a European Union-funded child labour project that seeks to strengthen the prevention and elimination of child labour in the agricultural sector in South Africa.

To tackle this grave issue, Nxesi said the world must first understand its root causes. He cited poverty, lack of access to education, and limited awareness about child rights as creating an environment where child labour thrives.

Nxesi said the Durban Call to Action adopted at the 5th Global Conference last year in Durban, resonates with this approach, in that it commits different role players to take immediate and effective measures to eliminate child labour.

“Education lies at the heart of this endeavour. We must invest in educational opportunities for all children, irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds. By ensuring that every child has access to quality education, we empower them with the knowledge and skills necessary to break the cycle of poverty and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said. 

Simultaneously, the Minister said enforcing existing laws and regulations is paramount. He said that stringent penalties for those exploiting children for labour, coupled with rigorous monitoring mechanisms, will serve as a deterrent to potential offenders. 

Moreover, he said, support systems must be put in place to rehabilitate and reintegrate children who have been rescued from child labour situations, ensuring they receive the care, counselling, and education necessary for their holistic rehabilitation and development.

“Additionally, we must raise awareness about child rights and labour laws within farming communities. Educating parents, guardians, and employers about the detrimental effects of child labour, and the legal consequences associated with it, can act as a powerful deterrent.

“What remains constant in all these endeavours is that collaboration between government, employers' and workers' organisations, civil society, and international agencies is crucial for sharing resources, expertise, and best practices, leading to more effective and sustainable interventions,” he said. 

Nxesi told delegates at the launch that together, they possess the strength, knowledge, and determination needed to create a world where no child is robbed of their innocence, their education, or their dreams. 

“In our quest to eradicate child labour, collaboration is not merely a choice; it is an imperative. No single entity, whether it is governments, NGOs, businesses, workers or communities, can tackle this issue in isolation. We need to join hands, share expertise, and combine resources to create a formidable force against child labour,” he said. 

The Minister said they are thankful to the European Union (EU) for approving the funding of this project, and to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) for its continued support in their endeavours to fight the scourge of child labour. 

The Minister said that the project launched today will be piloted in two provinces, that is, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape.

He urged all stakeholders to continue to collaborate, to innovate, and to advocate, ensuring that every child can grow up in a safe, nurturing environment – free from the shackles of child labour.

“Together, we can create a supportive environment where families are lifted out of poverty, children are educated, and communities thrive. Businesses, too, have a crucial role to play by adopting ethical supply chain practices, ensuring that the products we consume are not tainted with the sweat and tears of innocent children,” he said. 

The Minister concluded that the fight against child labour in the agricultural sector is a moral imperative that demands an unwavering commitment. 

“We look forward to the replication of these pilot projects across the country as a whole, and the eventual elimination of child labour in the agricultural sector – and beyond. 

“Let us stand united in our resolve to strengthen the prevention and elimination of child labour. Let us be the voice for those who are silenced, the advocates for those who are vulnerable, and the champions for those who deserve a brighter future,”  Nxesi said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/17/2023 - 14:37

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Violence against women must be confronted head on

Location: News

Violence against women must be confronted head on

The scourge of violence against women and children in South Africa must be confronted head on equally by law enforcement, government and society.

This is according to Police Minister, General Bheki Cele, who released the crime statistics for the second quarter of 2023/2024 on Friday.

The report showed that contact sexual offences declined by 35.9%, with 10 516 rape cases reported and investigated by police in July to September 2023.

While the statistics showed that less women and children were killed in South Africa, between July to September 2023 (decreasing by 10.9% and 7.0% respectively), Cele said the crime figures show that far too many women and children in the country are not safe around people that they know and trust, and at times those that they love and in the places where they are supposed to be safe.

According to the figures, 4 726 rape incidents took place at either the home of the rape victim, or the home of the perpetrator which are known to the victim, such as a family member, a friend or a neighbour.

The report showed that between July and September 2023, 1 514 incidents of attempted murder, involving female victims were reported. Furthermore, females were victims in 14 401 assault grievous bodily harm (GBH) incidents reported to the police during the reporting period.

Children have not been spared from the brutal attacks and abuse, with 293 children killed between July to September 2023. In the same period, 361 incidents of attempted murder and 1 820 of assault GBH were perpetrated against children.

Cele said it was clear that the attacks and violence meted on women, children, the elderly and the most vulnerable in this country remained shameful.

“The Police Ministry has noted with extreme concern the recent brutal stabbing of a Western Cape University female student, in broad daylight. The SAPS continues to upscale its responses to this form of crimes through increased operations to trace GBV perpetrators, arrest serial offenders as well as serial rapists.

“Our docket analysis shows that the arrest of serial sexual offenders is reducing incidents of sexual offences. The SAPS continues to collaborate with social partners to eradicate the scourge of GBVF and educate communities on the matter,” Cele said.

He said the Ministry is motivated by the police continued successes in bringing to book Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) perpetrators.

Among the success include the recent identification and takedown of 27 sexual predators in the country, and the recent sentencing of Mario Giusti to 6 400 years in jail, after being found guilty of more than 1 000 charges of child pornography.

As part of some of the crime prevention programs carried out by the police service, Cele said, dialogues in various communities targeting men, who are largely GBV perpetrators, are taking place.

He said the Ministry was motivated by the continued availability of evidence collection kits or so called rape kits; as well as the improvement of support services at stations for survivors of sexual violence.

“The historic DNA backlog which was standing at over 240 000 two years ago has now been cleared. SAPS forensic laboratories across the country continue to work optimally and relevant contracts crucial for the functioning of labs are in place. The consumables essential for the processing of samples continue to be procured.

“These policy interventions are coupled with functioning of GBV desks at police stations countrywide. These desks are staffed with officers trained in GBVF-related courses as well as victim empowerment, domestic violence and sexual offences related programs,” Cele said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 11/17/2023 - 14:37

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UKM Foods – Excellence in Food Manufacturing

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, South Africa – UKM Foods, a leader in the South African food manufacturing sector, is proudly announcing its continued commitment to culinary excellence and innovation. Nestled in the bustling heart of Sandton, Johannesburg, UKM Foods has become synonymous with quality, offering a diverse array of food products that include powdered juices, coffee creamer, full …

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Stakeholders say transformative industrialisation is critical for Africa’s sustainable development

Location: News

United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA)
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Some stakeholders have reiterated the need for transformative industrialisation, saying it is critical for sustainable development on the continent.

They have been speaking at a special event, "Leveraging on strategic foresight for an agile, robust, and forward-looking sustainable industrial development in Africa", on Thursday at the African Economic Conference (AEC) in Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia.

Fiona Tregenna a Professor at the University of Johannesburg, and Chair of the Industrial Development National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa, delivered a paper on Transformative Industrialisation for Africa (TIFA) and links with strategic foresight. She highlighted some of the challenges that have hindered industrialisation on the continent.

According to Tregenna, achieving the Africa we want is not business as usual, otherwise we will not get the transformative change to give us the Africa we want.

She added: "A strategic and systemic approach is critical for a sustainable Africa. We are not looking at interventions that will yield today, but long-term investments."

Mr Ibrahima Sall, former Minister of Planning in Senegal, said engagement with various relevant stakeholders was required for sustainable industrial development in Africa.

"We need a flexible, agile, high-impact industrialisation that is robust. Even in the professor's introduction, it is clear that there are some industrial processes, and we need to keep the strength going. We know how to implement industrial policies, no policy cannot be selective. Otherwise, we will be sprinkling without impacting or wasting capital. So, there must be a selective national champion. How do we build with major stakeholders? What matters most is to look at selectivity and information and inform the states to understand that policies are not made on the ground. The engagement of states is key, and they must pay attention to the industrial sector," Sall said.

He added that selective criteria are critical. The vertical policy of African nations entails focusing on processing raw materials. And we have horizontal and selective, which involve all actions: sustainability, infrastructure, human capital, and technology. With this, states do not need to be flexible but focus on sustainability.

Speaking on Malawi's strategy, Thomas Munthali, Director General at the country's National Planning Commission, said that knowing that the effects of climate change were gradually destroying the country, it embarked on climate-resilient infrastructure and appreciated the future of industrialisation.

Munthali urged countries on the continent to venture more into digitisation, engage the private sector to catalyse investments, experiment, and learn from successful nations. He said, "We should be learning from nations. We should try and fail, but never fail to try."

For her part, Hauwa Ibrahim of the Nasarawa State University in Nigeria, said Africa stood at the crossroads of opportunities and challenges.

Ibrahim added that, "While we know there are no perfect policies, those with rooted outcomes stand the test of time. There is a need for research and development on the continent to ensure a sustainable Africa. The demographic population is vital and should be considered because we have many young people and what they are learning now should matter to us. We need to recognise the role of technology and ensure it is applied at all levels. We cannot take out the role of education in defining technology because we do not want to industrialise and have to invest elsewhere, away from the continent, in certain labour forces. Therefore, while we invest in technology, we must also invest in the education of young people."

Earlier, Karima Ben Soltane, the Director of the United Nations African Institute for Economic Development and Planning (IDEP), ECA, while moderating the session, said the theme was focused on what African countries needed to enact their policies, implement the SDGs, and make strategic investments, among others.

"What are the key drivers of change in the workforce landscape? We are cognizant that tomorrow's jobs do not exist today. And we need to ensure ways of bringing up initiatives and effectively preparing governments, individuals, institutions, and industries for these changes,” Ben Soltane added.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

Read moreStakeholders say transformative industrialisation is critical for Africa’s sustainable development

Redefining the Season: #GivingTuesdaySA Inspires Generosity Beyond Black Friday’s Shopping Spree

Location: MyPR

Following the excitement of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday emerges as a beacon of goodwill, marking the commencement of the charitable season when hearts turn towards holiday and end-of-year giving. Join millions around the world on November 28, 2023, as GivingTuesday becomes a day to fuel a global celebration of generosity. GivingTuesdaySA Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bin1o5mFM8 …

Read moreRedefining the Season: #GivingTuesdaySA Inspires Generosity Beyond Black Friday’s Shopping Spree

How to: Easy steps to register to vote online

Location: News

How to: Easy steps to register to vote online

As voter registrations get underway in earnest ahead of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, the Independent Electoral Commission has made it easier than ever to register to vote using their website.

The IEC’s website is a one-stop voter information portal.

Voters can use this portal to register to vote, view or update their current voter address, find their voting station, request a special vote, or simply browse for important information such as upcoming election dates in their ward.

You can register to vote by following these easy steps:

  1. Get your SA ID card/book ready and go to the link registertovote.elections.org.za.
  2. Enter your personal information: ID number, name and surname, and mobile number. The Chief Electoral Officer must compile and maintain a national common voters' roll. The personal information required is for purposes of achieving this legal requirement and will not be used for any other purpose as required by the Protection of Personal Information Act, No. 4 of 2013.
  3. A one-time pin (OTP) will be sent to your cellphone number. Insert the pin and click on “confirm pin”.
  4. Capture your home address. You can type your address and select from the list or enter your address and click the search button.
  5. Review and acknowledge your information in the voter registration summary. This page will also tell you your ward and voting district.
  6. Tick the declaration box and then click on ID verification.
  7. Take a photo or upload a scan of your SA ID and click on continue.
  8. Your voter registration application has been submitted successfully. The IEC will verify the application and will notify you once it has been processed. You will receive an sms notification.

To submit an application to register to vote, you must meet the following requirements:

  • be a South Africa citizen;
  • be at least 16 years (you can only vote from age 18).

What you need to upload when using online voter registration:

  • green barcoded ID book
  • smart ID card,
  • temporary ID certificate (TIC)

You are only registered to vote once you have received a receipt via SMS or email, or have confirmed that you are registered.

Since the Commission launched the online registration portal in July 2021, a total of 1.1 million registration transactions have been recorded.

The portal has experienced a hive of activity this year with 52% of all transactions being recorded in the eleven months of the year. New registrations amount to 40.6% of total online registration activity. Women are the majority users of the online portal at 56%. Young persons under the age of 29 indicate a strong usage level at 49.6%.

Voter registration weekend

Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs will be extending its operating hours for the voter registration weekend on 18 and 19 November 2023, to provide ID services and related support to eligible voters.

Operating hours will be aligned with those of the IEC, starting from 08:00 to 17:00, and the main service to be offered is ID collection and application.

Temporary Identification Certificates will be issued on the spot to those who have lost or misplaced their IDs.

Electoral Commission Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo has called on all adult South Africans to seize the moment by registering as voters this coming weekend.

“Only those who are on the voters’ roll can have a say in the electoral outcomes next year,” Mamabolo said at a briefing on Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Janine
Fri, 11/17/2023 - 11:04

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Country Road unveils its current store in V&A Waterfront, targeting a Green Star rating

Location: MyPR

Country Road opens the doors to its new V&A Waterfront store, on 10 November. The store is targeting a 5-Star Green Star interior certification from the Green Building Council of South Africa, as the newly designed space is set to reimagine the luxury retail experience. If awarded, this prestigious rating showcases South African excellence in …

Read moreCountry Road unveils its current store in V&A Waterfront, targeting a Green Star rating

The Case for an Industrial Revolution in Africa: Can South Africa’s Re-industrialisation be the spark?

Location: MyPR

Paul Terna Gbahabo is a research consultant and a PhD graduate in Development Finance at Stellenbosch Business School. Africa, a continent of immense potential, stands at a critical juncture. The call for an industrial revolution is not merely a suggestion but an economic imperative. Africa desperately needs an industrial revolution. Though daunting, it is not …

Read moreThe Case for an Industrial Revolution in Africa: Can South Africa’s Re-industrialisation be the spark?

Initiative seeks to combat alien species

Location: News

Initiative seeks to combat alien species

Government has launched a five-year programme worth R2.67 billion to implement the Working for Water Programme, which aims to eradicate invasive alien plants in communities.

Addressing the launch of the Gauteng Working for Water Environmental Programme in Heidelberg, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy said over the next five years the department aims to create 38 839 work opportunities every year primarily in rural communities.

"Biological invasions by alien plants is a major threat to biodiversity and ecosystem services, water resources and sustainable livelihoods. Invasive species exacerbate floods, droughts and wildfires, and have negative impacts for the forestry and agriculture sectors.

“In short, biological invasions will exacerbate the effects of context of climate change and the extreme weather events associated with global warming. It is for this reason our department is happy today to announce this five-year programme to combat alien species and the damage they do to our land, wetlands and rivers,” Creecy said on Friday.

The South African National Biodiversity Institute’s (SANBI) 2019 Report on Biological Invasions details the impact of invasive species on South Africa’s biodiversity and economy.

Invasive trees use 3-5% of South Africa’s runoff water every year, which is a significant loss for a water-scarce country.

"Many species of invasive plants are also less drought-resistant than indigenous ones and pose a greater fire risk. By displacing indigenous species and creating single species plantations, alien invasive also undermine our country’s rich biodiversity, which in turn negatively impacts our tourism potential.

“Invasive species also interfere in natural processes that can help mitigate the effects of natural disasters through the provision of ecosystem services, examples being the role estuaries, wetlands and indigenous forests play during natural disasters such as cyclones and floods.

“Thus, by clearing waterways and managing the spread of invasive species we are restoring natural habitats and simultaneously restoring ecosystem services that will assist us in the fight against the effects of climate change,” the Minister said.

To ensure sustainable clearing of alien species on a regular basis as well as sustained public employment, the department has made its contracting over a longer five-year period, as opposed to short-term contracts in the previous cycle.

For local small enterprises in rural communities, this also offers a reliable revenue that can assist the enterprises to invest their businesses to ensure future opportunities.

“This means that the Working for Water Programme is growing and is advancing the inclusion of previously disadvantaged enterprises to participate more meaningfully in the value chain of clearing invasive alien species. In this way the Working for Water Programme advances transformation and prioritises the inclusive economy policies of government,” the Minister said.

The department has committed R2.67 billion to clear hectares while creating 194 195 work opportunities over a five-year period.

“Today marks the launch of the Gauteng Working for Water Programme to the value of R152 million to implement projects across the five Gauteng municipalities namely, the City of Tshwane, City of Joburg, West Rand, Sedibeng, and the City of Ekurhuleni.

“In Gauteng, the Working for Water Programme will clear 74 781 hectares over a period of five years, starting from 2023/2024. During this five year period, we are aiming to create 13 615 work opportunities through the EPWP model,” the Minister said.

The department also collaborates with the South African National Parks (SANParks) to implement the Working for Water Programme. 

SANParks has been allocated R 947 710 million to create 90 710 work opportunities through clearing 431 237 hectares over a five year period. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 11/17/2023 - 11:19

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South Africa condemns Israeli bombardment near Jordanian field hospital in Gaza

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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South Africa joins the international community in expressing its serious concern following the Israeli bombing near the Jordanian field hospital in Gaza on 15 November 2023, which left several hospital staff members wounded as they attempted to treat Palestinian citizens injured by Israel's bombardment.

South Africa is gravely concerned at the continuous targeting of medical facilities, schools and holy sites that are a source of shelter and protection for the civilian population who bear the brunt of the inhumane attacks in the Gaza Strip.

Among the thousands of civilian victims of the Israeli siege of Gaza is Mr Ahmed Abbasi, head of the Gift of the Givers Foundation office in Gaza, who was targeted by the Israel Defence Force (IDF) whilst returning from morning prayer today, 16 November 2023. Mr Abbasi was killed alongside his brother. South Africa is outraged at the killing of civilians and aid workers.

South Africa continues to maintain that there is no legal, ethical or moral justification for the bombardment of non-combatants and destruction of civilian sites.

Israel, as the occupying power, has a duty to protect civilians in Gaza. It is cruel to endanger the lives of Palestinians who have sought refuge from intense bombardment and gun battles.

According to international humanitarian law (IHL), in particular, the Fourth Geneva Convention, health establishments and units, including hospitals, should not be attacked. This protection extends to the wounded and sick as well as to medical staff and emergency vehicles.

All those responsible for the bombardment of non-combatants, medical facilities and other civilian sites must be held accountable for war crimes and crimes against humanity. In the case of the deaths of civilians in Gaza and increasingly now in the West Bank, the crime of genocide must also be investigated.

South Africa echoes the United Nations General Assembly's resolution that has called for an immediate ceasefire and the immediate opening of humanitarian corridors to allow the provision of food, medical supplies and fuel.

South Africa reiterated its calls on the United Nations to deploy a rapid protection force to protect the civilian population from further bombardment.

South Africa calls for enhanced peace efforts aimed at reviving a political process, leading to the establishment of a viable Palestinian state, existing side by side in peace with Israel within internationally recognised borders, based on those existing on 4 June 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in compliance with all relevant UN Resolutions, international law and internationally agreed parameters.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Read moreSouth Africa condemns Israeli bombardment near Jordanian field hospital in Gaza

Elevate your holiday gift-giving experience with Boschendal’s expanded hamper collection

Location: MyPR

Cape Town, South Africa – Boschendal is adding a spark of festive season magic to end of year gifting with its extended range of stunning gift hampers. Featuring a selection of handcrafted, locally sourced, and sustainably produced gifts and the best of the iconic farm’s produce, the new hamper range is perfect for joyous celebration …

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PRASA initiative offers commuters fare discounts

Location: News

PRASA initiative offers commuters fare discounts

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has introduced the #TravelOffPeak campaign, an initiative aimed at promoting travel during off-peak by providing attractive fare discounts to commuters.

“Recognising the importance of promoting reliable transit not only during the weekday rush hours but off-peak too, PRASA is pleased to offer various off-peak discounts across all its operational routes starting from 13 November 2023.”

PRASA GCEO Hishaam Emeran explained that the initiative is part of the organisation’s commitment to encourage the public to use Metrorail services not only during peak hours but also during off-peak periods.

"This is a significant step towards enhancing the commuter experience and saving commuters money by paying lower fares. By choosing to travel during off-peak, commuters will not only enjoy a quieter and relaxed journey but contribute to a more evenly distributed and efficient use of our transportation infrastructure," Emeran said.

Fares are discounted as follows:

  • Pensioners: 50% discount during off-peak.
  • General public/commuters: 40% discount during off-peak.
  • Scholars in uniform: 50% anytime of the day.
  • Bulk purchase: 10% discount on bulk buying.
  • Events or promotions (schools or groups): 50% discount for groups travelling together.

These off-peak discounts are applicable between 09h30 and 14h30 weekdays, and during weekends and public holidays.

“PRASA wishes to remind commuters to check their eligibility for discounted fares ahead of their journey. All tickets will be valid on the day of purchase and at off-peak hours.

“It is crucial to note that these tickets should not be used during peak hours, except for scholars in school uniforms, whose tickets remain valid for the entire day.

“PRASA invites commuters to #TravelOffPeak and save while enjoying a more comfortable and cost-effective travel experience to their various destinations,” the agency said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Thu, 11/16/2023 - 10:24

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Read morePRASA initiative offers commuters fare discounts

Add a touch of Boschendal magic to your end-of-year celebrations

Location: MyPR

Cape Town, South Africa – End the year on a high note with Boschendal’s corporate year-end offerings and celebrate your team at one of South Africa’s most iconic farms. With a couple of year-end functions to choose from, stunning accommodation options, and a newly expanded selection of corporate gift hampers, everyone can enjoy an authentic …

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