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MEDIA INVITE 13 November 2023 RE: A BID TO IMPROVE SKILLS DEVELOPMENT IN THE AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) with Productivity SA and six other organisations for the implementation of a training programme called the Quality and Productivity Improvement …
Mahlobo calls for fast-tracked service delivery for communities
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo says the recently released South African National Census statistics must be used as a guide to speed up the provision of services to meet the increasing needs of communities.
Mahlobo was speaking during the District Development Model (DDM) Social Compact Imbizo held at the Multi-Purpose Centre in Phuthaditjhaba in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality on Friday.
The Deputy Minister joined his counterparts from the Presidency, Pinky Kekana and Nomasonto Motaung (a DDM champion in the district); Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana, and Thabo Mofutsanyaba District Executive Mayor Connie Msibi amongst other dignitaries from the provincial and local government in the Free State.
“Statistics South Africa says we have provided more than 90% of the population with water. While we can say we have made strides in this regard, we know that we have not reached everyone as we should and we need to reach out to them as well, because it is our mandate and it is their constitutional right to be supplied with water,” Mahlobo said, adding that this was “envisioned by the founders of the country’s democracy”.
To help to make this happen, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is assisting municipalities to build new infrastructure, refurbish and upgrade the existing ones to meet the demand for water, while reducing water loses because of ageing infrastructure.
The department, through its Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) and Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) programme, provides funds to municipalities for water infrastructure.
“In Maluti-A-Phofung, we have intervened when there were water challenges through our RBIG programme and allocated R176 million in the 2022/23 financial year and R154 million this financial year for water projects.
“Further to this, through our WSIG programme, we have allocated R127 million from 2022/23 until 2024/25 for drilling of boreholes in Intabazwe, Mokgolokweng sewer pump stations and Mokgolokweng bulk and sewer networks,” Mahlobo said.
He announced that for the first time, the communities of Maluti-A-Phofung finally receive water from Sterkfontein Dam, something that seemed like a “pipe dream”.
The communities in the area will benefit from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project once it is completed.
Outlining the ongoing work in intervening in Maluti-A-Phofung, Mahlobo highlighted the following projects:
• Upgrading of Sterkfontein Water Treatment Works.
• Refurbishment and Upgrading of the Fika Patso Water Purification Plant.
• Upgrading of the Intabazwe Rising Main.
• Bulk water supply to Tshiamo & Makgolokweng.
• Upgrading of the supply to Phuthaditjhaba & CBD area.
• Refurbishment of the Elands Waste Water Treatment Work.
• Upgrading of the Kestell Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Refurbishment of the Makwane Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Refurbishment of the Moeding Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Upgrading of the Phuthaditjhaba Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Upgrading of the Tshiame Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Upgrading of the Wilge Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Drilling of boreholes in Intabazwe.
• Improving water revenue and reducing non-revenue water.
In addition, Mahlobo said allocations for infrastructure development have been made this financial year to municipalities under Thabo Mofutsanyana, such as Setsoto (R100 million), Nketoana (R83 million) and Dihlabeng (R60 million).
The imbizo discussed the “Development of a Social Compact through the DDM Approach”, and how to make a social compact to improve service delivery in communities.
The imbizo also zoomed into the Thabo Mofutsanyane District’s Social Compact progress, reviewed partnerships and devised means to strengthen them.
Furthermore, the imbizo looked at water and sanitation services in the area, as drivers of socio-economic development. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 10:42
Tourism partners with Google SA
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille will on Monday sign an agreement with Google, which will see the Ministry of Tourism and the digital platform collaborate on several areas of work.
This is in line with the department’s work of enhancing the use of technology to market South Africa’s tourism offering.
De Lille will sign the agreement with Dr Alistair Mokoena, the Country Director for Google South Africa.
In an era of digital transformation, collaboration between technology giants and government entities has the potential to reshape industries and enhance public services. According to the Department of Tourism, the agreement will map the way to a visionary partnership between Google and the Ministry of Tourism, focusing on non-monetary exchanges to leverage each other's strengths for mutual benefit.
“The primary goal of the partnership is to harness Google's technological expertise to support the Ministry of Tourism's efforts in promoting South Africa as a prime tourist destination. The partnership aims to facilitate knowledge sharing, skills development, and the use of digital tools to enhance tourism experiences and sustainability,” the department said in a statement.
The areas of collaboration include digital skills training, culture and heritage sites promotion, and thought leadership.
“By tapping into Google's technology through digital skills training and the sharing of insights, South Africa's industry, notably SMMEs, can present their offerings in innovative ways, engaging potential tourists and inspiring them to explore the country.
“The collaboration is in line with the goal of increasing international arrivals and growing domestic trips in South Africa. This in turn will help tourism businesses grow, help the country’s economic growth, and support job creation efforts,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 10:56
SA Navy starts process of replacing SAS Drakensberg vessel
The South African Navy says it will soon start a project to replace its combat support vessel, SAS Drakensberg, which is nearly 40 years old and has not been to sea for quite some time.
This is according to SA Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, who was speaking during the naming and acceptance ceremony of the second new multi-purpose inshore patrol vessel (MMIPV), SAS King Shaka Zulu, at Naval Base Durban.
Lobese said the SA Navy used to operate a number of different vessel types, namely submarines, offshore patrol vessels, frigates, a combat support vessel, a hydrographic survey vessel, anti-mine warfare vessels (mine hunters), deep diving support and torpedo recovery vessels.
The submarines and frigates were replaced during the Arms Deal about 20 years ago, whilst a new Hydrographic Survey Vessel is currently being built by Sandock Austral Shipyards in Durban.
The three new MMIPVs will take over the mine hunting, deep diving support and torpedo recovery roles of previous vessels and some patrol duties.
“The SA Navy is currently in the process to containerise the anti-mine warfare capability through Project Motso, so that it can be placed on these vessels.
“This capability is absolutely vital because even a threat of a sea mine can close a port like Durban for weeks on end. This will have devastating consequences for our economy. It requires specialised equipment and highly trained personnel, and is a vital capability for any Navy to have,” Lobese said.
According to Lobese, the SAS Drakensberg will be replaced with a new vessel, and this project will start soon.
“If we take our maritime security seriously, and if we want to protect our maritime economy, we need at least another 12 ships, of which six must be the larger offshore patrol vessels.
“I am absolutely convinced of the fact that over a 30-year period, the investment in these ships and the overall benefit to our economy in preventing theft of our marine resources, as well as criminality on our oceans, makes the procurement of an additional 12 vessels a very logical and rational choice,” Lobese said.
In addition to being used as a replenishment ship, SAS Drakensberg has also been used to patrol for pirates in the Mozambique Channel as part of Operation Copper. In April 2012, she helped European warships catch seven Somali pirates in the Channel.
SAS Drakensberg was launched in April 1986 by Sandock Austral and commissioned into service in November the following year.
She has a full load displacement of 12 500 tons and a length of 147 metres. She can carry 5 500 tons of fuel, 750 tons of ammunition and dry stores, and 210 tons of fresh water. In addition, 50 000 litres of fresh water can be made every day. Two Oryx helicopters, two landing craft and two RHIBs can be accommodated on board as well.
The Drakensberg is the largest ship built in South Africa to date and is reportedly the first naval vessel to be completely designed in the country. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 11:13
Creecy publishes Game Meat Strategy for SA
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, has published the Game Meat Strategy for South Africa (the Strategy) in the Government Gazette No.49620 for implementation.
The Strategy was approved by Cabinet on 27 September 2023. It seeks to formalise and transform the game meat industry.
The strategy is designed to contribute towards food security for the country. It aims to strengthen the game meat sector as both a provider of food security and an economic growth sector that can help create job opportunities.
The vision of the strategy is: “A formalised and transformed game meat industry in South Africa that supports thriving rural economies and nature, contributes to food security and inclusive socio-economic growth, conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, while reducing environmental risks”.
South Africa is ranked number one on the African continent for game meat production and the country therefore needs to take full advantage of the economic opportunities that the sector provides. The strategy seeks to ensure the creation of 202 666 sustainable jobs in the game meat industry by 2030.
“The strategy implementation plan calls for the three spheres of government, communities and their leaders, non-governmental organisations, the private sector, funders (domestic and international), academia, and research institutions to work together.
“It is through these partnerships that effective implementation of the strategy will contribute towards the conservation and sustainable utilisation of South Africa’s biodiversity while addressing economic, social and environmental problems such as poverty, zoonotic diseases, climate change, and food insecurity, for the benefit of the South African population,” the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said.
The Game Meat Strategy link can be found on: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/gamemeatstrategyofsouthafrica_g49620gon4042.pdf
A copy of the Government Gazette can be accessed at: www.environment.gov.za/legislation/gazetted_notices.or www.gpwonline.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 11:28
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis calls for tolerance, emphasises right to protest and condemns threat against Jewish school
Biodiversity agreements to be implemented by private rhino, lion owners in Limpopo
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), together with the Sustainable Finance Coalition, has developed Biodiversity Management Agreements (BMAs) to be implemented by three private rhino and lion owners in Limpopo.
The agreements were developed in consultation with the Wilderness Foundation Africa (WFA).
The BMAs, which are valid for a period of five years, are linked to the implementation of the Biodiversity Management Plans (BMPs) for the iconic species.
“These are the first BMAs to be developed and implemented in South Africa. These agreements offer unique biodiversity tax incentives for the landowners in terms of the Income Tax Act (ITA, Act 58 of 1962),” the DFFE said in a statement.
BMAs allow for a person, organisation or organ of State to manage a species or ecosystem through an approved BMP or to implement a part of that BMP, in accordance with National Environmental Management Biodiversity Agreement (NEMBA, Act No. 10 of 2004) and associated regulations.
The DFFE said the catalytic nature of the BMAs and their corresponding tax incentives are examples of South Africa’s innovative and effective conservation, as well as sustainable finance efforts.
In terms of the BMAs, the landowners undertake to carry out certain measures that contribute to the efforts of achieving the objectives for the conservation and management of wild lions and rhino, and undertake to comply with all legal obligations relating to the management of lions and rhino, as appropriate.
The landowners, who concluded the BMAs for the Southern Black Rhino and the African Lion, manage the species in open system protected areas in Limpopo.
The landowners are required to carry out numerous conservation-related measures and be responsible for any costs related to the management of the animals. These costs may be deducted through the associated tax incentive once all tax requirements are met.
The application of this conservation tax deduction is achieved through the Coalition’s Finance Solution Approach, which supports the Global Biodiversity Framework goals and sustainable finance needs.
The owners of the animals will also submit annual reports on progress on the implementation of the BMAs to the Minister.
The BMPs for both the black and white rhino and the African lion are presently being reviewed, which means the BMAs will be modified and updated once these are finalised to ensure alignment.
The implementing agent for the Rhino BMPs is the Rhino Management Group and for the Lion BMP, it is the National Lion Working Group. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 13:16
Transport Minister to receive IMO Audit team
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga will on Monday officially welcome the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Audit Team, who are in South Africa to conduct a Mandatory Audit under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS).
This will be followed by a preliminary audit outcome report, expected to be submitted at the end of the week-long undertaking.
The IMO, which South Africa became a member of in 1995, is a specialised agency of the United Nations responsible for regulating and promoting responsible shipping on a global scale.
South Africa, through the Department of Transport, actively engages with the IMO to ensure the implementation of international maritime regulations and standards within its maritime jurisdiction, specifically with compliance with International Conventions the country is party to.
The Republic undertook a Voluntary IMSAS in 2008. In February 2016, the IMO instituted mandatory audits, and a total of 113 audits have been completed to date with 28 African countries.
South Africa is one of the two African States, Benin being the other, scheduled for audits before end of 2023.
A number of State entities will be audited, including the department’s implementing agency responsible for maritime administration, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA). – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 13:31
SA Navy starts a process to replace SAS Drakensberg vessel
The South African Navy says it will soon start a project to replace its combat support vessel, SAS Drakensberg, which is nearly 40 years old and has not been to sea for quite some time.
This is according to SA Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, who was speaking during the naming and acceptance ceremony of the second new multi-purpose inshore patrol vessel (MMIPV), SAS King Shaka Zulu, at Naval Base Durban.
Lobese said the SA Navy used to operate a number of different vessel types, namely submarines, offshore patrol vessels, frigates, a combat support vessel, a hydrographic survey vessel, anti-mine warfare vessels (mine hunters), deep diving support and torpedo recovery vessels.
The submarines and frigates were replaced during the Arms Deal about 20 years ago, whilst a new Hydrographic Survey Vessel is currently being built by Sandock Austral Shipyards in Durban.
The three new MMIPVs will take over the mine hunting, deep diving support and torpedo recovery roles of previous vessels and some patrol duties.
“The SA Navy is currently in the process to containerise the anti-mine warfare capability through Project Motso, so that it can be placed on these vessels.
“This capability is absolutely vital because even a threat of a sea mine can close a port like Durban for weeks on end. This will have devastating consequences for our economy. It requires specialised equipment and highly trained personnel, and is a vital capability for any Navy to have,” Lobese said.
According to Lobese, the SAS Drakensberg will be replaced with a new vessel, and this project will start soon.
“If we take our maritime security seriously, and if we want to protect our maritime economy, we need at least another 12 ships, of which six must be the larger offshore patrol vessels.
“I am absolutely convinced of the fact that over a 30-year period, the investment in these ships and the overall benefit to our economy in preventing theft of our marine resources, as well as criminality on our oceans, makes the procurement of an additional 12 vessels a very logical and rational choice,” Lobese said.
In addition to being used as a replenishment ship, SAS Drakensberg has also been used to patrol for pirates in the Mozambique Channel as part of Operation Copper. In April 2012, she helped European warships catch seven Somali pirates in the Channel.
SAS Drakensberg was launched in April 1986 by Sandock Austral and commissioned into service in November the following year.
She has a full load displacement of 12 500 tons and a length of 147 metres. She can carry 5 500 tons of fuel, 750 tons of ammunition and dry stores, and 210 tons of fresh water. In addition, 50 000 litres of fresh water can be made every day. Two Oryx helicopters, two landing craft and two RHIBs can be accommodated on board as well.
The Drakensberg is the largest ship built in South Africa to date and is reportedly the first naval vessel to be completely designed in the country. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 11:13
White Paper set to overhaul migration system, says Motsoaledi
Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi says the recently published White Paper On Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection contains radical proposals that are aimed at overhauling the migration system in South Africa.
Cabinet approved the White Paper on Wednesday, 1 November 2023 for public comment. It was published in the Government Gazette No. 49661 on 10 November 2023, after what Motsoaledi described as a “painstaking exercise of drafting”.
The draft policy aims to provide a framework to guide the granting of residency and citizenship to foreign nationals, as well as the protection of refugees and asylum seekers in South Africa, cognisant of the Republic’s national security interests and in compliance with international agreements and protocols on migration that South Africa is party to.
“There have been consistent loud voices calling for effective policy measures and legislative interventions dealing with migration in South Africa.
“South Africa has different pieces of legislation dealing with citizenship, immigration and refugee protection, namely the Citizenship Act, Immigration Act and Refugees Act, as amended.
“In practice, these pieces of legislation are not in harmony with each other. Piecemeal amendments were made without any policy framework whatsoever,” Motsoaledi said at a briefing in Pretoria on Sunday.
Key proposals
Motsoaledi said one of the chief proposals in the White Paper is that the government of the Republic of South Africa must review and/or withdraw from the 1951 United Nations Refugees Convention (“1951 Convention”) and the 1967 Protocol relating to the Status of Refugees (“1967 Protocol”), with a view to accede to them with reservations like other countries.
“The refugee protection and immigration legislation must provide for reservations and exceptions, as contained in the 1951 Convention and the 1969 OAU [Organisation of African Unity -- now AU] Convention, particularly in that South Africa does not have the resources to grant the socio-economic rights envisaged in the 1951 Convention,” the Minister said.
He explained that the current citizenship legislation has its roots in the 1949 Citizenship Act (“1949 Act”) and other relevant successive laws governing citizenship.
He said the 1949 Act and other relevant laws were not only discriminatory on the basis of race and sex but the “natives” (black people) were totally excluded from the South African citizenship regime.
“The South African Citizenship Act provides for three main forms of citizenship, namely, citizenship by birth, citizenship by descent and citizenship by naturalisation,” Motsoaledi said.
The Minister said the Citizenship Act and Births and Deaths Registration Act must be repealed in their entirely and be included in the single legislation dealing with citizenship, immigration and refugee protection.
“This will remove contradictions and loopholes in the paths towards citizenship, as is now the case with the three pieces of legislation. The criteria for granting any form of citizenship must be strictly in accordance with the law.
“A proper register should be kept for all persons granted citizenship by naturalisation by the Minister. The register must be tabled every year in Parliament by the Minister,” Motsoaledi said.
Immigration
The Minister said South Africa is a great place to live in and many people in the world aspire to live, work or to be citizens of South Africa.
“[As a] result, many foreign nationals come to South Africa and stay in the country illegally. No one can account for all undocumented migrants. The Department of Home Affairs has no idea as to how many illegal immigrants are in South Africa.
“However, Immigration Services deports between 15 000 - 20 000 illegal foreigners every year at a huge cost. This number is on the increase.
“The establishment of the Border Management Authority (BMA) should significantly reduce the risk of foreigners entering the country illegally,” the Minister said.
Motsoaledi said the Border Management Authority Act must be reviewed to align it with Immigration and Citizenship new policy framework.
“The policy framework must provide for the establishment of the Advisory Board, which comprises representatives of the Departments of Trade, Industry and Competition, Labour and Employment, Tourism, South African Police Service, South African Revenue Service, Education, International Relations & Cooperation, Defence & Military Veterans and Director-General of the DHA [Department of Home Affairs].
“The Board must also comprise representatives of organised labour, including four individuals on the grounds of expertise in administration, regulatory matters or immigration law, control, adjudication and enforcement, appointed by the Minister.
“Policy and legislative interventions are required to tighten the procedures and strengthening the monitoring capacity by introducing integrated IT systems capable of flagging fraudulent activities in the issuing of visas, identity documents, marriage certificates and passports.
“This includes giving wide statutory powers to the existing Anti-Corruption Unit within the DHA,” the Minister said.
Motsoaledi said the new policy must provide that members of the Anti-Corruption Unit should be seconded from the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“The rationale being that members of the SAPS enjoy wide statutory powers, including search and arrest without a warrant,” the Minister said.
New legislation, Motsoaledi said, must be introduced to strengthen the powers of immigration officers and Inspectorate, and make continuing training compulsory. The majority of members of the Inspectorate must have legal qualifications and policing experience. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 13:02
ATNS scoops coveted Transformation Award
The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has scooped the Transformation Award at the prestigious annual Civil Aviation Industry Awards (CAIA) 2023 held in Johannesburg on Friday night.
“We are on the right track as an entity to meet the National Development Plan objectives as an aviation industry player,” ATNS Chief Executive Officer, Nozipho Mdawe, said.
The ATNS, an entity of the Department of Transport, recently developed a Transformation Policy that revised its strategies on Employment Equity, Supply Chain Management, Corporate Social Investment, and Enterprise and Supplier Development in its bid to become an inclusive organisation.
“It is certainly our efforts in establishing a consolidated approach to address transformation in all areas of the ATNS Business that earned us the CAIA 2023 Transformation Award,” Mdawe said.
The ATNS was also voted the first runner-up for the Aviation Research and Development Award for its progress in aeronautical innovation and air traffic management over the past 30 years.
This comes after the ATNS’s Aviation Training Academy was voted the International Air Transport Association’s best training academy for three consecutive years.
The other accolade went to ATNS Aviation Psychologist, Mr. Matita Tshabalala, who was nominated for the Aviation Professional Award category and voted second runner-up.
Matita is a registered Aviation Psychologist with the European Association for Aviation Psychology (EAAP). This makes him the first and only African in South Africa to be called an Aviation Psychologist.
“I must congratulate the ATNS team who worked tirelessly to secure all these accolades. As we celebrate 30 years of providing globally competitive air traffic and navigation services management this year, we are indeed on a mission to remain a leader in our field with the best people in place, just like Mr. Matita and many others in our ATNS team,” Mdawe said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 10:27
Cape Town, 10 Nov 2023 – the dynamic Damian Willemse, lit up the newly opened FUTURELIFE® store at Canal Walk Shopping Centre in Cape Town where excited fans had the opportunity to meet and interact with one of South Africa’s sporting heroes. The concept store, which opened its doors on 18 October 2023, served as …
Call for Western Cape government to stand with Palestine as it has with Ukraine
Cine Prestige theatres offer the ultimate business class cinema experience The two luxurious Cine Prestige cinemas at Ster-Kinekor’s Cavendish complex in Cape Town have enjoyed a full-body makeover in time for the festive season. Movie lovers are invited to come and enjoy the refreshed cinemas and lounge area to experience the ultimate in business-class movie …
Permit holders protected until at least June 2024
Stars of circularity, the ever-so-talented Katherine-Mary Pichulik, Cleo Droomer and Shamyra Moodley are among the line-up of winners at last yearâs Twyg Sustainable Fashion Awards who have accomplished some impressive feats since then. Almost a year later, letâs take a look at what these progressive, conscious fashionistas have been up to⦠âThe past year has …
Metal Mining and Allied Workers Unions of South Africa (MMAWUSA) holds inaugural press briefing
With many South Africans seeking affordable and reliable solar power solutions to protect their homes and businesses from load-shedding, Nedbank has launched its first set of market-leading solar financing packages available on its Avo Solar website. The packages aim to make greener energy supply accessible to households and businesses of all sizes by offering solar …
Call for the protection of journalists
While South Africaâs constitution supports and promotes media freedom, practitioners in the sector have called for the protection of journalists ahead of next yearâs general elections.
âThe 2021 elections were unsettling due to the danger that was faced by journalists. Some were kicked out of areas that they were working in and others were subjected to humiliation and threatened with violence while they were doing their jobs,â South African National Editorsâ Forum (SANEF) Acting Gauteng Regional Convenor Hopewell Radebe said on Thursday.
He was addressing a virtual panel discussion on Violence against Journalists and the Integrity of Elections that was hosted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
âSometimes the danger is also from political parties. They also start to point fingers at journalists for doing their jobs because the media is able to give a platform to the public to air their views and criticise the parties,â Radebe said.
He noted a growing trend of criminals who victimise the media while on the field and rob them of their tools of trade such as cellphones and cameras.
Former Director for Freedom of Expression and Media Development at UNESCO Prof Guy Berger said: âIncreasingly we are seeing the abuse, attacks and ganging up on journalists on social media. Of course, journalists should be criticised but there is a difference between criticism and intimidation or threatening death or harming people and their families.
âIt is very important that GCIS; the government must call out against incidents when there are attacks on journalists. For example when threatening WhatsApps are sent to editors with a subtle death threat or when a politician releases the private details, like a phone number, of a journalist.
"In terms of preventing the attacks, the GCIS is doing this by hosting this webinar. It is a contribution to the public climate that says it is not acceptable to have criminal attacks on journalists.â
He said the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists emphasised the protection of journalists and the prosecution of those who attack journalists.
The Plan of Action aims to create a free and safe environment for journalists and media workers, both in conflict and non-conflict situations, with a view to strengthening peace, democracy and development worldwide.
âWe know we have a problem of assassination in South Africa, intimidation and gangsterism. Government should take a stand and say to society, this is not acceptable or there will be consequences, you will be prosecuted. This is very important for preventing attacks, if you do not address the attacks you are encouraging them and we know that journalists who are killed, it starts with online threats.
âThe people who are doing this are not hidden. They often are doing this publicly. They can be tracked down and brought to account. Security forces also need to find a way to work with journalists instead of stopping them from doing their jobs,â Berger said.
IEC collaborates with media
During previous elections, SANEF teamed up with the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) to train journalists on understanding the environment that they are operating in and to understand the rules and regulations of the elections.
âThis year, we have been to five provinces with the IEC training journalists on rules and regulations and also to understand the impact of these changes in the elections and how this will impact their communities.
âWe will also be working with the police to identify hotspot and areas where there are tensions during the elections. Journalists have to be prepared differently and be alerted on what to expect in areas that are dangerous,â Radebe said.
He warned of a growing trend by members of the public not wanting to give space to journalists to do their job.
â⦠Particularly when they are campaigning for certain parties and they donât want to hear a journalist being fair, accurate and being balanced in their reporting to prospective voters so they can make an informed decision,â Radebe said. â SAnews.gov.za
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nosihle
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 09:13
Herbert Mensah, the newly elected President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body for rugby in Africa, participated in a one-to-one fireside chat at the 2023 Africa Investment Forum (AIF) on Thursday, November 10 in Marrakech, Morocco. Championed by the African Development Bank and seven other founding partners (Africa50, Africa Finance Corporation, Afreximbank, Development Bank of Southern Africa, European Investment Bank, Islamic Development Bank and Trade and Development Bank), the Africa Investment Forum is Africa's investment marketplace to accelerate transactions to close Africa's investment gaps.
Copyright-free video B-roll and images are available for the media to download and can be freely used without requiring authorization: https://apo-opa.co/478tDFH
Watch the video of the entire fireside chat: https://apo-opa.co/3SB1zq5
Founded in 2018, the Africa Investment Forum has mobilized nearly $143 billion in investment interest.
In the discussion, Rugby Africa President encouraged the investment of sport across Africa, emphasizing the importance of investment opportunities emerging from the continent itself.
“With abundant talent and the world's attention, Africa stands at the forefront of the global marketplace,” said Mensah. “It's time to turn this potential into power, investing in ourselves, forging structures that allow our resources to fuel our own growth, breaking free from the cycle of export and import that hinders the realization of our true economic potential.”
He added, “With South Africa emerging triumphant as the World Champions in the 2023 Rugby World Cup, the world once again witnessed the vast potential of Africa. To invest in rugby across Africa, is to invest in a continent of 1.3 billion people, utilizing the sport as a catalyst for both economic development and empowerment of the youth.”
The newly elected President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah, continues to emphasize the business potential of sport across Africa. Since his election, President Mensah has called for a change of mindset from African governments and international organizations to increase investment in rugby across Africa.
The sports industry in Africa is experiencing rapid growth, with the potential to generate jobs, improve public health, foster social inclusion and drive economic growth. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the industry was valued at $7 billion in 2018 with an expected growth of $12 billion in 2027. Despite the potential, investment across Africa remains limited, with only 1% of startup financing directed towards the sport sector.
The 2023 Africa Investment Forum brought together heads of state, business leaders, decision makers and investors to advance critical investment transactions to closure. Previous attendees include H.E Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, H.E Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa and H.E Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana. The annual three-day Africa Investment Forum Market Days event will conclude on Friday August 10 under the theme “Unlocking Africa's Value Chain” in Marrakech, Morocco.
Read more information about the Africa Investment Forum: https://www.AfricaInvestmentForum.com/en
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com
About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
Progress made in the fight against criminality
Government is making inroads into destroying criminal activities as well as syndicates and has vowed to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that criminals are dealt with, says Defence and Military Veterans Minister Thandi Modise.
âWe will make sure that as the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster, we create a safe and secure environment for our people to live [in],â Modise said on Friday.
The Minister was addressing a JCPS cluster media briefing to provide progress made in combating organised crime which she said, is a growing concern as it negatively impacts on the livelihood of citizens, the economy and compromises the safety and security of people.
âSouth Africans have borne the wrath of criminals masquerading in our communities causing disruption in their daily lives. In some parts of our communities, extortion and protection fees demanded by criminal syndicates have become the order of the day.â
She added that infrastructure mafias continue to destabilise the construction industry through intimidation and the threatening of peopleâs lives.
 âThese and other criminal activities have put fear in our people and undermine the authority of the state.â
Operation Shanela
Through the South African Police Servicesâ Operation Shanela, South Africa has adopted a decisive approach in reducing the high levels of crime.
Operation Shanela is the SAPS crime combating high density operations incepted in May 2023.
 âIt is through Operation Shanela, that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has successfully arrested 213 059 suspects for various crimes such as cash-in transit robberies, extortion at construction sites and kidnappings in the past six months.
âDuring the same period, 2 657 illegal and unwanted firearms were confiscated,â Modise said.
The operation has led to the arrest of 19 299 suspects who were arrested for drug possession while 7 580 were arrested for drug trafficking and dealing in the last six months.
On cash-in-transit (CIT) heists and crimes associated with it, law enforcement agencies continue to make inroads with the police having arrested 75 wanted suspects in the past six months.
âThe arrests were made during foiled CIT attempts, during the commission of these crimes and during targeted tracing operations,â she said.
On the drugs front, the latest drug busts are a clear indication that government remains committed to the fight against drug trafficking. Law enforcement is hard at work in identifying emerging trends in the transportation and packaging of these drugs and closing down of clandestine laboratories.
 âIt is therefore encouraging that nine drug laboratories worth more than R3 million were dismantled in Gauteng, North West and the Western Cape. In a space of three weeks, police have intercepted large quantities of cocaine in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.
âThe latest cocaine consignment was seized last week at the sea port in Gqeberha where R65 million worth of cocaine was seized from a vessel that was coming in from Brazil,â Modise said.
Two other drugs busts were made in KwaZulu-Natal where R150 million worth of cocaine was seized in the space of two days.
With regard to extortion at economic and construction sites, Modise said various threats were identified that impact negatively on the economy of the country.
âFrom April 2023 to date, 61 suspects linked to these extortions were arrested. Since 2019, 27 accused have already been convicted for a collective 43 years direct imprisonment.â
On kidnapping for ransom, Modise said from April 2023 to date, 98 suspects have been arrested for these crimes and more than 30 victims have been rescued.
The cluster said government continues to deploy Anti-Gang-Unit members in provinces prone to gang violence such as the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Gauteng.
â190 arrests have thus far been effected in 145 cases,â she said.
Also speaking at the media briefing held in Pretoria was Police Minister, Bheki Cele, who said police operations are continuing to ensure that criminals are flushed out.
âThey are interfering with the lives of communities. They are armed, they need to be pursued,â he said, adding that law enforcement has identified some of the people involved in illegal mining and is on their trail.
âSome of these people are from our neighbouring countries and relevant Ministers are dealing with the matter. We are hoping to find a lasting solution to this matter,â he said.
Illegal mining
Responding to a question on illegal mining, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said there is a plan to seal all the illegal mines.
âThe Department of Mineral Resources is working on the policy matter to close all the illegal mines in the country,â Ntshavheni said.
Ntshavheni said some of the mine owners canât be traced.
Modise said in the past twelve months, government has witnessed an increase in incidents where illegal miners held communities at ransom, committing various violent crimes, including murder and rape.
âIllegal mining has also been linked to other organised crimes such as gangsterism, human trafficking, money laundering, dealing in illegal weapons and explosives, tax evasion, illegal immigration and transnational organised crimes,â she said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has roped in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to assist in dealing with illegal mining in the country. Â â SAnews.gov.za
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Edwin
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 10:24
Eskom's Hex Battery Energy Storage System is a step in the right direction
Projects like Eskomâs Hex Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Worcester in the Western Cap can assist the country in ending load shedding.
This is according to Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan who said these kinds of projects create hope that sooner rather than later, South Africa is going to overcome the challenge of load shedding.Â
Minister Gordhan was delivering remarks at the launch of Eskomâs Battery Energy Storage System at the Hex substation in the Breede Valley Municipality.
The project â which was launched on Thursday - is a first in Africa.Â
âIf we do more of these kinds of projects in other parts of the country, which is what Eskom intends to do, we will see the end of load shedding pretty soon. Today, after a few hiccups, you see in live form, the launch of this BESS project right in front of us. It is a great achievement for Eskom and the country.Â
âEskom is demonstrating that it can have a sense of urgency, it can have an important quality that we all need in South Africa and elsewhere â which is the ability to innovate and create new ways of doing things. And not just think about them, but concretely deliver them. That is the key,â the Minister said.Â
BESS is a giant step in the right direction to support the Just Energy Transition (JET) programme for boosting green energy as a renewable alternative source. As renewable energy begins to grow, so does the demand for the installation of Battery Energy Storage Systems.
The Hex battery storage project is the first part of Eskomâs Battery Energy Storage System rollout scheduled for construction in the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Easter Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
Through these kinds of projects, the Minister said, the country will grow economically and be able to create more jobs.Â
âWe are going to get more investments, not just in the Western Cape but the whole country. Our younger people can look toward to a much better life than those of us that have lived through the last few decades.
âSo, this is an opportunity to demonstrate to our own people and citizens, and the globe, that South Africans are innovative, and can deliver world class solutions like the one that we actually see today,â he said.Â
The Minister emphasised that it is important that focus is placed on what is best for the country, and what is best for the people of the country, and not for the few individuals who want to become rich as a result of these projects.Â
Quoting the recent Census results, Gordhan said that there are 62 million people who must be beneficiaries of these sorts of projects and of the work that is being done.Â
The Minister reiterated governmentâs aim which is to have enough electricity or energy security in this country.
âSo, there must be a reserve, just like you have in a savings account for a day when you need some cash. In the same way, you need an energy savings account because you donât know when you are going to need extra energy.Â
âRight now, we have a shortage. We need to get to a point where we have a surplus. And we need to continue keeping that surplus. And Eskom as an institution is going to play a crucial part in developing that surplus through the investment of the private sector in renewables and other forms of energy,â the Minister said.Â
He explained that the 120 battery banks cost a fair amount of money - R830 million - and during the construction 255 residents of the greater Worcester area were employed.Â
He said they must take the experience and the lessons that will be learnt from this project and use it elsewhere, to make whatever changes that are necessary to have more successful projects in the remaining provinces.Â
Minister Gordhan extended his gratitude to the funders. He said that without the concessional funding that they have for Eskom from the World Bank, African Development Bank, and the New Development Bank, they would not have been able to prosecute this project.
He also thanked Hyosung Heavy Industries, who supplied the batteries. The Minister further thanked Eskom for thinking about this idea and for researching the idea. - SAnews.gov.za
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DikelediM
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 10:40
President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his warm congratulations to Prof Dire Tladi of the University of Pretoria on his election by the United Nations as a judge of the International Court of Justice.
In May 2023, Cabinet endorsed Prof Tladi's nomination by the South African Government, together with South Africa's membership on the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
The International Court of Justice is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations and one of the six principal bodies of the UN.
The Court's role is to settle, in accordance with international law, legal disputes submitted to it by States and to give advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by authorised United Nations organs and specialised agencies.
The Court comprises 15 judges who are elected for terms of office of nine years by the United Nations General Assembly and the Security Council.
Professor Tladi is a leading international law scholar whose accomplishments span different areas of the field, including academic, government service, diplomatic and practice.
He is Professor of International Law at the University of Pretoria and serves as President of the South African Branch of the International Law Association and Executive Member of the International Law Association.
He has served as Chair of the International Law Commission, an organ of the UN generally regarded as a feeder body for the International Court of Justice.
He was previously Legal Adviser of the South African Mission in New York and Special Adviser to South African Ministers of international relations.
President Ramaphosa said: “Prof Tladi's election as a judge of the International Court of Justice is an outstanding personal achievement in which the nation shares with great pride.
“We appreciate the confidence expressed by the United Nations in Prof Tladi's capabilities.
“He becomes the newest member of a fraternity of South Africans globally who are in positions of service to the international community and making important contributions to the better world we seek to build.
“We wish Prof Tladi well as he prepares to contribute to the Court and its jurisprudence from the Palace of Peace in The Hague, Netherlands.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
The Joint Standing Committee on Defence has called for the appointment of the Chief Defence Reserves to drive the strategic implementation of the decisions taken at the Reserve Force Indaba II. The committee remains of the view that the Reserve Force plays a critical role in the further development of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and without a permanent leader to drive the strategic role of the reserves might negatively impact decision-making as the SANDF makes decisions about the future.
“The SANDF is currently undergoing a review process on the role, cost and rejuvenation of the reserve force and this process should have included the ideas and foresight of a permanent Chief Defence Reserves to ensure that in the medium to long terms the incumbent implements a strategic outlook they would contributed to shaping,” said Mr Cyril Xaba, the Co-Chairperson of the committee.
The committee remains concerned that the average age for the reserves is 46 and is ever-increasing, which require strategies to ensure rejuvenation and enhance viability. Also concerning to the committee is that the reduction in budgets will lead a further decline of the reserves over the medium term. These concerns would best be driven and solved by a permanent Chief Defence Reserves.
Meanwhile, the committee appreciated the announcement that the Reserve Force Indaba II has sat and engaged to develop the reserve's strategic role and direction in delivering on the SANDF's mandate. The committee has requested that the final product to be adopted at the Reserve Force Indaba III be tabled to enable the committee to make its own contribution.
The committee has also called for the SANDF to urgently determine the status of the ±7 500 members who have not been called up in the past five years, as identified in 2018/19. The current number of reserves not called up stands at 5 233 but the committee has emphasised the need for the Department of Defence to work with the Department of Home Affairs to ensure that the PERSOL system is functional.
The committee also is aware of the reserve's critical importance, make especially their surge capability and in the provision of specialist skills to the SANDF.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.