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National Assembly Passes the Railway Safety Bill and the Climate Change Bill
The National Assembly (NA) has, during its hybrid plenary this afternoon, passed the Climate Change Bill and the Railway Safety Bill, respectively.
Introduced in Parliament in 2022, the Climate Change Bill is the first piece of legislation in South Africa specifically aimed at mitigating and addressing the effects of climate change. The Bill's objective is to establish a robust strategy for addressing climate change and implementing a fair, long-term energy transition plan, and ultimately fostering a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy in South Africa.
The Bill further seeks to manage climate change adaptation to impacts such as flooding, drought, wildfires, excessive heat, and water and food insecurity. The Bill provides that government, at provincial and national levels, is obliged to assess all the risks and expected impacts and create response plans.
The Bill also defines responsibilities for different national, provincial, and local governments, ensuring that all relevant role-players are mandated to do their part in responding to climate change and work together effectively.
The Bill is intended to ensure that the country is empowered to respond adequately and safely to climate change and its risks and impact. It seeks to regulate climate change mitigation through the reduction of greenhouse gas carbon emissions.
According to the Bill, the minister responsible for the environment must assign carbon budgets to companies to limit their carbon emissions.
The Railway Safety Bill, on the other hand, aims to amend the National Railway Safety Regulator Act 16 of 2002 by facilitating an improvement in general safety within the railway environment.
It seeks to ensure that rail becomes an attractive mode of transport and contributes towards economic growth, which is a platform to effectively fight inequality, poverty, and unemployment.
Additionally, in an effort to align legislation with the White Paper on National Rail Policy and government's plan to move passengers and freight from road to rail, the Bill proposes and promotes the use of rail as an efficient mode of transport. Also, the Bill aims to facilitate a modern, flexible, and efficient regulatory regime that ensures the continuing enhancement of safe railway operations across the country.
Both Bills will now be sent to the National Council of Provinces for concurrence.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
SA urges BRICS collaboration for tourism
SA urges BRICS collaboration for tourism
South African Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, says the BRICS partnership is enough reason for Tourism Ministers and countries to come together and work in collaboration to grow their sectors and economies.
De Lille made the remarks during the opening session of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) Tourism Ministers meeting held in Cape Town on Tuesday.
Held under the theme: "Sustainable and inclusive tourism recovery", the meeting builds on South Africa's 2023 BRICS Summit held in August under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism".
De Lille noted that in the Summit Declaration, BRICS Heads of State acknowledged the urgent need for tourism industry recovery and the importance of increasing mutual tourist flows.
“We are here today to agree on a way forward and action plan. The BRICS Tourism Ministers Meeting will exchange information and experiences in our tourism sectors.
“It is also an opportunity for BRICS Members to reach a consensus on key policy priorities for a more just and sustainable tourism recovery. We do so because we know that poverty, unemployment and inequality are the biggest problems the world faces,” De Lille said.
According to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), international arrivals could reach 80% to 95% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023.
In South Africa, the tourism sector has risen from January to August 2023, with a total of 5.5 million international tourists arriving in the country, signifying a remarkable 70.6% surge compared to the same period in 2022.
While this resurgence is encouraging, the Minister noted these figures still lag behind the pre-pandemic levels of 2019 by a 19.0% shortfall.
However, she said the figures are encouraging, noting that within the 5.5 million arrivals, “the African region has the biggest share.”
The Minister noted that tourism can be an engine of growth of our economy, and it is also a key part of our country's Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.
“We have seen similar growth in our fellow BRICS countries. This recovery provides an opportunity to implement transformational shifts as the travel and tourism sector creates a more resilient and inclusive future.
“As international arrivals are forecast to reach 1.8 billion by 2030, this growth should be sustainable and inclusive and contribute positively to the communities, natural ecosystems, and cultural heritage,” the Minister said.
Aligning tourism strategies
De Lille also called on BRICS Members to align tourism strategies with the six lines of action, as recommended by the UNWTO's One Planet Vision for a Responsible Recovery of the Tourism Sector.
These include public health, social inclusion, biodiversity conservation, combating climate change, ensuring a circular economy that empowers all, and a commitment to fair and transparent governance and finance.
“Our collective recovery of tourism must be measured beyond economic impacts. A fairer development model is called for.
“It involves stakeholders at different levels in its planning and implementation and provides decent work conditions and opportunities for all, including women, youth, people with disabilities and indigenous communities,” De Lille said.
She said the meeting will explore cooperation priorities for BRICS Members to achieve a resilient, sustainable and inclusive tourism recovery.
“We will look at mainstreaming sustainable policies and practices so we can take steps to support better the transition to a green, low emissions and climate-resilient tourism economy.
“We will look at developing more sustainable tourism business models using technology to manage visitor flows better. We will encourage a paradigm shift by reconsidering perceptions of tourism success. Is it just arrival numbers or the actual impact on communities?” she asked. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:14
588 views
IEC launches the 2024 National and Provincial Elections programme
IEC launches the 2024 National and Provincial Elections programme
The Electoral Commission of South Africa has formally launched the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE 2024) programme as a means of declaring its readiness to host millions of eligible voters at over 23 296 voting stations across the country next year.
According to the Electoral Commission, the NPE 2024 will be historic, as independent candidates will, for the first time, be able to contest for seats in the national and provincial elections.
The legislation enabling the participation of independent candidates was signed into law in April by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The Commission, led by the institution’s chairperson Mosotho Moepya and Sy Mamabolo, the Chief Electoral Officer, presided over the launch of the NPE 2024 at Gallagher Estate in Midrand and was attended by various stakeholders, including political parties.
“Today, we stand proud as the pre-eminent Constitutionally-mandated body that manages elections, and make bold that we are ready for the NPE 2024,” Mamabolo said.
Mamabolo explained that while the term of office of the current legislatures, national and provincial governments ends around 18 May 2023, the national and provincial governments will remain in office until the newly elected public representatives are able to take office.
He said in terms of the Constitution, the country must have an election within 90 days of the expiry of the legislatures’ terms.
“Therefore, an election is possible between May and the middle of August 2024. The proclamation of the election date is by our Head of State, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, after consultation with the Electoral Commission.
“Our expectation is that the provincial elections will be, as they have for the past 30 years, synchronised with the national election,” he said.
Mamabolo said once the Electoral Amendment Act was signed into law by the President, the Commission moved with speed to finalise the supporting business applications necessary for the implementation of the Act.
Prior to each election, the Electoral Commission launches registration drives aimed at enrolling new voters and empowering existing ones to scrutinise and, where necessary, amend their registration details.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to open nearly all voting stations for the weekend of November 18th and 19th, 2023.
This monumental effort not only registers new voters but also facilitates the verification of the roll. Station-based registration ensures equitable access to the vote.
Modernising registration
Furthermore, the Electoral Commission has expanded registration modalities to enable voters’ continuous enrolment.
For those with internet access, registration, inspection and updates are accessible via www.elections.org.za.
Voters may also visit local Commission offices or capitalise on various activation campaigns to register and update their information.
The theme for NPE 2024 will be: “Your Democracy, Own It” - celebrating the fruits of democracy by showcasing different, real-life experiences of young South Africans from all corners of the country.
The Commission called on South Africans to use its online portal for registration, verification and updates.
“We urge you to actively participate in the registration weekends and exercise your responsibility as engaged citizens who choose their own representatives.
“We extend a call to all electoral stakeholders to stand shoulder to shoulder with us, working collaboratively to make these historic elections a resounding success,” Mamabolo said.
Moepya said the Electoral Commission of South Africa is approaching the upcoming elections with immense pride and a profound sense of responsibility.
“This is so because our electoral democracy has come a long way since those historic elections in 1994, when millions of South Africans cast their votes for the very first time. While it is essential that we recognise the remarkable achievements of the past three decades, it is necessary for us to embrace the challenges that lie before us,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:37
1479 views
Nando’s Silverlakes: Ntho Tse Monate
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy delicious PERi-PERi chicken and admire stunning Southern African art, look no further than Nando’s Silverlakes Drive-Thru (DT). This fresh joint, located at the intersection of Solomon Mahlangu Drive and Stellenberg Road in Pretoria, is more than just a dining spot; it’s a destination that celebrates the diversity …
Ensuring education for all
Ensuring education for all
While challenges in the education sector remain, gains are being made to ensure learning for all.
The results of Census 2022 released recently, not only revealed that the country’s population grew to 62 million from 51.7 million in 2011, but also that the population remains relatively youthful. The data showed that 61.2% of the population is under the age of 35.
Of key interest of the data released is that of accomplishments in the education sector, given the country’s history of the exclusion of the majority.
Section 29 of South Africa’s Bill of Rights speaks to the fact that everyone has the right to basic education, including adult basic education; and to further education, which the state, through reasonable measures, must make progressively available and accessible.
Since South Africa attained democracy close to 30-years ago, government has put in place various measures to ensure access to education for all. These measures include the introduction of no-fee schools, school nutrition programmes and access to scholar transport.
The 2022 Census - which is the fourth to be conducted in democratic South Africa - notes that access to educational institutions is an important step to universal education, but that “the ultimate goal would be to keep children at school until completion of their education.”
According to the census, in 2022, 73.4% of the population aged 5-24 years were attending school, up from the 70.1% recorded in democratic South Africa’s first census in 1996.
The census plays an essential role in planning, policy formulation, evaluation and budget allocation of the country.
It also revealed that the percentage of those aged 20 years and older who completed secondary education more than doubled from 16.3% in 1996 to 37.6% in 2022.
This as the Department of Basic Education has acknowledged a slight rise in the number of those not attending educational institutions.
“We do acknowledge that there has been a slight increase in the number of 5-24-year-olds not attending an educational institution since the last census in 2011, of about 200 000. However, this is partly due to population growth (the number of 5-24-year-olds attending has increased by even more) and [is] partly due to earlier completion of schooling,” said the department’s spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.
Additionally, the data showed that over 14.1 million of those aged 20 and above, completed secondary education in 2022, followed by 11.9 million who achieved some secondary education and 4.6 million who attained post-school education.
Mhlanga said the average age of youths successfully completing a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification has been gradually lowering over the years.
“The result is an astonishing trend over time; the percentage of 22-25-year-olds attending education actually decreased from 16.4% in 2002 to 15.8% in 2021. Yet, over the same period, the percentage of 22-25-year-olds having completed grade 12 increased dramatically from 39% to 62%.”
He pointed out that the country’s school system used to be far more inefficient, with many children staying in school into their twenties but then exiting without having completed Grade 12.
“These days, children repeat less, are less likely to be in school into their twenties, but most important of all, they are much more likely to successfully complete a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification,” he explained.
COVID-19 and challenges
He also touched on the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic, which disrupted schooling.
“The Minister’s [Angie Motshekga] move to reopen schools in spite of the fear and criticism has now been fully vindicated. The spread of the virus was not affected by reopening schools, and despite worries about increased dropping out of school during the pandemic, the opposite happened; more candidates wrote and passed the matric exams in 2020, 2021 and 2022 than ever before.”
He added that the department is well aware of the challenges in the education sector.
“The quality of learning in the early grades, especially in foundational literacy and numeracy, remains a critical priority, and was negatively impacted by the pandemic.
“Another challenge, or rather opportunity, is to improve the quality of Early Childhood Development opportunities now that this responsibility has been shifted from the Department of Social Development to Basic Education.”
Census 2022 revealed that 3.4 million children aged 0–4 years participated in the Early Childhood Development (ECD) programme.
Last year, government moved the responsibility of the provision of the ECD programme from the Department of Social Development to the Department of Basic Education. In June, Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Basic Education received a progress report from the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
“We must acknowledge the challenges that exist in South African education, but all the trends in access, equity, quality and efficiency are overwhelmingly positive,” said Mhlanga.
Development
Reacting to the census results, Cabinet said the country has been developing over the course of the last 29 years.
This is in addition to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call to government departments, policy makers, researchers, civil society organisations and international organisations to use information from Census 2022 to collectively strive to improve people’s lives.
“Census 2022 has told us where we are making progress, but it has also laid bare the challenges that remain. It will be an invaluable tool in meeting those challenges. We now have the information we need to ensure that as we build this country, we leave no one behind,” the President said as he received the results of the count from Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke.
The population and housing census was conducted in February 2022 and provides comprehensive data on population size, demographic trends and other service delivery related information. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:50
467 views
SA enters documentary on Dr Joseph Shabalala to compete at Oscars
SA enters documentary on Dr Joseph Shabalala to compete at Oscars
South Africa has submitted a film about Ladysmith Black Mambazo founder and musical director Dr Joseph Shabalala for consideration to compete in the International Feature Film category for the 96th Annual Academy Awards (Oscars).
“Music is My Life tells the story of the late South African musician Shabalala, who rose to international acclaim with his band Ladysmith Black Mambazo and contributed to Paul Simon’s successful Graceland album,” the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) said.
Produced by the seasoned award-winning producer, Carolyn Carew, the feature documentary film was shot over a period of five years and Shabalala’s creative process through the inspiring lense of his life.
“It is always a great and privileged opportunity to have a South African film represent the country at the global industry’s foremost awards. The fact that this particular film tells the authentic South African story of the iconic Dr Shabalala, is even more special,” NFVF Acting CEO Thobela Mayinje said.
The NFVF said the film is an engaging tribute to South Africa’s diverse culture, one of South Africa’s most distinct traditional musical forms, isicathamiya, and the man with a remarkable voice who made it globally relevant.
“Since its release, the film has screened at a number of local and international film festivals and has garnered critical acclaim by audiences in countries like America, New Zealand, Australia and Spain, to name a few. Locally, Music is My Life screened at the Labia Cinema for over five days and on what would have been Dr Shabalala’s 83rd birthday, the public broadcaster’s SABC 1 channel aired the film,” the foundation said.
The decision to enter the film was made after a rigorous judging process by the South African Academy Awards Selection Committee.
This year’s committee comprised a diverse group of seasoned industry professionals from various fields within the film industry, who were submitted to and approved by the Academy.
“Once the call for submissions closed on 10 August 2023, the committee evaluated a total of four film submissions from 18 to 22 September 2023, at Nu Metro cinemas in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
“The submissions were evaluated based on the Academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film eligibility criteria. The NFVF appointed a reputable firm, SNG Grant Thornton to assess the overall judging process and ensure the integrity of the process.
“Once the committee had deliberated in its meeting held on 22 September 2023, the submission Music is My Life - Joseph Shabalala and Ladysmith Black Mambazo received the highest votes as the official selection once the scores were tallied and vetted by the auditors,” the foundation said.
The official nominations for the 96th Annual Academy Awards will be announced on 23 January 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 14:53
419 views
Eskom’s generation steadily improving – Ramokgopa
Eskom's generation steadily improving - Ramokgopa
Improved performance of Eskom’s generating fleet is beginning to turn the tide against load shedding.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who delivered a statement on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan (EAP) in the National Assembly on Tuesday.
The EAP was introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July last year to address the intensification of load shedding.
“Generation performance continues to improve from the May 2023 days of 27410MW [generation] to 28 883MW in October month to date. Last week, we saw generation breach the psychological mark of 30 000MW largely buoyed by the return to service of Kusile units 3 and 1 over the past month.
“This improved generation and lower than projected demand has allowed for exceptional increase in planned outage or good maintenance. The increased planned outage means that we are improving the overall performance capacity of the fleet, improving reliability and efficiency and steadily ensuring that we navigate to an equilibrium between demand and supply buffered by healthy reserve margin,” he said.
The Minister added that since May this year, unplanned outages where generating units break down have been fewer.
“This is a function of the increased planned maintenance and improved reliability of Units.
“Following a period of increased planned maintenance between mid-August 2023 and mid-October 2023, UCLF has dropped to 13527 MW from the May 2023 baseline of 17369 MW. This represents an improvement in the available capacity of 3841 MW, amounting to over three stages of load shedding,” he said.
Kusile Power Station
Ramokgopa told the National Assembly that the improvement at Kusile power station bears testament to the belief that the power station can drive forward Eskom’s improvement in generation capacity.
In October last year, units at the power station went offline following a duct failure.
“We have always been firm that Kusile Power Station would anchor the drive for generation capacity to get ahead of the demand curve.
“The two units returned have injected an additional 1600 MW over the past month, whilst Units 2 and 5 will add another 1600 MW. This means the 4 Kusile Units will provide a total of 3200 MW of base load by December 2023. The last remaining Kusile unit, Unit 6, is planned to be synchronised in August 2024.
“The early return of the two units is a result of judicious and smart engineering. We anticipate returning Unit 2 by the third week of November 2023. Additionally, Kusile Unit 4…was returned to service on 17 September 2023, three days ahead of the planned date.
“Kusile Unit 5 was originally planned for completion on 28 October 2023 but was rescheduled to later in order to prioritise the return of the three commercial Kusile units. Unit 5 is now scheduled to be synchronised by December 2023,” he said.
Forging ahead
The Minister acknowledged that load shedding continues to take a heavy toll on South Africans.
However, Ramokgopa expressed confidence that the task of lowering and eventually ending load shedding is well underway.
“The national energy crisis continues to be the single biggest existential challenge in post-apartheid South Africa, and we must continue to harness all efforts to arrest further haemorrhaging caused by load shedding to our economy and the degradation of the quality of lives of ordinary South Africans.
“In May 2023, I stood in this august House to deliver an executive statement outlining the transversal interventions we were making to reduce the intensity and frequency of load shedding and to articulate our plans in relation to the winter plan. Working with the dedicated staff at Eskom and industry experts, we have successfully navigated through the winter season and are beginning to turn the tide,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 15:16
278 views
PRASA launches accommodation to house NSFAS students
PRASA launches accommodation to house NSFAS students
A total of 3 200 eligible beneficiaries of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) are set to benefit from the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA)’s development project in Cape Town.
This as Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga, officially opened the R1.2 billion Mixed-Use Development Student Accommodation and Retail project in Cape Town on Tuesday.
Eris Property Group has secured the forecourt of the Cape Town Station on a long-term lease from PRASA and have completely reimagined this landmark location into a vibrant new precinct, spanning 2.4 hectares.
“A 7 000 square meter retail sector is being renovated as part of this landmark project to better serve locals and commuters alike. The retail precinct is planned to be finished in November 2023. I am happy to inform you that the project is 82% complete, with students moving in, starting in February 2024,” the Minister said.
PRASA has invested in development projects for accommodation and retail facilities in Cape Town and Johannesburg to ensure it realises the full potential of its property portfolio.
In addition, the first phase of the R575 million Goodwood Station Social Housing initiative is at about 70% complete.
“Over a thousand rental units at reasonable prices will have been made available in the City of Cape Town thanks to this ambitious project by the end of October 2023.
“The Public Real Estate Asset Management Company of South Africa, its investment company - Intersite Investment - the DCI Community Housing Services, the Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA), the Infrastructure Fund, and the City of Cape Town all worked together to create this successful project.
“It will include the construction of 1 055 affordable dwelling units on PRASA-owned land near the Goodwood Station, as well as a 5 000 square meter retail facility on the station deck. The completion of the project’s second stage is anticipated for the year 2024,” Chikunga said.
Chikunga said a significant step in ensuring PRASA’s long-term financial stability is the 25% co-investment it has made in the Cape Town Station development via its special purpose vehicle, Intersite.
“This exemplifies our determination to rebrand our stations as thriving communities where people can live, work and play, thereby transforming them into transit hubs that provide a better experience for passengers and shoppers,” she said.
The Minister explained that real estate investment and development, urban telecommunication and more fall within PRASA’s secondary mandate, which is carried out by PRASA’s property division, PRASA Corporate Real Estate Solutions, and Intersite Asset Investments.
“To help defray the expense of operating passenger rail, we are carefully attempting to conform to worldwide best practices. PRASA’s capacity to maintain its commitment to economical, dependable, and safe commuter train service is contingent on its ability to diversify its revenue streams beyond passenger fares,” Chikunga said.
She also announced that Intersite is a co-investor in “The Rynx,” a real estate project in Braamfontein, Johannesburg.
“The current PRASA offices in the Tippet building will be converted into 189 apartments and other uses as part of this project. Construction is scheduled to begin in October 2023 at an estimated cost of R67 million and [it will] take 18 months.
“Additionally, we are nearing completion on 20 more student and gap year accommodation buildings across our broad train network. These initiatives are essential to realising the full potential of our property portfolio and reviving passenger train services,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 15:30
243 views
National Productivity Awards ceremony to honour top enterprises
Media Invite: National Productivity Awards ceremony to honour top enterprises Companies that have improved their productivity and performed beyond expectations in South Africa are to receive the National Productivity Awards at the National Awards ceremony penciled for Friday 27th October in Midrand. The event follows a stringent adjudication process by the Department of Employment and Labour …
Property Investment In Namibia For South Africans
Namibia is a beautiful and diverse country with a stable political and economic climate, making it a prime destination for property investment. South Africans are particularly drawn to Namibia due to its close proximity, similar culture, and affordable property prices. Schantal Teichmann, franchisee of Just Property Windhoek and Just Property Swakopmund, shares her insights into …
Liquor Amendment Bill under the spotlight
Liquor Amendment Bill under the spotlight
Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu has acknowledged the message of the 7th Bi-Annual Global Alcohol Policy Conference (GAPC) to pass the Liqour Amendment Bill.
“I hear you and that is the message “Pass the Liqour Amendment Bill now.” From the department of Social Development and all other government people that are here, [we] take note of what has been brought to us here. This is a positive message and a message that says to us we must listen when you stand up to talk to us.
"Let us make the 7th Bi-Annual Global Alcohol Policy Conference remarkable by accomplishing the things we collectively pledged to achieve and for collective action to put the needs of the world’s most vulnerable citizens ahead of profit,” Minister Zulu said.
The Minister was delivering the keynote opening remarks on the occasion of the 7th GAPC held in Cape Town on Tuesday.
GAPC is the leading forum for the world’s alcohol policy makers, advocates, researchers, civil society activists and practitioners.
The official launch was hosted by the Minister and attended by congregants from over 50 countries around the globe. Some of the key concerns that stood out from some speeches from keynote speakers, were the fact that profits are being put ahead of lives.
Zulu emphasised that the country’s approach to alcohol policy has to shift from one where the objectives revolve around economic growth to the interest of public health, with specific focus on reducing alcohol-related harms.
“I hope the conference will be an important turning point that will provide impetus for the much-needed focus on the World Health Organisation’s Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol.
Draft Policy on the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Use Disorders
The Minister said that the conference came at a perfect time after a month of government tabling the Draft Policy on the Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Use Disorders to Cabinet for public consultation.
The policy provides a framework for decision-making within the whole sector about where the greatest drug-related harms are occurring, and identifying the best means to address those harms.
“We are pleased that Cabinet approved the Policy for public consultation and recommended the establishment of a special committee of Cabinet Ministers to ensure coordination, strategic alignment and decision making in harm prevention and reduction strategies across government.
“I am therefore confident that this policy conference under the theme ‘Investing in People Before Profits: Building momentum towards the Framework Convention on Alcohol Control,’ will provide the necessary political impetus and generate new research and evidence-based ideas in drug and alcohol policy,” the Minister said.
Addiction
The Minister highlighted that government is concerned that up to one in three teenagers are addicted to drugs and alcohol in South Africa.
This figure is based on the numbers of young people presenting themselves to treatment facilities.
‘While we are concerned about the harm that all drugs have on individuals, families and or society as a whole, there is a significant body of evidence from research institutions such as the South African Medical Research Council and Soul City that suggest that alcohol is one of the most abused substances that causes the most harm to the most people in our country,” Zulu said.
The Minister further highlighted to delegates that research further shows that alcohol fuels crime, mortality rates and fatal injuries, and contributes to the unacceptably high levels of vehicle crashes in South Africa.
At the same time, she said, alcohol significantly contributes to gender-based violence and risky sexual behaviours associated with sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
The Minister added that time and again, the quarterly crime statistics show that alcohol abuse is one of the main contributors to crime around the country.
She said that government is concerned about the emerging trends among young people of mixing alcohol with energy drinks.
“In the face of these growing challenges, our people have demanded that government take necessary measures to address the harmful use of alcohol.
“I must acknowledge that this has not been the easiest of tasks. Any measures to prevent and reduce alcohol harm has been met with a monumental and well-resourced push back that seem to put commercial interests before people from the alcohol industry.”
The Minister emphasised that government’s objective is to regulate the sale and supply of alcohol to the public, not motivated by revenue collection, but rather by purely by the interests of public health and wellbeing, with the particular purposes of protecting children and young people, reducing alcohol consumption, and preventing violent crime and other forms of alcohol related harm.
She said this objective arises from the overwhelming evidence of significant harm to individuals and society caused by the harmful use of alcohol. –SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 15:42
0 views
Kubayi leads SA delegation to Ghana
Kubayi leads SA delegation to Ghana
Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, is leading a government and business delegation on an official visit to the Republic of Ghana to participate in government-to-business engagements focused on creating an environment for investment conducive for affordable housing development.
The high-level engagements between the Ghanaian and South African government, which get underway from 25-27 October 2023, will focus on policy and technical exchanges, including a bilateral between Kubayi and the host Minister of Works and Housing, Francis Asenso- Boakye, to review areas of mutual interest.
“The visit will contribute to the strengthening of partnerships between South Africa and Ghana's business sector, while promoting South Africa’s capabilities and policy expertise in the development of human settlements and infrastructure development in general,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 12:48
104 views
Badgers Power Up Against Titans In Tshwane
JOHANNESBURG: The Six Gun Grill Garden Route Badgers claimed victory at SuperSport Park this past weekend, defeating the Fidelity Titans...
New State-of-the-art Primary Healthcare Clinic to Meet Growing Health Demands in Botleng Extension 6
As part of GE Vernova's (https://www.GEVernova.com/) commitment to support communities in areas it operates in, GE Vernova's Steam Power business, is proud to announce the handover of the Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre, a first-of-its-kind primary healthcare facility in Delmas, Mpumalanga, South Africa. The clinic was officially handed over to the Mpumalanga Department of Health and marked by an official opening ceremony in Nkangala District of Victor Khanye Local Municipality.
The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents an approximated R75 million investment towards the turnkey construction and full equipment kitting of the clinic in efforts to uplift the local healthcare infrastructure. The clinic will play a critical role in meeting the growing healthcare demands of the community and its surrounding areas. Up to 100 000 local beneficiaries will have access to comprehensive primary healthcare services including 24-hour emergency care, maternity, dentistry, eyecare, medical dispensary, and mental healthcare services.
While Botleng Extension 6, part of a rapidly growing settlement in Victor Khanye Local Municipality was being serviced by a mobile clinic with restricted services that visits the area twice a week, the new clinic will alleviate the community's burden of travelling great distances to access quality healthcare services. The state-of-the-art facility boasts of a cutting-edge maternity ward equipped with premium GE Healthcare ultrasound/V-scan equipment, ensuring precision healthcare for expectant mothers and their babies. In addition to this, GE Healthcare will roll-out technical, clinical, and soft skills training programmes for nurses and midwives at the clinic, enhancing the quality of healthcare services.
Premier of Mpumalanga, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane expressed the provincial government's gratitude for this significant contribution to the healthcare infrastructure in the region. "This facility will be heralded and safeguarded by generations to come. Not only has it exceeded our standard infrastructural requirements but should be used as a benchmark for public service and infrastructural excellence," Mtshweni-Tsipane stated. "Thank you for leading by example and being a prime example of how private public partnerships can significantly aid our efforts and serve as catalysts for sustainable employment opportunity creation in our communities."
In line with its continuous strategy to empower local businesses, GE Vernova's Steam Power business supported local businesses and communities throughout the construction process where GVK-Siyazama Construction served as the principal contractor, overseeing construction activities. A minimum of 30% of the work was sub-contracted to local Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), and the general workforce was sourced entirely from the local community and empowered through accredited trade and skills development trainings. It was critical for the clinic's design approach to incorporate ecologically conscious solutions like rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient fittings and low maintenance landscaping throughout the construction process.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Emmanuel Thouet, GE Vernova's Steam Power SSA Regional Leader, expressed the company's commitment to driving social change through public-private partnerships. " Over the years, large infrastructure projects have provided us opportunities to create jobs and develop the critical skills needed to drive continuous growth in the energy sector. We recognize that for us to make a sustainable impact, we must be deliberate in our efforts to support social change," he stated. "Through our expertise and innovation, we are able to address social challenges by creating shared value. We are proud to be part of this transformative project that will significantly improve the social and economic vitality of the Botleng Extension 6 community."
Zandile Shange, Eskom General Manager for Kusile Power Plant Project, expressed her enthusiasm for the community-centric partnership Eskom enjoys with GE Vernova's Steam Power business in delivering this essential healthcare facility. " Health and wellness are fundamental human rights for all South Africans," Shange said. "The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents a crucial step in providing accessible healthcare services to the people of this region. We are proud to be part of this initiative, which aligns with our mission to support the well-being of our communities and in accordance with one of our core values, ‘Sinobuntu'."
The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between industry leaders, government agencies, and the community to address critical healthcare needs and uplift local communities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GE.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Kashumba Macombe
Middle East & Africa Content Creation & Communications Specialist
GE Vernova
+27 71 372 3110
Kashumba.Macombe@ge.com
About GE Vernova:
GE Vernova is a planned, purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses of Advanced Research, Consulting Services, and Financial Services. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world's challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with more than 80,000 employees across 140+ countries around the world. GE Vernova's Steam Power business provides a broad portfolio of technologies and services that help industrial and non-renewable energy power plants deliver reliable power as they transition to a lower carbon future.
GE Vernova's mission is embedded in its name –it retains its legacy, “GE,” as an enduring and hard-earned badge of quality and ingenuity. “Ver” / “verde” signal Earth's verdant and lush ecosystems. “Nova,” from the Latin “novus,” nods to a new, innovative era of lower carbon energy. Supported by the Company Purpose,The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova will help deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: GE Vernova (https://www.GEVernova.com/) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3Qc09j6).
Mashatile to address National House of Traditional Leaders gathering
Mashatile to address National House of Traditional Leaders gathering
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to participate and speak at a gathering convened by the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders.
According to the Presidency, he will meet with the leaders as Chairperson of the inter-ministerial task team on matters of traditional and Khoi-San leaders, at the Ilanga Estate, Bloemfontein, Free State, on Tuesday, 24 October.
The 2023 Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Xivijo, will focus on promoting development and social cohesion in traditional communities through cooperation with government and the private sector.
The meeting will emphasise the purpose and objective of building cohesive communities driven by the vision for development, Ubuntu and self-sustainability.
Xivijo is a Xitsonga expression of a gathering, usually called by the traditional leadership.
Representatives of the National, Provincial and Local Houses of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa), the Royal Leaders of South Africa (Rolesa), National Khoi-San Council, government and private sector representatives are expected to attend the gathering.
The aim, the Presidency said, is to engage on all matters affecting the institution of traditional leadership and its contribution to rural development.
“Established by the President, the inter-ministerial task team led by Deputy President Mashatile, will during this candid session, present progress reports on work carried out by various work streams led by Cabinet Ministers in addressing issues raised by the traditional leadership.”
This programme will include progress achieved in several areas including:
• Advancing land ownership, tenure rights and fast-tracking socio-economic development of rural communities.
• Building institutional capacity and ensuring support to traditional and Khoi-San leaders.
• Advancing infrastructure investment and skills development in rural communities.
• Promoting unity, social cohesion and nation-building in rural communities.
• Fast-tracking the finalisation of policy, legislative and constitutional matters.
“Government is committed to work together with the institution of traditional leadership in addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the country and it is also dedicated to strengthening the significant role they play, in the reconstruction and development of the country, especially in rural areas,” said the Presidency.
The Deputy President will be accompanied by Cabinet Ministers, Free State Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana, and senior government officials. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 09:37
486 views
Inter-faith community called on to encourage crime afflicted communities
Inter-faith community called on to help crime afflicted communities
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has reiterated the call to the inter-faith community to continue praying for all communities afflicted by crime, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), rape and murder.
“It is my view that crime prevention cannot be left to be the responsibility of government alone. Let us all hold hands and work together,” Dube-Ncube said.
Dube-Ncube made the call during the Provincial Youth Committee Gospel Arts and Culture Competition, held in Mthwalume, South Coast on Sunday. Participants in the competition showcased their talents and competitive spirit in gospel music, arts and culture.
The Premier said violence meted out against women in particular, is a shame and is a threat to all social cohesion and nation-building efforts.
“Today’s event reminds us that our communities are plagued by the scourge of GBVF and Crime in general. Crime here in the Mthwalume area in recent years and GBVF in particular has been a major worry.
“While the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele has assured me that the crimes of murder especially GBVF are being attended to, I urge the community to work closely with the SAPS [South African Police Service] to do everything to address all the sources of crime in this area and in the rest of the province,” she said.
The Premier said the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), places power in the hands of artists.
“With access to technology artists can now interact directly with their audience, create songs and post to all streaming platforms without the help of a manager or record label. This can take place whether you are Johannesburg or New York or even in a backroom here in Mthwalume.
“While the labels and record companies still do have a place, artists are now positioned better to attract success before labels get to them. Today’s event is therefore more than just entertainment or competition, but is an opportunity to minister, and also to provide economic empowerment opportunities in music and the performing arts to artists from all over our province,” the Premier said.
She added that bringing a gospel competition to Mthwalume is a demonstration that gospel music, which is one of the most popular genres in South Africa, belongs to the people. She said it underlines her belief that development of rural areas is as important as addressing the issue of services in rural areas. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 09:51
402 views
KZN South Coast retains title of ‘highest number of Blue Flag Beaches in KZN’!
Tourism on the KZN South Coast has received another boost with the announcement on Friday (20 October 2023) that the region has retained its position as having the highest number of Blue Flag Beaches in the province. “We are delighted that the KZN South Coast has, once again, shown it’s a premier seaside destination that …
Government activities for the week, 23 – 27 October 2023
Government activities for the week, 23 - 27 October 2023
Government has scheduled the following briefings/activities for the week: 23 to 27 October 2023.
From Tuesday, 24 October, to Thursday, 26 October, South Africa will host the 7th Global Alcohol Policy Conference at the Cape Town Convention Centre in Cape Town.
On Tuesday, 24 October, the Electoral Commission will launch the 2024 National and Provincial Elections from 10:00 at the Ballroom, Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.
From Tuesday, 24 October, to Thursday, 26 October, Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, will host the BRICS Tourism Ministers meeting in Cape Town.
From Tuesday, 24 October, to Friday, 27 October, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies will host the National Digital and Future Skills Conference at the East London ICC in the Eastern Cape.
Janine
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 10:07
453 views
Mompati Mall opens in Vryburg on 26 October
Mompati Mall is set to transform Vryburg in the North West province with its brand-new shopping experience that will launch to the public on 26 October 2023 with a spectacular grand opening. Vryburg’s very first mall, the ground-breaking new 22 700sqm shopping centre development by Twin City, is set to be a retail game-changer, introducing …
Zahir Vallie’s Z-Prop Plans to Invest Bigger in South Africa Real Estate
Zahir Vallie’s Z-PROP plans to go aggressive on the South African real estate market. While capitalizing on current conditions, it has decided to offer personalized services and a wide range of properties. Cape Town, SA, October 13, 2023 – Zahir Vallie, founder of Z-PROP, has made a distinctive name in the South African real estate …
Green shoots in resolving the energy crisis
Green shoots in resolving the energy crisis
South Africa is beginning to turn the corner in resolving the energy crisis.
This according to Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who was briefing the media on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan in Pretoria on Monday.
Improved performance of Eskom’s generating fleet meant the suspension of load shedding over the past weekend and much lower stages of the planned power outages during the week.
“We have turned the corner, although we are not out of the woods yet. We are beginning to show sustained improved performance over an extended period of time and this is good news in that it’s an affirmation and validation of the work that the team is doing at Eskom,” he said.
The Minister said the intensification of maintenance plans at Eskom are beginning to have a positive impact despite a difficult period in September when load shedding was intensified as a result of maintenance outages.
These maintenance outages are aimed at reducing the incidence of generating units tripping on their own and improving performance.
“These plans that have been put into motion are beginning to bear fruit. I did indicate some time ago when we were experiencing heightened levels of load shedding Stage 6, that essentially what we are dealing with is short term pain which is going to result in long term gain and we are beginning to see the kinds of gains that I was referring to.
“Our actions are deliberate. We are going to invest a lot of our efforts to ensure that we are able to maintain the units,” he said.
Ramokgopa insisted that both Eskom and the department will not show any signs of complacency going forward.
“It’s important that we shouldn’t be complacent and we have never been complacent…even when are beginning to see … green shoots. I think what that does is just bolster and raise the morale of the team to ensure that we even achieved greater results and we are able to save the South African economy.
“We introduced these interventions when we came into office, after the President appointed and sat with the team and thought the best way of getting out of this situation is to ensure that we make these investments into these units. What are the results - when the units come back, they remain on load for the longest period of hours.
“Essentially we have undermined the rate and frequency of failure of these units. We have improved on their efficiency. They are beginning to produce more… closer to their design capacity. This is not by accident. It’s not some intervention that comes from a place that is unknown. It is simple engineering and we really want to commend the team,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 11:10
185 views