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With Spring officially approaching, we are all in need of the perfect sandal, a statement shoe style that works just as well for our busy mornings and the activities after. For a spring wardrobe reset, consider starting from the ground up. Footwear is one of the easiest ways to transition your style from winter to …
Dr Velenkosini Matsebula is a Senior Lecturer in Development Finance at Stellenbosch Business School. As we enter the final quarter of 2023 and closer to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), marked by unprecedented technological advancement and global interconnectivity, we must acknowledge a stark reality: extreme poverty persists. While we commemorate the International Day of the …
Cape Town, October 17, 2023 – In a commitment to improving healthcare accessibility, Zarcare, a prominent telemedicine provider, has partnered with the University of the Western Cape to present a free online health talk aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer. This event is taking place this coming Saturday, October 21, 2023. The session aims …
Rehabilitation counselling services, or rehab, is a critical step on the path to recovery for individuals grappling with substance abuse, addiction, or various mental health challenges. In South Africa, rehab centres play a crucial role in helping people overcome these hurdles and rebuild their lives. Let’s delve into the rehab process, understanding how it unfolds …
Safeguarding the future of those who teach
While one may no longer remember the name of the classroom teacher’s pet, chances are that one will never forget the name of that special teacher who changed the course of one’s life.
While we grow up to leave our school tomfooleries behind, teachers continue to leave an indelible mark in the lives of pupils.
“Passionate teachers often inspire and motivate their students. Passion for the subject matter and a genuine interest in the well-being of students can greatly impact the effectiveness of teaching,” said acting Chief Director of Education Human Resource Development at the Department of Basic Education, Lala Maje.
While teachers work hard to shape learners into the adults of tomorrow, who is helping newly qualified teachers to transition into the classroom environment?
This is where the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) New Teacher Induction Programme (NTIP) comes in.
The programme is intended to support new teachers who are placed in schools within their first two years of permanent employment.
“NTIP is a programme that introduces the new teacher to the teaching profession, to the resources available, to the support that the DBE and all stakeholders avail to the teachers,” said Maje.
Teachers have to register on the learning management system for the programme. The one-year programme comprises seven modules that are linked to the Professional Teaching Standards.
The Professional Teaching Standards and the Ethical Teaching Standards forms the basis of teaching being a profession and that is managed and guided by the South African Council of Educators (SACE).
A teacher must register with SACE before they can practice in schools.
The programme also supports SACE in ensuring that Professional Teaching Standards and the code of ethics are infused in the daily life of teachers,” said Maje.
The induction is based on four pillars namely mentoring, training, professional development and peer support.
The programme was set up after the Teacher Education Summit held by the DBE and the Department of Higher Education and Training in 2009.
Since its inception in 2017, the partnership between the DBE and Flemish Association for Development Cooperation and Technical Assistance (VVOB) has enabled the development of material and programmes which led to the 2020 school calendar year pilot of the programme.
The DBE has also worked with provincial education departments and partnered with the SACE, JET Education Services, the North-West University and the University of Witwatersrand to develop the programme for all new teachers that join the teaching profession.
Support
New teachers are also provided with mentors that are identified by their respective schools.
Feedback received is that teachers are appreciative of the support provided by the programme.
“The teachers find that the topics covered assist them to deal with a number of issues, classroom management, discipline in school and classrooms, diversity management, inclusive teaching, as well as work and life balance, to mention but a few. Teachers want the programme, it provides real life practical experience and examples,” said Maje.
She added that while all the provinces have been supporting new teachers, this was not standardised.
“All provinces have been supporting new teachers; it was just not standardised at national. The support was in the form of workshops on curriculum, on general human resource matters, many webinars on teacher wellbeing and wellness.
“There was no national programme that a teacher can register and complete with evidence that indeed the new teacher underwent an induction programme. The DBE then partnered with VVOB to design a thoroughly researched programme and make it available for new teachers for free.”
Progress
The programme is being implemented on a phased in approach.
“Since the 2020 pilot, there was a round table in March 2023 where a decision was [taken] that the programme be phased in in four provinces [namely the] Free State, North West, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
“The other five provinces are implementing however not under the tight monitoring of DBE. This is allowing them to be fully ready when we implement in their provinces in 2024,” she explained.
She added that the provincial education departments are part of the interprovincial meetings that DBE holds with the nine provinces on a monthly basis.
“It should also be noted that all provinces are supporting new teachers. The difference with the model brought by the DBE is [a] common standard across all provincial education departments, as well as the fact that the NTIP model has four pillars.”
Teachers’ Month
In South Africa October is Teachers’ Month and on 5 October, the country joined the world in commemorating World Teachers’ Day.
The day which is commemorated annually, aims to raise awareness, understanding and appreciation for the vital contribution that teachers make to education and development across the globe.
The day has been declared jointly by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to celebrate the critical work that teachers do.
At the National Teachers’ Awards, held on World Teachers’ Day, the South African government reaffirmed its commitment to reinforcing teacher support and prioritising the professional growth of those who are the key drivers of basic education.
“Such a posture is critical in that it boosts their personal prowess and propels our schools towards unparalleled achievements. The wellness of all public servants in the Department of Basic Education must as such remain a priority,” Deputy President Paul Mashatile said at the 23rd edition of the awards.
The awards honour teachers who have demonstrated exceptional performance and commitment in different areas of their work.
Recognition and experience
Maje who was a teacher herself, said recognition for teachers is essential not only for morale but also for attracting and retaining talented individuals in the teaching profession.
“When teachers feel valued and supported, they are more likely to be motivated, innovative, and dedicated to their students' success.”
Speaking at a media briefing earlier this month, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said that education plays a critical role in providing the country with critical skills that will enable economic growth while also fighting poverty and unemployment.
“Teachers are at the centre of this critical imperative. UNESCO repeatedly stated that the quality of any education system is as good as the quality of its teachers. The continuous improvements that we have experienced within our education system broadly and in our schooling in particular is largely due to the efforts and sacrifices of our teachers,” said the Minister.
The Minister said while the education system is experiencing severe challenges including backlogs in infrastructure development, overcrowding and shortage of other educational resources, “it is our teachers who have made the center to hold.”
Maje said efforts to enhance the recognition of teachers often involve a combination of policy changes, increased investment in education, and societal shifts in perception. She also referred to the Integrated Strategic Planning Framework for Teacher Education and Development. The primary outcome of the plan is to improve the quality of teacher education and development in order to improve the quality of teachers and teaching.
Planning and organising things in time are some of the lessons Maje has learned over the course of the years as a teacher.
She also notes “the knowledge that as a teacher you determine the future of the country with the content that you offer to the young minds.” She further adds that “the limitations of the teacher can be detrimental to development of the young mind.”
It is also important for teachers to keep learning all the time since knowledge is evolving and for them to be active participants in the matters of their respective communities.
Maje also called on teachers to take care of themselves.
“Achieving a work-life balance is an ongoing challenge for many teachers. Learning to prioritise self-care and maintaining a healthy balance between personal and professional life is important for sustained success in the field.”
While learner support is a critical ingredient for success, support for future unforgettable teachers is equally as important. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 09:59
Imtiaz Sooliman calls for negotiations and compromise. “The only way to solve the problem is to do what is just.”
Lamola calls for end to violence in Israel-Palestine
Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola, has called for the urgent cessation of violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Lamola was addressing the 61st annual meeting of the Asian African Legal Consultative Organisation (AALCO) in Bali.
The most recent uptick in violence has been ongoing for about 10 days and follows a long standing conflict whose origins can be traced to the proclamation of the State of Israel in 1948.
“At the outset, we wish to express our condolences to all victims of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The atrocities committed against civilian populations are causing great concern, and we urgently call for an immediate cessation of violence from all parties involved.
“Our primary concern is the urgent humanitarian assistance those affected require, and we implore that all basic life-supporting necessities be provided to alleviate their suffering,” he said.
Lamola warned that delays in resolving the deadly conflict have “led to an unending cycle of unspeakable atrocities and human rights violations”.
SA's foreign policy
Lamola told the meeting that “supporting Palestinian nationhood” has been a part of government’s foreign policy since the dawn of democracy.
“South Africa’s foreign policy aims to promote a viable and sustainable peace plan for the Middle East, wherein Palestine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic viability are secured, and there is sovereign equality between Palestine and Israel.
“As a matter of international law, the principle of self-determination for the Palestinian people is widely recognised and enshrined in various international covenants, instruments, and the United Nations Charter.
“South Africa’s policy position on the Israeli-Palestine conflict aligns with the Oslo Accords, the Roadmap, and the Arab Plan 2002, recognising the two-State option as the only viable solution,” he said.
The Minister called on members of AALCO to work together to find a “permanent solution to the conflict, in accordance with relevant United Nations resolutions, international law, and internationally agreed parameters”.
“As global citizens, we envision a world where every nation adheres to international law and collaborates to promote peaceful coexistence. Achieving this noble goal requires collective effort from all of us.
“As members of the international community, we have a responsibility to take action whenever we observe any violations of international law or impediments to peace. However, we cannot attain this objective alone. We must work in unison and extend support to each other,” Lamola said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 10:45
Pandor clarifies content of her discussion with Hamas leader
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed on Tuesday that Minister Naledi Pandor received a request to call the Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh to discuss getting humanitarian aid to Palestine.
“During the call, and in line with the government's position, Minister Pandor reiterated South Africa’s solidarity and support for the people of Palestine and expressed sadness and regret for the loss of innocent lives, both Palestinians and Israelis.
“Minister Pandor and the Hamas leader discussed how to get the necessary humanitarian aid to Gaza and other parts of the Palestinian territories,” the statement read.
However, according to the department, reports that Pandor also offered support for the ‘Battle of Al-Aqsa Flood’ are untrue and meant to “impugn” the Minister and the South African government.
“Minister Pandor’s call with the Hamas leader is in line with South Africa's readiness to engage all interlocutors as part of facilitating dialogue to end the ongoing conflict. South Africa, therefore, calls on all sides to seize the opportunity for peace as opposed to violence, and for the international community to actively advocate for the implementation of its own international resolutions and establish a credible peace process.”
Meanwhile, according to the department, South Africa stands ready to share its experience in mediation and conflict resolution as it has done on the continent and around the world.
According to the latest reports, about 2 808 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli air raids, while Israelis killed in Hamas’s attack and military operation stands at about 1 400, including 286 soldiers.
President Cyril Ramaphosa used his weekly newsletter on Monday to call for an immediate cessation of acts of war between Israel and Palestine, the opening of humanitarian corridors and a United Nations-led negotiation process towards resolving the conflict.
President Ramaphosa said this must lead to a just and lasting peace that satisfies the human rights, dignity and aspirations of all the people on both sides of this conflict.
The President noted that South Africans, like many across the globe, have watched with great anguish and pain the devastating violence and destruction in Israel and Gaza since Saturday last week.
“It has never been our nature as South Africans to reserve our empathy only for those with whom we share an ethnic, racial, religious or cultural affinity.
“As South Africans, we have made it part of our national DNA to stand firm against all forms of prejudice, including racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and xenophobia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of both Palestine and Israel as they go through these difficult times,” the President said.
He said he hoped that the Israeli and Palestinian people come together, reconcile and choose the path of a just peace. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 13:55
Leading African law firm Bowmans is further strengthening its private equity presence through the appointment of Zingisa Motloba as partner in its Johannesburg office. ‘Zingisa has an impressive array of skills and experience, including an excellent understanding of risk management in ESG matters, from which our private equity clients stand to benefit’ says Ezra Davids, …
Committed to using technology for good, Samsung partners with Africam and The Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit to expand its Wildlife Watch pilot. Harnessing the technology in its Galaxy S21 Ultra and new S23 Ultra devices to broadcast live, 24/7 streams of wild animals in the Balule Nature Reserve, part of Kruger National Park. Coinciding with …
Africa can produce more energy than it requires - Minister Ramokgopa
Africa can produce more energy than it requires within the next 30 years if it takes advantage of its natural resources.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who was delivering a keynote address on Green Hydrogen at the Africa Energy Week held in Cape Town.
“We need to have a Pan African view in the exploitation of this energy carrier and our view is that by 2040 Africa can produce up to 50 times more energy from renewables than the world’s estimated demand.
“This is as a result of our location advantages. I think we have some of the radiation levels of any parts of the world and we also have some of the best wind speeds along the coastal areas,” he said.
The Minister emphasised, however, that Africa must provide its own “interpretation” on what a just energy transition constitutes.
“We have got an opportunity to define a Just Energy Transition with African characteristics and in this instance, it is about universal access, the exploitation of critical minerals that are key to development of green hydrogen and realising its potential.
“We can see that by smelting African iron ore locally, we are likely going to create much needed jobs and therefore the skills that are required to support that transition. In that way, in addition to broadening the industrial base, we are really getting people in good quality jobs…this is in addition to the decarbonisation agenda,” he said.
Honing in further on green hydrogen, Ramokgopa moved to allay fears that green hydrogen production will bear a heavy toll on South Africa’s water resources.
“It is important that in the conversation around the potential of green hydrogen, we confront what essentially is an objective inherent risk associated with the exploitation of this resource and the strain that it’s putting on our water resources.
“There’s a rich body of literature that suggests that coastal countries can use sea water to produce green hydrogen and therefore eliminating the strain that is likely it’s likely going to place on limited water resources...especially countries like South Africa where water is a scarce commodity,” he said.
The Minister explained that Sub-Saharan Africa’s resources have the capacity to “produce anything between 5000 and 13 000 million tonnes per year” of green hydrogen.
“We think that could come at about $2 per kilogram…essentially by 2050 and therefore making green hydrogen financially competitive compared to other energy sources.
“I did make the point that it could also contribute significantly to the national revenue funds of many African countries of up to $20 billion and that could distributed to ensure that we are able to expand on social infrastructure, improve the quality of life of our people and ensure that we put Africa on a pedestal for significant growth going into the future,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 15:29
Durban to host official BRICS Games 2023 opening ceremony this afternoon
The National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in collaboration with the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government will host the 5th BRICS Games official opening ceremony today.
The ceremony will take place at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban.
The latest edition of the 2023 BRICS Games will see young athletes aged between 19 and 21 across BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) nations battling for various honours within five sporting codes.
These include swimming, badminton, table tennis, tennis and beach volleyball.
The games will be played simultaneously across Kings Park Swimming Pool, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Curro Hillcrest High School and Bay of Plenty from October 18 to 21.
“Following the BRICS leaders’ recommendation, the 2023 BRICS Games will be an expanded championship programme which will see more sporting and the inclusion of Paralympians in the code of tennis for the first time at the games.
“The opening ceremony will officially unveil competing teams from all the BRICS nations.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 10:47
Minister welcomes return of Kusile Unit 1
The Ministry of Electricity says the return to service of unit 1 at Kusile Power Station marks a critical milestone in the quest to "recover South Africa’s economy”.
Eskom on Monday announced that the unit had returned to service a month and a half ahead of schedule since it was taken offline late last year.
The ministry said the Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has welcomed the development.
“The return of the unit, which had been out of commission, together with unit 2 and 3 since August 2022 following safety concerns with the structural integrity of the stack, comes two months ahead of schedule and adds 800MW onto the grid.
“This marks significant overall improvements to generation performance with Kusile Unit 3, which came back online on 29 September 2023, also returning back to service two months ahead of schedule.
“The third of the units (Unit 2) is now expected to similarly return to service in November 2023, whilst Unit 5 will come into commercial operation in December 2023,” the statement read.
The Ministry highlighted the impact that the return of the unit will have.
“The return of the Kusile units represents a critical milestone in our quest to recover South Africa’s economy, protect jobs, advance universal access and improve the quality of life.
“The Minister remains focused on bolstering the country’s electricity generating capacity by giving accelerated attention to the expansion and strengthening of transmission infrastructure to accommodate new renewable generation capacity.
“The Minister congratulates Eskom’s Generation team for the sterling hard work to bring back stability and credibility to the Eskom generation fleet and reducing the intensity and severity of load shedding,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 10:58
In our fast-paced modern society, where change is a constant and innovation is imperative, good corporate governance should not just be a set of static rules. It should be a dynamic service that fuels success. According to Bushra Razack, the CEO of Philippi Village, an organisation that provides a safe space and opportunities for local …
Cabinet’s concurrence of the Tourism Sector Masterplan welcomed
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has welcomed Cabinet’s concurrence of the Tourism Sector Masterplan, which was gazetted on Friday.
“Implementing the masterplan will create opportunities for inclusive participation of all sectors of society, including women, youth and people with disabilities. This plan also gives impetus to the recovery and sustained growth of the sector,” said de Lille.
Due to its multiplier effect, labour intensity and value chain that creates significant employment opportunities, tourism is recognised as a priority sector of the South African economy.
The sector’s interlinkages with other economic sectors provides business opportunities for Small, Micro to Medium Enterprises, which is why it was identified as one of seven key sectors in South Africa's Re-Imagining Industrial Strategy, approved by Cabinet in 2019.
This is the basis upon which the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan (TSRP) was converted into a comprehensive Tourism Sector Masterplan.
The conversion of the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan into the Tourism Sector Masterplan was one of the key priorities given to Minister de Lille by President Cyril Ramaphosa as part of her performance agreement. This priority has now been achieved, said the department.
“The masterplan aims to galvanise industry, labour and government to collectively act on a shared vision, identify priorities, and deliver economic activity and jobs for all South Africans,” de Lille said.
As the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan has a lifespan of three years, from 2021/22 to 2023/24.
The department had embarked on a process to convert the TSRP into the Tourism Sector Masterplan. “This entailed the integration of all TSRP interventions into the Tourism Sector Masterplan, with the extension of the timeframe for implementation up to the 2025/26 financial year,” the Minister said.
Additionally, the vision, mission, guiding principles and values of the National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS) 2016 – 2026 were adopted.
Institutional and governance responsibilities for developing and implementing the masterplan were added in accordance with the masterplan guidelines to prepare, develop and implementation of the masterplan.
The TSRP was a three-year, highly focussed intervention and product of collaboration with key stakeholders from the government, the private sector and other social partners aimed at mitigating the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism economy and charting a roadmap for recovery.
It proposed various measures to protect and rejuvenate supply, reignite demand and strengthen enabling capability for tourism recovery.
Overall, the plan proposed seven strategic interventions underpinned by specific actions aimed at helping the sector recover to pre-pandemic levels and positioning the sector for long-term sustainable growth.
The plan is aligned to the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP), in particular to the ERRP's priorities in the areas of employment creation, infrastructure investment, green economy or sustainability interventions inclusion of women and youth as well as skills development.
The Tourism Sector Masterplan is available on the department’s website at: www.tourism.gov.za and a copy of the gazette can also be viewed on: https://www.tourism.gov.za/AboutNDT/Publications/Government%20Gazette%20Number%2049503%20-%20Tourism%20Sector%20Masterplan.pdf. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 10:54
Sony Unveils INZONE Buds – Truly Wireless Gaming Earbuds with the Industry’s Longest Battery Life[i], Advised by Fnatic INZONE Buds join the acclaimed INZONE range as its first truly wireless gaming earbuds, bringing the industry’s longest 12-hour battery life1 with less than 30ms low latency. Also introducing the lightweight INZONE H5 wireless headset and a …
Johannesburg, South Africa, 16 October 2023 – Southern Sun is excited to announce that Southern Sun Rosebank will be hosting an exclusive Wine Tasting Experience following the 27th Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards. This prestigious event, scheduled for the weekend of 10 and 11 November, promises an unforgettable journey through a remarkable selection of …
Berlin/Cape Town/Zug – October 2023 – UBUNATION, a dynamic community and platform driven by compassion, kindness, and respect for others, is thrilled to unveil its inaugural campaign and collection in partnership with the We Love Football Academy (WLFA). WLFA, a non-profit organization headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa, is dedicated to empowering youth for a …
South Africa's women's sevens team can look forward to their first-ever Olympics Games after winning the Rugby Africa Women's Sevens regional qualifying tournament in Tunisia.
Kenya pushed them all the way in the final in Monastir as they looked to book their place at a third Olympics having previously represented the region in Rio and Tokyo.
But the Lionesses came up just short, losing 12-7, and will now have to try their luck in the repechage – along with third place Uganda – in a bid to maintain their ever-present record.
Nadine Roos starred for South Africa throughout the two-day event, scoring nine tries and kicking 10 conversions including her side's first try in the final.
South Africa breezed through day one with comfortable wins against Zimbabwe (26-0), Uganda (19-0) and Tunisia (27-7) with Roos contributing 37 of their points.
A Roos hat-trick on day two then helped the Springbok Women's Sevens to beat Zambia 31-0 in the semi-final and set up a date with Kenya.
The Lionesses had kicked off their campaign with two big wins against Zambia and Ghana, scoring 68 points without reply, but nearly came unstuck against Madagascar in their final pool match, edging a tight contest 20-17.
Dennis Mwanja's charges had a far easier ride in the semi-final, beating Uganda 27-0, and went into the final with real confidence.
However, Kenya found themselves 5-0 behind at half-time with Roos' unconverted try the only thing separating the teams.
Sharon Auma then gave Kenya hope when she levelled the scores, Grace Okulu converting to send them into a 7-5 lead.
But Maria Thshiremba had the final say for South Africa when she scored from a set piece move, Roos adding the conversion to make it 12-7.
"A GREAT FEELING"
South Africa head coach Renfred Dazel said he was delighted for the players that they were able to create history and finally qualify for the Olympics.
“I feel so happy for the players who worked so hard to achieve this – we were denied in 2016 and 2020, but this time it is official, and it's such a great feeling,” said Dazel.
"We knew Kenya was going to be a tough opponent and I told the players that defence will win us this one. We did really well in the first half, but could not convert all our pressure into points, so when they took the lead in the second half, we had to fight hard.
“But once again, like in the Challenger Series final, we had the fight in us for the win and it was a great comeback.”
The Springbok Women's Sevens team earlier in the year secured core status on the revamped HSBC SVNS after winning the Challenger Series in Stellenbosch, and Dazel said qualifying for the Olympic Games will further boost their profile.
“It is huge for our system and it is huge for women's rugby in the country overall,” he said.
“There will be more opportunities now for girls to come and play rugby, so winning this weekend was immense for the women's game. The future looks bright.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Rugby.
National Safer Festive Season campaign yields positive results
National Safer Festive Season operations have started on a high note with police in the Western Cape seizing R75 million worth of counterfeit goods and R200 000 in cash from a shopping centre in Bellville, Cape Town.
The counterfeit goods raid, led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), took place on Saturday as SAPS rolled out its nationwide Safer Festive Season operations.
Through heightened visibility, police are intensifying operations to deal decisively with crime. Regular roadblocks, stop and searches, as well as the tracing of wanted suspects are being intensified as the SAPS ushers in the busy festive period.
In the Western Cape, the Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele, handed over 36 vehicles to assist police to bolster their crime combatting efforts and heighten visibility in gang-ridden areas, where murders are prevalent.
The SAPS Safer Festive Season operational plan was rolled out on Saturday in all the provinces. The plan will see heightened focus on seven areas, which include gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), combatting of serious and violent crimes such as aggravated robberies, border security, strengthening by-laws, road safety, as well as illegal mining.
“We are not going to co-govern with criminals. We are going toe-to-toe with them. Our priority is the safety and security of all the inhabitants of this country and their property. Police officers are instructed to also sharpen their responses to the most vulnerable in society during the holiday period and beyond,” Cele said.
SAPS has also launched a service rating platform, where members of the public will now be able to rate the service they receive from all police stations across the country.
This online rating platform will allow everyone in South Africa to rate the service they receive at their local police station.
“We encourage all people to rate every single service they receive from us, so that we can have a clear picture of our performance in an effort to enhance our service offering.
“We want to win back the trust of our communities and we can only do so if we deliver and intervene if there are gaps,” said National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola.
The Rate My Service online platform will give an opportunity to members of the public to respond to a predefined questionnaire to rate the SAPS service.
This can be done as and when they interact with SAPS services or at a later stage.
SAPS hopes this project will encourage members of the public to sponsor suggestions for improved service delivery through participating in the online survey.
SAPS management is also encouraging all SAPS members to put more effort in rendering a professional, effective and efficient service at all times that the public deserves. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/16/2023 - 09:29
President Ramaphosa calls for cessation of acts of war in Israel and Palestine conflict
President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his weekly newsletter to call for an immediate cessation of acts of war between Israel and Palestine, the opening of humanitarian corridors and a UN-led negotiation process towards resolving the conflict.
President Ramaphosa said this must lead to a just and lasting peace that satisfies the human rights, dignity and aspirations of all the people on both sides of this conflict.
The President highlighted that like many people around the world, South Africans have watched with great anguish and pain the devastating violence and destruction in Israel and Gaza since Saturday last week.
“It has never been our nature as South Africans to reserve our empathy only for those with whom we share an ethnic, racial, religious or cultural affinity.
“As South Africans, we have made it part of our national DNA to stand firm against all forms of prejudice, including racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and xenophobia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of both Palestine and Israel as they go through these difficult times,” the President said.
The President bemoaned the harrowing deaths of Israeli and Palestinian civilians during this conflict.
“It has been traumatic to see the images of civilians killed, wounded and captured; of destroyed homes, and of entire neighbourhoods flattened by bombardment. The atrocities that we have witnessed since last week Saturday are the latest chapter in a painful history of suffering, oppression, occupation and conflict going back more than 75 years.
“The harrowing deaths of Israeli and Palestinian civilians is a shock to our collective humanity. While international law recognises the right of oppressed people who defend themselves to use arms as a means of struggle and defence, that right must be exercised within the bounds of the Geneva Conventions,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said the images of the killing of civilians in Israel by Hamas just over a week ago and the ongoing killing of civilians in Gaza by Israeli forces goes against the tenets of international law, which prohibits the targeting of non-combatants, especially women, the aged and children.
He expressed the country’s sadness and condolences to all those who are going through the most difficult time with their families.
“As South Africans, we are particularly filled with deep sorrow, as some who have died are South African citizens caught in this conflict.
“The sheer scale of human suffering is a grim reminder that it is civilians who bear the brunt in armed conflict and who pay the heaviest price.
“We stand firm against violence directed at civilians; against the killing of children, the elderly, the infirm and non-combatants; against the targeting of critical infrastructure such as hospitals; and against the collective punishment of civilian populations.”
The President said that the wanton attack on civilians in Israel and the siege of Gaza and the decision to forcibly expel a population of over one million people from Gaza, together with the indiscriminate use of force, lays the basis for further suffering and death on a huge scale.
“Acts of collective punishment like cutting electricity, food, water, medical and other essential supplies to civilian populations are abhorrent, as is the deliberate destruction of people’s homes.
“As South Africans, this has echoes of the collective punishment of our own people by the apartheid regime as it sought to destroy the liberation movement. It brings back painful memories, as it does for our neighbours in the region,” the President said.
He emphasised that South Africa echoes the position taken by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, that depriving civilians of goods essential for their survival is prohibited under international law.
He noted the growing concern that the current conflict may render the possibility of a sustainable peace between Israelis and Palestinians, and a two-State solution even further out of reach.
The President said reconciliation and peace is possible if there is demonstrable political will from all sides, and when ordinary citizens commit to a common, shared future.
“Without justice, there can be no peace. The cycle of violence that has been unleashed is the tragic outcome of decades of unmet and unfulfilled possibilities to peacefully solve the problem between Israelis and Palestinians.
“The international community has a responsibility to support peace and to create favourable conditions for negotiation and dialogue, and not to fan the flames of conflict. World leaders need to, and must make, a call for peace and not vengeance,” the President said.
He emphasised that the only way to bring about peace is the fulfilment of the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people to human rights, dignity and nationhood.
“It is our collective hope that the Israeli and Palestinian people come together, reconcile and choose the path of a just peace,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 10/16/2023 - 10:48
Electric Zoom, an innovative purveyor of sustainable mobility solutions, proudly unveils a stellar lineup of electric motorbikes and scooters, meticulously engineered for the discerning South African commuter. Their electric motorcycles are a harmonious blend of superior engineering and eco-consciousness, offering a green alternative for urban transportation. The range featuring the sleek “Commuter,” the robust “F-E-nix,” …
Green hydrogen economy plays prominent role in SA’s just energy transition
President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the vital role the green hydrogen economy plays in the country’s development and just energy transition.
“The hydrogen economy has a prominent role to play in our country’s just energy transition, providing employment and support to vulnerable workers, communities and small businesses.
“It has been estimated that the hydrogen economy has the potential to add 3.6% to our GDP by 2050 and approximately 370 000 jobs. We must act with purpose to harness the potential of the green hydrogen economy,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa was delivering remarks at the second iteration of South African Green Hydrogen Summit (SAGHS) in Century City, Cape Town, on Monday.
The inaugural SAGHS, held in 2022, reaffirmed South Africa as an investment destination of choice and a world leader in the green energy space. It focused on scaling up regional cooperation around green hydrogen.
This second summit aims to highlight South Africa’s exceptional potential as an early stage, large scale and low cost world-class green hydrogen production hub, and total value chain investment destination.
South Africa’s Investment Strategy, approved by Cabinet earlier this year, lists green hydrogen as one of the big frontier strategic sectors expected to attract foreign and domestic direct investment.
The President emphasised the nation’s goal to position itself as a globally competitive player in this dynamic and growing industry.
The President noted that 64 countries, accounting for 89% of global emissions, have announced net zero targets by 2050. He further said that is anticipated that global green hydrogen demand will increase sevenfold by 2050.
He said that for the world to limit global warming to less than 1.5 degrees Celsius, green hydrogen will need to constitute 10% to 20% of the global energy mix.
“South Africa has committed to ambitious emission reduction targets. Our own estimates indicate that green hydrogen has the potential to remove 10% to 15% of our domestic emissions and contribute to our nation’s long-term energy security,” he said.
Green Hydrogen Alliance
The President acknowledged the collaboration efforts being made through the African Green Hydrogen Alliance, which includes Egypt, Kenya, Mauritania, Morocco, Namibia, Ethiopia, Angola and South Africa.
The alliance aims to harness Africa’s potential in developing green hydrogen industries. It aims to make joint calls for technical support, funding and market access to international public and private sector partners.
“The inaugural summit laid a strong policy foundation. This year’s summit has a dedicated project focus, providing an opportunity to demonstrate the degree to which projects have matured and advanced. This is also an opportunity to demonstrate technological developments and advancements in the green hydrogen space.
“Close cooperation between public, private and financial partners will be key to unlocking Africa’s green hydrogen potential. This will enable mass-scale domestic and international demand for green hydrogen, and increase cooperation on green hydrogen production, storage and distribution infrastructure,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President emphasised that if investment is significantly scaled-up, green hydrogen can deliver the equivalent of more than one third of Africa’s current energy consumption, increase the collective GDP, improve clean water supply and empower communities.
He said proper planning, regulation and incentive schemes are critical to mobilise private sector investment.
“South Africa has deep capital markets, with world-class conditions for generating renewable energy through solar and wind power, which are key drivers of the production of green hydrogen.
“Funding green hydrogen projects will require innovative financing structures sourced from multiple stakeholders,” President Ramaphosa said.
Building the green hydrogen industry
In June 2023, South Africa concluded a Heads of Agreement with the intention to launch the SA-H2 Fund. This is an innovative blended finance fund that will facilitate the development of a green hydrogen sector and circular economy in South Africa.
SA-H2 aims to secure $1 billion in funding raised directly in South Africa or via indirect channels. The Fund is a partnership of private and public enterprises, locally and globally.
Since the last Summit, the President said advances have been made towards building the green hydrogen industry in the country.
These include a Joint Declaration of Intent with the German government, focusing on market access, off-take opportunities and value-additive benefits in the production of green steel and green fertiliser.
South Africa has also signed a MOU with the Netherlands as an off-taker for green hydrogen derivative products.
“It is encouraging to note that a Memorandum of Cooperation will be signed at this conference by three multinationals in the green hydrogen mobility space, namely Sasol, Anglo American and BMW.
“Sasol will serve as a supplier to Anglo and BMW as part of their focus on commercial and passenger fleet transformation. These are important initiatives within the context of carbon border adjustment mechanisms,” the President said.
He thanked all the partners and sponsors that have made this summit possible. He sent a special mention to Anglo American, BMW, Sasol, the Industrial Development Corporation and GIZ.
“I wish business and government delegations at this summit well as we work to shape Africa’s green hydrogen agenda for the benefit of our economies and societies, now and into the future,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 10/16/2023 - 13:20
Celebrating its fourth anniversary on World Food Day, leading food rescue and hunger relief organisation SA Harvest reflects on its remarkable achievements over the past four years. This milestone coincides with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation’s (FAO) theme of ‘Water is Food, Water is Life,’ a message that resonates deeply with SA Harvest’s …