Host of international T20 stars to disappear under the hammer at Betway SA20 Season 2 auction
Kane Richardson, Colin de Grandhomme, Robin Uthappa, Angelo Mathews among the players on the list Friday, 15 September 2023: Australian...
South Africa
Uber Eats Announces the Launch of its First-ever Merchant Awards
In the spirit of celebrating South African Heritage Month and its 7th birthday, Uber Eats is thrilled to announce the launch of the first-ever Uber Eats Merchant Awards in South Africa. The Awards will take place in October and will seek to recognise small, medium and large restaurant businesses as well as new vertical merchants …
In-form Desta set to shine at the Absa DASH YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K
Following her win at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K in August this year, Ethiopia’s 18-year-old Debash Desta has now set her sights on the final leg of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K that will take place on National Heritage Day (Sunday 24 September). Desta showcased …
Unlocking Cash Flow: 5 Strategies for SMEs to Fuel Growth
Keeping your business’s cash flow in check is a fundamental skill for any business owner looking to secure long-term financial success. But, let’s face it, it can be a real headache for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), not only in South Africa but the world over. A recent study by Intuit showed that a whopping …
Illegal miners to appear before Sabie Magistrate’s Court
Illegal miners to appear before Sabie Magistrate's Court
More than 60 suspects arrested over the weekend are expected to appear before the Sabie Magistrate's Court today on charges of illegal mining, among other things.
In total, 68 male suspects, aged between 19 and 54, were arrested in connection with illegal mining activities in Mpumalanga.
Amongst them, two were nabbed for human trafficking, meanwhile two others were charged for possession of unlicensed firearms with ammunition, while eight were nabbed for alleged kidnapping.
The successes are part of Operation Shanela in the province, which was carried out at Sabie on Saturday. All arrested suspects are facing charges relating to the contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.
According to the police report, the operation was conducted by a team consisting of members of the police from Provincial Organised Crime, members from Sabie Vispol, members from the Local Criminal Record Centre in Lydenburg, Lydenburg K-9 Unit, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Minerals and Resources, personnel from the Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and guards from Phoenix Security and Amandla Security.
An operation was carried out after a victim from Lesotho came to the Sabie police station last month to report a case of kidnapping.
An investigation was thoroughly conducted and information was gathered. The investigating team coordinated and executed a sting operation in the early hours on Saturday.
When members arrived at the site, they managed to arrest the alleged illegal miners, well known as 'zama zamas', where two firearms with ammunition were found amongst the suspects.
The members also nabbed eight individuals, who are suspected to have been behind the kidnapping of the Lesotho national.
A preliminary investigation by the police revealed that two of the suspects are allegedly involved in the human trafficking of people from Lesotho, who were used for illegal mining in Sabie.
Two suspects face charges of human trafficking and more charges could possibly be added against them as the investigation continues.
The investigators are adamant that there could be more criminal activities that these men might be involved in. A probe is underway, where other stakeholders are assisting to ensure that the law take its course.
The confiscated firearms will be taken for ballistic testing to determine whether they were used previously in the commission of crime.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, has commended the outstanding work that has been done by the collaborative team.
"We are very glad that not only was a huge number of suspects arrested, but two firearms were discovered.
“The issue of illegal mining is a concern in our country and we are happy that the public can see that the state, in conjunction with the private sector, is working hard to address the challenge, hence this success," she said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 09:24
780 views
Call for Johannesburg to turn “dark buildings” into decent housing for poor people
Housing collective plans march in city next month to demand housing for the poor
Call to incorporate sport into the school curriculum
Call to incorporate sport into the school curriculum
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, has called for sport to be incorporated into the school curriculum.
“School sport is the bedrock of sport development in the country. School sport and physical education are contained in the National Development Plan and are integral to development in the country,” the Minister said.
He made these remarks on Sunday as he reflected on the recently held National School Sport Indaba, which gathered sport leaders and administrators, representatives in education, international experts, government officials, former players, and activists in the sport sector under the theme: 'Towards an integrated and united school sport system'.
The Minister said the National School Sport Indaba gave impetus to the establishment of a blueprint for school sport in South Africa.
“The indaba has set the path forward for government, the sport and education sectors, and commercial, community and civil society partners to work together towards building a sustainable national school sport programme,” he said.
The indaba focused on a new theory of change, realising the need to resolve all obstacles that are in the way of an inclusive, accessible and quality school sport system in the country.
The National School Sport Indaba came to the following resolutions:
- Policy: To give effect to the collaboration agreement between the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and the Department of Basic Education through robust implementation, formal plans and monitoring of the agreement through formal practices.
- Resources: To advocate for the building of school-based sports facilities that are aligned to the broader community spatial design, to optimise the use of currently available school facilities, and encourage private public partnerships through a suitable model, which is to be investigated.
- Development pathway: Focus on getting children playing regularly. School sport must be educator-driven and build capacity across all role-players in the ecosystem through formal training programmes. Physical education should be introduced as a stand-alone subject.
- Stakeholder relationships and structures: A national macro body for school sport, supported by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the Department of Basic Education, and the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc), should be established.
- Governance and transformation: Regulate the integration of the country’s fragmented school sport system.
- SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 09:29
425 views
Last chance to warm up with PUMA and the Absa RACE YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K Team!
Jozi runners and walkers have one last chance to warm up with PUMA and the Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) JOBURG 10K Team before race day at the action-packed Absa RYC WARM UP RUN #4 fueled by PUMA NITRO that will take place on Thursday, 21 September 2023 at Marks Park (Emmarentia). “The event week …
‘City Clean Up’ set to prepare the City of Gold for the Absa DASH YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K
Jozi runners are invited to join the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Team at a fun ‘City Clean Up’ at the Absa Towers West on Saturday, 23 September 2023 in the build up to SA’s largest Heritage Day Celebration, the 6th annual Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. “We’re thrilled to wrap up the 2023 …
High water usage puts strain on scheme
High water usage puts strain on system
Rand Water and Johannesburg Water have urged consumers and citizens to use water sparingly as demand is exceeding supply.
In a joint stamen issued on Sunday, the utilities said they are noticing an increase in water consumption from customer meters that are in the system.
The utilities warned the increase is putting strain on the system.
"Consumers and citizens can assist by reducing their water consumption.
“Rand Water’s primary and secondary stations are operating at their maximum capacity. However, the entity is unable to maintain its reservoirs at high water levels because of high consumption by consumers and citizens in the metro and surrounding areas.
“As a result, reservoir levels remain at their lowest due to high consumption by consumers. Due to the system being integrated, even customers that are using water sparingly are being affected.
"High potable water consumption may result in the collapse of the system, which will result in intermittent water supply,” Rand Water spokesperson, Makenosi Maroo, said.
Maroo reiterated that South Africa is a water-scarce country.
“Consumer behaviour is important in ensuring sustainable and equitable water supply," she said.
Water saving tips
Customers, including consumers and all citizens, are urged to conserve water by implementing the following water saving tips:
• Avoid watering lawns and gardens with clean drinking water.
• Refrain from filling-up swimming pools until consumption has reduced.
• Do not clean paved areas and driveways with clean drinking water.
• Wash your cars only on weekends using buckets.
• Take a two-minute shower instead of using bathtubs.
• Do not leave your tap running when brushing teeth.
• Fix all leaking plumbing features in your houses.
• Flush toilets only for the brown and not the yellow.
• Report leaking water pipes to the respective local municipalities within the City of Johannesburg.
“Rand Water and Johannesburg Water commit to constant provision of high quality drinking water to all its customers and citizens, thus ensuring the sustainable security of water supply. Citizens and all other consumers are requested to assist in this endeavour and use water sparingly and wisely,” the utilities said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 11:18
196 views
Kwikspace Achieves Level 1 B-BBEE Rating, Bolstering Commitment to Transformation
[Johannesburg, 7 September 2023] — Kwikspace, Africa’s foremost provider of modular buildings for rent or sale, is thrilled to announce its successful attainment of the Level 1 B-BBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) certification for the second consecutive year. This prestigious achievement reflects Kwikspace’s steadfast commitment to advancing South Africa’s transformation agenda. Recognising Exceptional Efforts Kwikspace …
Kwikspace Team Up for a Thrilling Project at Musgrave Centre, Durban
[Durban, South Africa – 13 September, 2023] – Kwikspace, Africa’s leading provider of prefabricated buildings, has recently completed a project in partnership with Broll and Padel Perfect, delivering essential materials for office spaces and ablutions for the new padel tennis court at Musgrave Centre in Durban. The project marks an important milestone in Kwikspace’s commitment …
Mulaudzi And Mailula Win SA Senior Cross Country Titles In Gqeberha
Kabelo Mulaudzi and Karabo Mailula emerged triumphant to secure the most prestigious titles on offer, on a spectacular day of racing at the ASA Cross Country Championships held at Nelson Mandela University sports grounds in Gqeberha on Saturday. Competing in tough conditions, which included near gale-force winds, in-form athlete Mulaudzi delivered in style after turning …
No identity document, no life
Home Affairs in court over profound damage caused by its practice of “blocking” IDs
You Could Be Drinking Water That Once Passed Through a Dinosaur – And Other Intelligent Facts
World Water Monitoring Day (WWMD) is celebrated on 18 September each year. The South African Department of Water and Sanitation, under the slogan; “Enhancing accountability and sustainability for every drop!” says that World Water Monitoring Day is an international education and outreach program that builds public awareness of the importance of protecting water resources around …
Winners at the 2023 African Conservation Awards
The 2023 African Conservation Awards, hosted by the Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) (https://www.GameRanger.org/) and sponsored by CNEI, took place on Saturday, September 16th, at the Southern African Wildlife College in Greater Kruger, South Africa.
This prestigious event honoured outstanding conservationists and showcased their exceptional contributions to protecting Africa's natural heritage.
Reflecting on the journey that led to this gathering, Dr. Larry Hansen, the visionary Founder of the African Conservation Awards said "13 years ago on a visit to The Kruger National Park there were three rhinos poached on the day I arrived. This shocking day led me to start the Rhino Conservation Awards 12 years ago together with Ms. Yu to honour and celebrate the brave conservation heroes that protect and do research on our wildlife.”
Every organisation and individual nominated for these awards has demonstrated exceptional determination to overcome formidable challenges. Often faced with daunting odds, they have showcased an unwavering commitment to their conservation missions. The African Conservation Awards serves as the vital stage where their exceptional efforts are rightfully acknowledged and celebrated.
“There are very few people who are willing to sacrifice to save wildlife,” adds Dr Hansen. “The expanded Awards have this year attracted nominations from 11 countries and incredible candidates. I wish to congratulate the winners and all of those nominated, they are TRUE HEROES and among the last protectors of the planet!"
The Winners for the 2023 African Conservation Awards are:
Best Field Ranger
Winner: Nkateko Letti Mzimba, Sergeant of Black Mambas Unit, Olifants West Nature Reserve, South Africa
Nkateko Letti Mzimba is a shining example of dedication and leadership in conservation. Her journey, beginning in 2014, reflects unwavering commitment and leadership that extends beyond routine patrols. Nkateko serves as a vigilant guardian of rhinos and other endangered species, diligently removing snares to protect wildlife. She also extends her caring hand to local communities, providing essential food and educational resources, and passionately educating the community's children about the importance of protecting nature.
1st Runner Up: Givemore Bako, Senior Ranger and Head Rhino Monitor, Savé Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe
2nd Runner Up: Reginah Smith, Corporal of the Rhino Protection Unit, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, South Africa
Best Game Ranger
Winner: Amos Gwema, Principle Investigation and Security Officer, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, Zimbabwe
Amos Gwema is a dedicated wildlife protector in the Matebeleland region. His jurisdiction includes Hwange National Park, Zambezi National Park and Matopos National Park, which is renowned for its high rhino population. Amos's efforts have made a significant impact, notably reducing elephant and rhino poaching rates while achieving an impressive 95% conviction rate in Hwange and Bulawayo Magistrate courts. He also plays a crucial role in training rangers in wildlife law enforcement and intelligence techniques. Beyond his official duties, Amos engages in community projects, such as school programs and initiatives to encourage the safe surrender of wild animals, fostering a harmonious relationship between local communities and the natural world.
1st Runner Up: Petronella Chigumbura, Deputy Ranger Supervisor, Akashinga, Zimbabwe
2nd Runner Up: Orlat Ndlovu, Head of Ranger Services, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
Best Conservation Team
Winner: Wildlife Action Group, Thuma Forest Reserve and the Dedza Salima Escarpment Forest Reserve, Malawi
Wildlife Action Group (WAG), a Malawian non-profit conservation NGO, was created in 1996 in response to severe illegal commercial deforestation and poaching of wildlife in Thuma Forest. WAG's tireless efforts have restored ecological balance, ensuring the well-being of wildlife and the people of Malawi. They've played a vital role in reviving wildlife populations, preventing elephant poaching for five years, restoring 7,000+ hectares of degraded forest, reducing human-wildlife conflicts, and educating local schools about conservation.
1st Runner Up: Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi
2nd Runner Up: Zinave National Park, Mozambique
Best Conservation Supporter
Winner: Rhino Man, South Africa
Rhino Man, with their impactful 8-year film production, sheds light on the courageous South African rangers who risk everything to protect rhinos from extinction. This documentary honours these unsung heroes, showcasing their relentless dedication and the rigorous selection process they undergo. The film pays tribute to their late friend and training partner, Martin Mthembu, while also remembering the late and great Anton Mzimba, who dedicated his life to safeguarding the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Rhino Man's work is a testament to the invaluable role of rangers in protecting our precious natural world.
1st Runner Up: Joseph Serugo Ssalongo, Honorary Wildlife Officer, Uganda
2nd Runner Up: African Pangolin Working Group, South Africa
In a heartfelt video message, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, the esteemed Patron of the African Conservation Awards, paid tribute to the dedicated conservation heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice. He honoured the memory of the 68 rangers who tragically lost their lives while safeguarding our natural heritage in the past 12 months. Additionally, Prince Albert extended his heartfelt tribute to the remarkable "633 African rangers killed in the fight for the preservation of our wilderness since 2011." His words resonated with deep respect for the thousands of individuals who daily face enormous risks, even putting their lives on the line, to protect the precious biodiversity, nature, and our planet, of which they are the unwavering and loyal stewards.
"Congratulations to all winners, runner ups and nominees of the 2023 African Conservation Awards! Your unwavering commitment to the conservation of our wildlife is both commendable and deeply inspiring. I wish to emphasize the pivotal role you each play in safeguarding our continent's invaluable natural resources. Your dedication to conservation is instrumental in shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for Africa. It is an honour and privilege for the Game Rangers' Association of Africa to recognise your remarkable achievements. Well done!" - Andrew Campbell, CEO, Game Rangers Association of Africa
The 2023 African Conservation Awards celebrated these exceptional individuals and organisations for their unwavering commitment to preserving Africa's natural heritage. They inspire us all to work toward a sustainable and harmonious future for our continent and its incredible wildlife.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the morning of the event witnessed the Game Rangers Association of Africa hosting the South Africa Hub Regional Challenge of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge. This unique sporting event took place at the South African Wildlife College, where rangers and their supporters united to run a challenging 21 kilometers in solidarity with wildlife rangers across Africa.
The primary objective of this initiative is to raise crucial funds in support of the courageous men and women on the front lines of Africa's protected areas. Beyond fundraising, the event also serves as a powerful platform to increase awareness of the ever-expanding and diverse roles that wildlife rangers undertake. These dedicated individuals are often operating with increasingly stretched resources, making their tireless efforts even more remarkable.
The African Conservation awards are hosted annually by the Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) and are made possible with the generous support of sponsors Chinese New Enterprise Investment (CNEI) and are endorsed by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment. His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, who is committed to the protection of endangered species through the support of his Foundation, is the Patron of the African Conservation Awards.
For more information about the African Conservation Awards, please visit ConservationAwards.Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Game Rangers Association of Africa.
Media Contact:
Game Rangers Association of Africa
Louise De Bruin
Email: info@gameranger.org
Love Africa Marketing
Casey Pratt
Email: casey@loveafricamarketing.com
Information:
- African Conservation Awards: https://www.ConservationAwards.Africa
- Game Rangers Association of Africa: https://www.GameRanger.org/
- Love Africa Marketing: https://www.LoveAfricaMarketing.com/
- Sponsors for the event: CNEI
GRAA background:
The Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) is a non-profit organisation, founded in 1970 which provides support, networks and representation for rangers across Africa. The GRAA is a proud member of the International Ranger Federation (IRF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) where it serves as the voice of the African ranger.
A Comprehensive Guide to Cloud Storage and Backup in South Africa
Introduction In the digital era, the importance of data can’t be overstated. Whether it’s customer information, business plans, or financial records, effective storage and backup are critical for any business. Traditional storage methods are slowly becoming obsolete due to several factors, including scalability and risk management. One solution gaining traction, particularly in South Africa, is …
FPB CEO appointed as Vice Chair of Global Online Safety Regulators Network
FPB CEO appointed as Vice Chair of Global Online Safety Regulators Network
Film and Publication Board (FPB) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Mashilo Boloka, has been appointed as Vice Chairperson of the Global Online Safety Regulators Network (GORSN).
Boloka’s appointment as Vice Chairperson, was made by the Global Online Safety Network during a meeting hosted by the UK’s Communications Regulator, the Office of Communications (OFCOM) in London.
His one-year term will run until 2024.
Welcoming the new leadership, outgoing Chairperson and eSafety Commissioner’s Julie Inman-Grant, said they are happy to hand over the reins to OFCOM under the capable stewardship of Gill Whitehead.
“The 2024 Vice Chair will be the incredibly energetic Mashilo Boloka, CEO of the South African Film and Publication Board. We will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder in working together to work towards creating a safer, more positive online world,” Inman-Grant said.
Boloka’s appointment follows the FPB’s acceptance as a member of the GORSN earlier in July 2023.
The network was established in November 2022 to promote online safety and share information and good practice around online regulation.
Dr Boloka said the network represents a collaborative initiative to fight the borderless online harms, pursue harmonisation to avoid fragmentation of online safety legislation and coordinated online safety measures.
“As the Film and Publication Board of South Africa, we are excited to be a member of this Network. As the only representative on the African continent, we will ensure that voice of other regulators on the continent and the other developing worlds is heard.
“We will persuade other regulators on the continent to join the Network so that they can seize the opportunities it provides, information sharing on experiences and best practices so that we can together promote a safer online environment and fight online harms wherever it exists,” Boloka said.
During the London meeting, the Network discussed the need to promote regulatory coherence and underscored the importance of collaboration on shared issues, including industry engagement and new and emerging technology.
It also agreed on creation of a technology and public education working group. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 09/17/2023 - 09:24
437 views
Science and technology are key to development
Science and technology are key to development
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor has highlighted the importance of science, technology and innovation in the development of countries.
Speaking at the General Debate at the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the G77 + China, the Minister said that there “is no doubt science technology and innovation are strategic levers for development.”
“The struggle for the soul of the South and for unilateral global dominance has never been more intense and as the South, we must seize this historic moment to ensure we develop the ability to be free agents of a development agenda that will advance our battle against poverty inequality and unemployment,” she said.
Pandor was representing President Cyril Ramaphosa at the two-day Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Group of 77 (G77) + China in Havana, Cuba. The Summit began on Friday.
“Effective support for science research, innovation and digital technologies has the potential to advance these objectives but it must be buttressed by effective organisation, coordination and well-crafted G77 science diplomacy. South Africa confirmed the efficacy of science diplomacy in our collaboration in genomic sequencing research that assisted us in combatting COVID-19.
“Increased attention must be given to ensuring we have a science and innovation ecosystem that can support our ambition,” she said at the debate on Saturday.
She said investment in research universities, increased graduation of science and technology researchers at PhD level, centres of excellence and the building of robust science councils are needed.
She also spoke of ensuring equal access to science and innovation for women and girls.
“Since the achievement of freedom and democracy in 1994, South Africa has increased investment in research, development, and innovation. Funding to create ninety Centres of Excellence has been provided as well as support for thousands of young people to study for PhDs in science, engineering, economics, humanities, and technology. The support has included investment in young women scientists.”
Government has also funded over 200 Research Chairs and attracted local and international talent to these chairs.
She added that science partnerships between researchers and university systems must be formed drawing on the successes of Cuba, China and India.
“Greater focus must be given to Africa expanding its science and innovation ecosystem and to using science to resolve our most intractable challenges.”
“Mr President science and innovation will provide the means to grow a green economy in the South, to increase productive capacity and high value addition to our mineral wealth.
“Alongside pursuing this important agenda let us also reinforce our commitment to effective reform of the United Nations mechanisms, especially the Security Council and also actively jointly advance the fundamental reform of international development finance institutions,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 09/17/2023 - 12:54
118 views
GroundUp reporters win prestigious journalism award
Marecia Damons and Daniel Steyn win 2023 Nat Nakasa Award for Thabo Bester prison escape story
How One Pretoria Teacher’s Decision Made A Profound Impact On 10 Learners
In a heart-warming testament to the transformative power of education and community, Life Skills Teacher, Mrs. Rose Nkwane from Retlilepele Primary School in Pretoria, has stepped forward to share an extraordinary story of how the Rama Good Breakfast Programme went far beyond teaching children about making better nutritional choices. Instead, it became a catalyst for …
Call for sustainable reconciliation
Call for sustainable reconciliation
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged citizens to fulfil Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader and Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s wishes for a sustainable and durable reconciliation.
“We carry the heavy weight of memories, and of many heartaches. But difficult as it may be right now, it is important that we fulfil the wishes he had for a sustainable and durable reconciliation, not only between the IFP and the ANC [African National Congress] but amongst all of us as the people of South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said on Saturday.
The President said this while delivering the eulogy at the funeral service of Buthelezi who passed away at the age of 95. The Prince had served as South Africa’s first Home Affairs Minister and was the founder and President Emeritus of the IFP.
Buthelezi and the country’s first democratically elected President Nelson Mandela were of the same mind. President Ramaphosa said the legacy they left behind was that of an “enduring dream for reconciliation, peace and progress for our great nation.”
In addition, uShenge was a leader who was willing to collaborate across the political divide.
“I have always admired his commitment to finding common ground amongst political leaders and parties, particularly between the Inkatha Freedom Party and the African National Congress. He was not a man who let burning issues slide, and he was unafraid to speak truth to power.
“And yet, the spirit of camaraderie, respect, empathy and understanding of the immense difficulties we face in rebuilding this country, defined all our interactions. He had respect for the authority of the state and defended the institutions of our democratic order.
“He was always there when we needed to consult with traditional leaders, encouraging people to go and vote in elections and supporting the national effort during the dark days of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said the President.
Prince Buthelezi was described as a defender of constitutional order who served as a proud Member of Parliament (MP).
While robust in his critique, Buthelezi was also genuine with his praise.
“I believe I can speak on behalf of the members of our Parliament when I say that we will miss his legendary eloquence, the care, diligence and attention to detail with which he performed his duties as an MP.
“As an elder statesman, he was dignity personified. Many will testify that they can still hear his voice permeating through the National Assembly eloquently exhorting all members of Parliament to uphold the principles and values of our constitution and democratic order, and to do so with discipline, decorum and respect for not just each other, but for the people of South Africa.”
The President, on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa, offered his deepest condolences to the Royal Household, the Buthelezi family and the leadership and membership of the IFP.
Wisdom
Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, said a giant tree had fallen.
“We’ve lost in Parliament his presence as a guiding elder [and] we will miss his wisdom and experience. He was our dad, irrespective of our political parties. For us, we must not forget his words of wisdom and the knowledge he shared with us. Many of us have learned something from him,” the Speaker said.
She said Buthelezi who was a straight forward man, honest and true to himself, played an important role in the structuring of the government of national unity.
The Speaker said Buthelezi’s name would appear on the list of people who made a difference in the history of the people of South Africa.
Former Presidents Thabo Mbeki, Jacob Zuma and Kgalema Motlanthe were among the dignitaries who attended the funeral.
Among those who addressed mourners at the funeral were former President of Nigeria, Dr Olusegun Obasanjo as well as IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 17:10
104 views
Prince Buthelezi described as a fearless leader
Prince Buthelezi described as a brave leader
Mourners have described the late Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader and Traditional Prime Minister of the Zulu nation, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, as a brave leader who stood for what he believed in.
This as the funeral service for Buthelezi, who passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95, is currently underway at the Prince Mangosuthu Stadium in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal.
In a moving tribute, daughter of the late Prince, Princess Phumzile Buthelezi said, she never thought that she would one day bury the man she honoured and looked up to.
“I don’t think I will ever come across a kind man as my father. He taught us to love unconditionally.
“He taught us to be humble, and that humility is a sign of greatness. I hope that we as his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, will take away some of these good qualities that he instilled upon us,” she said on Saturday.
Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi said his father was the anchor of the family.
“It is difficult to express the depth of our pain. He was the anchor of our family [and] a giant amongst men. Our father was first and foremost a Christian [and] second, he was a husband father and thirdly, a patriot of this nation and beyond,” Buthelezi said.
He added that his father leaves behind a legacy of service to the Zulu nation and South Africa.
Meanwhile, IFP President Velenkosini Hlabisa said there’s tremendous pain following the loss of a “father, master, hero, mentor, our leader, and giant of Africa.”
Hlabisa said Buthelezi was the IFP’s “greatest treasure.”
“His integrity and immovable principles blessed us with a sense of stability. We always knew he would do the right thing and trusted his judgement, and it never failed.
“Buthelezi was able to look into the soul of ordinary people, he treated us as the leaders he believed we could be. [He] walked with us until we became those leaders. He showed us how to empower the vulnerable, he honoured women, and he believed in inclusive participation.”
Buthelezi founded the IFP in 1975.
In his address to mourners the former President of Nigeria, Dr Olusegun Obasanjo described Buthelezi as a hero and conqueror, who worked for the dignity of people.
“We are here to celebrate a life dedicated to making other peoples’ lives better. The death of Buthelezi is a great loss for the whole of Africa,” Obasanjo said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the funeral.
President Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a Special Official funeral category 1. The President is also expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral.
Buthelezi served as South Africa’s first Home Affairs Minister.-SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 15:05
206 views
Minister calls for improvement in scheme that identifies talent in sports
Minister calls for improvement in system that identifies talent in sports
While efforts have been made to transform the sports fraternity, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa has called for the development of a framework for the early identification and development of sporting talent.
“We still preside over a divided and ill-defined sports system characterised by fissures of our past. We have no universal access to facilities,” the Minister said on Thursday in Johannesburg.
Addressing the School Sport Indaba, he said by identifying talent early in school, the youth can have the needed support, mentorship, and resources to make it as a professional sportsman or sportswoman.
“This implies the government and other stakeholders making budget available to support identified initiatives. When looking internationally, it is common to see sports stars in their teenage years making their mark in the upper echelons of world sport,” Kodwa said.
According to the EPG 2018 report, the School Sport competition system is currently indicating that there are three streams from which talent is identified and competition is staged.
The Minister said this system is currently not integrated and has some challenges.
“The system shows that there is a government-run school sport system, then there is one model where former Model C schools and private schools compete, this is where most athletes are identified, and then there is a system which the Federations use to stage the tournaments and select national athletes.
“The athletes competing in the Government-run school sport system, come from more 23 000 public schools, majority of which are previously disadvantaged with poor or no sport facilities in place.
“These are the athletes whose system of competition is poorly organized and do not have proper coaching support. The second group are athletes, from the former Model-C schools, including private schools which are properly resourced, with world-class sport facilities and proper coaching support,” the Minister said.
The last group are athletes competing in Federations-staged tournaments, most of whom must have means to attend these events with the majority being from the former Model C schools.
Upon successful competition, these athletes are awarded the National colours and may be eligible for selection into academies and underage national teams.
“Dare I say, we as all stakeholders have failed learners and young people at school and out of school, and we need a theory of change? We need to clearly spell out how School Sport is supposed to work, why it will work, and the conditions required for its successful implementation,” the Minister said.
He said the School Sport Indaba is government’s intervention to revitalise school sport in South Africa.
The Minister noted the need for investment in the development of local expertise, through running of sports academies from foundation phase as well as the establishment of bilateral agreements with other governments for the creation of development opportunities for studies in the different sporting fields like Sports Science.
Kodwa also called for the creation of internship opportunities for graduates in schools and sports clubs.
“The National Sport and Recreation Plan (NSRP) contends that provision and maintenance of facilities forms the foundation of the entire sport and recreation system, therefore if facilities backlogs are not addressed it will be difficult to achieve transformation, sport development and increased participation objectives in sport.
“This situation or reality, therefore, requires all stakeholders to put all hands-on-deck for the future of sport in our country. Only when we all collaborate, will we be able to develop athletes that can successfully compete internationally, and reach our goal of being a winning nation!
“The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has already undertaken to address the challenge of talent identification by building multipurpose sports courts and outdoor gyms in rural and township communities, which have historically lacked these facilities,” the Minister said.
As part of the legacy projects of the Netball World Cup, multipurpose courts have been built in several communities around the country, including in Hammarsdale in KwaZulu-Natal.
Work is also being done to build netball courts in Cala Secondary School and Mchewula High School in Cala, Eastern Cape.
“There is much being done and much more to do in the country. As I have said, Government cannot do it alone. I would like to applaud all the commercial and community partners that support the work of Government to develop sport at grassroots level,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
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Fri, 09/15/2023 - 08:54
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