Should Prisons Provide Gender-Affirming Healthcare?
Transwoman denied hormone therapy and prevented from using makeup or wearing female prison clothing
Sun City
Progress made in tackling global challenges
Progress made in tackling global challenges
South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) is making significant progress in tackling global challenges through an inclusive and collaborative approach.
This is according to the country’s G20 Sherpa, Zane Dangor. Sherpas are the personal representatives of the G20 leaders.
“We believe this is important and that the G20 must work with the UN [United Nations] and other multilateral institutions to mitigate these challenges and to find practical solutions for all of us.
“We look forward to constructive engagements from all members of the G20, the invited guests [and] also the international organisations,” he said on Thursday.
Dangor who is also the Director-General for International Relations and Cooperation, chaired the second virtual meeting of the G20 Sherpas in Pretoria on Thursday.
He also stressed the importance of Ubuntu – a philosophy of inclusiveness and solidarity – in addressing global challenges and achieving shared interests across international organisations.
“We must express our appreciation in the way that you embraced the spirit of Ubuntu, the culture that underpins not just South Africa’s culture of inclusiveness, but also Africa’s wider culture. Ubuntu really underpins our commitment and solidarity in addressing our common challenges in achieving shared prosperity,” he said during the opening session of the meeting.
Dangor stressed South Africa’s commitment to multilateralism and shared prosperity, with 15 working groups having already conducted their first meetings and three task force meetings.
Working Groups are made up of representatives from member countries’ Ministries. The G20 working groups cover diverse areas, including development, anti-corruption, culture, education, women’s empowerment, environment, health, tourism, and disaster risk management.
“We hope that as you listen to the reflections of the working group members in your own inputs, you’ll be able to sharpen what you believe we should be taking forward as a collective.”
He also touched on a diplomatic engagement where he told attendees that the Foreign Ministers’ meeting in February this year expressed strong support for South Africa’s themes and priorities, particularly in managing geopolitical issues.
At the meeting in February, G20 foreign ministers threw their weight behind South Africa’s Presidency priorities, which focus on sustainable development and debt sustainability for low-income countries, amongst others.
READ | Foreign Ministers’ Meeting backs SA’s G20 Presidency priorities
In addition, he said following Brazil’s model, South Africa’s Presidency aims to develop in-depth discussions on geopolitical matters through ministerial and leadership channels while allowing working groups to focus on technical issues.
Dangor acknowledged the enormous task ahead and the need for support from key members and international organisations.
The Sherpa said the objective of the two-day meeting which will conclude on Friday, is to take stock of what has happened, identify areas for improvement, and address key issues.
READ | South Africa convenes second G20 Sherpa Meeting
He announced that the next meeting for the G20 Sherpa will be held from 26 to 28 June 2025 at the Sun City Resort in the North West, marking an in-person gathering to continue collaborative discussions. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 13:49
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Lamola speaks on deployment of SA troops to the DRC
Lamola speaks on deployment of SA troops to the DRC
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has dismissed the proposal to withdraw South African soldiers from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), stating that this action would be worse than surrender.
Lamola addressed Parliament during an urgent debate regarding the deployment of South African troops to the DRC.
This special session was called following the deaths of 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers in the eastern part of the DRC, as families await the repatriation of their loved ones.
“Abrupt withdrawal as called upon by some in the House is not even a tactical retreat, it is even worse than a surrender as with the number [of] armed groups in the area, there lies ambush,” he said.
Lamola stated that the South African government welcomes comments of the leaders of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) and the East Africa Community (EAC), who called for a ceasefire and dialogue in the DRC over the weekend.
This follows a SADC – EAC Heads of State and Government Summit on the security situation in the eastern DRC, in which President Cyril Ramaphosa also took part.
READ | SADC-EAC leaders call for dialogue in DRC conflict
The Minister believes that the recent summit of SADC and the EAC has clarified the way forward regarding the conflict in the eastern DRC.
“Recognising that a peaceful Africa is crucial for the economic and social development of the continent, we participated in a lot of peace missions in the continent, in Sudan, Ethiopia, Mozambique, South Sudan, and so on to silence the guns in line with vision 2063.
“Our 2001 peace efforts with the Sun City talks led to a new constitutional order and almost two decades of peace in the DRC. We have been involved in State-building and peace-building efforts,” he told Members of Parliament (MPs).
The SANDF soldiers are part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), which aims to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country.
According to Lamola, the DRC is more peaceful now than before, and the conflict is in an isolated region.
“To suggest that we should not resolve conflicts in Africa, regardless of their origin, is simplistic and profoundly naïve. Such a stance reflects a disturbing ignorance of the complexities and implications of neglecting these critical situations.
“A failure to act is not merely a passive choice; it actively undermines our peace and security and economic prosperity as no country is an island. Our nation will not be at peace if our regional community suffers in turmoil. We are also one of the leading countries in the continent in receiving refugees fleeing conflict zones.”
He emphasised the importance of South Africa’s role in maintaining peace and economic stability, not only for its benefit but also for the prosperity of neighbouring countries on the continent.
The Minister also took time to honour the country’s fallen heroes, as well as members of the Malawian, Tanzanian, and the Uruguayan defence forces.
“It is not a tragedy that has only befallen our defence force, it has befallen both the United Nations mission and the SADC mission,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 02/11/2025 - 11:05
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NW municipalities called to prioritise water services management assets
NW municipalities called to prioritise water services management assets
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has called on municipalities in the North West to prioritise the assets of water and sanitation services to ensure sustainable water provision to communities.
Mahlobo made the call at the annual South African Local Government Association (SALGA) Provincial Members Assembly, held recently at Sun City Convention Centre.
The Minister joined North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Deputy Minister, Seiso Mohai, and North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Oageng Molapisi at the event.
Speaking at the meeting, Mahlobo said while North West municipalities have ensured basic access to clean drinking water over the last 30 years, their recent performance has declined regarding water provision services to the people due to ageing water infrastructure and the illegal connections to the systems by communities.
He said there was a waning quality of drinking water and an increase in loss of water from water infrastructures, according to the Blue Drop, Green Drop and No drop reports released by the Department of Water and Sanitation, last year.
Despite numerous water projects implemented through Operation Bulela Metsi - a provincial initiative geared towards enhancing access to consistent and reliable water supply in North West province - Mahlobo said there was still an urgent need to address water and sanitation challenges in the province.
Mahlobo said water availability and reliability in certain areas within the province has moved from about 92% to close to 52%.
“We are now at a point as municipalities to improve water services. We should continue to work together as the different spheres of government to turn the situation around and ensure water efficiency in the province,” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister called for technical interventions by municipalities to address the water efficiency challenges.
He advised the municipalities to implement measures of water flow restrictions and pressure management to regulate water availability, maintain and replace water pipes, and urgently address small and large water leaks in both public and private water networks.
He encouraged a behaviour change from communities about their water consumption, highlighting that there are some municipalities that cannot provide communities with water.
He assured the department did not intent to take the municipalities powers as the Water Services Authority.
However, a possible solution is for the poor performing municipalities to use Section 78 of the National Water Act to appoint capable water service providers, be it another municipality, a water board or an entity that has financial and technical capability to deliver the services, to executive their functions while they build their capacity. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/25/2024 - 13:01
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Tourism sector encouraged to unite to grow
Tourism sector encouraged to unite to grow
Tourism Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu says it is important for the tourism sector to stand together, united by the common goal of growing an inclusive sector.
“We have over 300 delegates representing the sector, which is testimony of our success in working together to fully recover from COVID-19 shocks and further grow the tourism sector,” Sotyu said.
Addressing the Tourism Leadership Conference taking place in Sun City, North West province, on Thursday, Sotyu applauded the tourism sector for its resilience and perseverance since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are here to not just reflect on the past but also to look forward, charting a course for the future of the tourism sector,” she said.
Sotyu said by continuing to adapt and finding ways to maintain operations, the tourism sector played a vital role in supporting local economies and communities.
“While we are here to understand the business landscape and plan together for a prosperous sector ahead, let us acknowledge our achievements that materialised since the last conference.
“I want to emphasise that the tourism sector is a crucial economic sector for our country. Another notable achievement is that we are on our way to achieve our collective target of 2019 international arrivals by 2024, and we must build on this to achieve our National Development Plan (NDP) revised target of 15.1 million tourists by 2030.
“Also pleasing is that we have fully recovered on the domestic tourism front, and now need to consolidate on the gains and go beyond just travel,” Sotyu said.
She commended the tourism sector for their participation in the sho’t left campaign in their numbers.
READ | Township and village tourism have a lot to offer
“The listing of your products and the all-important discounts on the sho’t left website is much appreciated. However, we need more in the future campaigns,” said Sotyu.
In September 2023, the Tourism Minister released the green paper on tourism for public comment, and over 3 500 submissions were made to the department, which were all considered and the white paper is currently under consideration by Cabinet.
Cabinet has also approved the Tourism Sector Master Plan and extended its implementation until 2026.
Sotyu explained that the reason for the extension was based on the fact that the sector has not fully recovered from the COVID-19 impact and that more still needs to be done, such as increase aviation capacity and improve visa facilitation for large markets, especially India and China.
“The gazetting of the white paper for implementation will improve the enabling regulatory environment. I would like to indicate that the implementation of the Tourism Master Plan is well underway, and the tourism stakeholders are holding each other accountable through the Master Plan structures,” she said.
Sotyu said the department had partnered with the sector and developed the Tourism Crisis Management Strategy to build the resilience of the sector.
“If anything, COVID-19 taught us to anticipate any scenario. The strategy aims to ensure that the sector is able to mitigate and respond to and manage crisis as and when such occurs,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 12:41
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Leading researchers to be acknowledged at 2024 NRF Awards
Leading researchers to be acknowledged at 2024 NRF Awards
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, will address the prestigious National Research Foundation (NRF) Awards at the Sun City Resort, North West, on Thursday.
The NRF, an entity of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), funds research and the development of high-end human capacity and critical research infrastructure to promote knowledge production across all disciplinary fields.
This year’s event is significant as it marks 25 years of the NRF promoting research, innovation and partnerships that contribute to building an inclusive, knowledge-based society in South Africa.
The annual awards are a highlight of the academic calendar, drawing together the leading lights of local and international academia.
The ceremony recognises the scientists behind groundbreaking research conducted at South Africa’s higher education institutions.
The awards are presented in two categories, these include the special awards that recognise extraordinary contributions to the South African knowledge base.
The finalists in this category include three DSI-NRF Centres of Excellence – Human Development, Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, and Biomedical TB Research.
The second category is the NRF ratings-based awards, which are based on a rigorous peer review system that evaluates the research impact of nominees over the past five years.
“Each year several researchers have their research output peer-reviewed and are given ratings by the NRF,” a statement by the department read.
These ratings fall under the categories of A (leading international researchers), B (internationally acclaimed researchers), C (established researchers), P (prestigious awards) or Y (promising young researchers).
“These ratings recognise these researchers’ standing in their fields as well as the world-leading nature of their work. To obtain an A rating, a researcher must be recognised by their peers as a leading international scholar in their field.”
In addition, an A-rated researcher must be based on the high quality and high impact of their recent research output.
Meanwhile, the P rating is awarded to researchers who, based on exceptional potential demonstrated in research performance and output during doctoral and/or early post-doctoral careers, are considered likely to become future international leaders in their respective fields.
“Researchers who have received A and P ratings will be acknowledged at the NRF Awards.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/20/2024 - 12:44
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Spanish tourist killed by elephant at the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve in NW
Spanish tourist killed by elephant at the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve in NW
The North West Parks and Tourism Board has confirmed that a male Spanish citizen was killed by an elephant at the Pilanesberg Nature Reserve after stepping out of the vehicle he was in, to take pictures.
The tourist and his three friends were driving in their vehicle, when they came across a breeding herd of elephants that were feeding a distance from the road.
“According to eyewitnesses, the man decided to alight from the vehicle and approach the elephants on foot, taking pictures,” the statement read.
Despite warnings from his fellow passengers, and other occupants from two other vehicles that were at the sighting, the guest allegedly did not heed their warnings.
That is when an adult elephant cow charged at the man, and he then ran from the elephant.
“He was unfortunately not able to escape or evade the elephant, which was now joined by the whole herd, and was caught and trampled to death.
“The elephants moved away immediately from the scene without any aggression towards the nearby vehicles and eventually disappeared into the bushes.”
According to the Board, park officials were alerted and immediately rushed to the scene to help and secure the scene.
The officials also assisted the South African Police Service (SAPS) and authorities with the necessary procedures and investigation.
“Statements by witnesses who observed the whole incident further suggest that the female elephant that charged and attacked might have done so to protect the herd and young ones.”
The case has since been handed to the police for further investigation.
“The dangerous and unpredictable nature of wild animals is always emphasised on the permits and booklets for sale in Pilanesberg.
“Park officials and honorary rangers are also patrolling the park and tourist roads when the park is open.”
According to the Board, tourists are always educated on the importance of remaining in the safety of their vehicle, respecting the distance between vehicles, allowing animals first right of passage, and only alighting in specially designated areas.
In addition, rules and regulations of the park are printed on the entry permit which must be always adhered to, for the safety of guests and animals.
“The Board is very saddened by this tragic incident. We would like to express our sincere condolences to the deceased’s next of kin and friends.
“We also send our appreciation to Sun City Resort for immediately availing relevant professionals to give counselling to the visibly traumatized friends of the deceased.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 07/10/2024 - 10:37
339 views
Minister Zizi Kodwa reveals nominees for 17th Annual South African Sport Awards
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture is thrilled to announce the 17th edition of the South African Sport Awards (SASA). This year's awards are themed “Celebrating 30 years of freedom through sporting excellence”. The #SASA17Edition is scheduled to take place on Sunday, 5th May 2024 at the Sun City Superbowl, North-West.
The 30th anniversary of celebrating freedom and democracy through sporting excellence has positioned South Africa on a global stage as a Winning Nation across all sporting disciplines. The three decades of the nation's sporting journey have seen history-making achievements, from the dismantling of apartheid through negotiations and reconciliation to the establishment of a constitutional democracy founded on the principles of equality, justice, and human rights.
Over the past 30 years, South Africa has achieved more through sport than almost any other area. South African Sports were excluded from international sporting scene during the apartheid era and only started to compete at the beginning of our democracy. However, our nation's sportsmen and sportswomen, from all walks of life, united on and off field to foster a sporting culture within South Africa that pushes the nation to unite in its diversity. South African sport has played a pivotal role in influencing the country to be a Rainbow Nation and in making each South African to be proud of their flag.
This year's edition of the awards with the hashtag #IzinjaZegame / #SASA17Edition carry a total of 19 categories, including the Sport Star of the Year, People's Choice and Journalist of the year. All categories are beamed to recognise performances from individuals, teams, and administrators of the SA sporting landscape for the period under review (i.e.) 01 September 2022 - 31 August 2023.
“The SABC (South African Broadcasting Corporation) is proud to be the host broadcaster for the 17th SA Sports Awards. SABC Sport has always been the ultimate sporting home to the nation and has brought unforgettable sporting events over the years. We are very excited that we are part of this historic moment of honouring key sport talent in the country and we wish the nominees all the best. We are looking forward to broadcasting this event live on our platforms” Nomsa Chabeli SABC Group CEO.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa says, “The 17th edition of the South African Spors Awards take place in a significant time in South Africa's history. We celebrate 30 years of democracy, and our national athletes and teams have been raising the nation's flag sky high. In the South African Sport Awards, we celebrate the role sport continues to play to unite our diverse people, and in lifting the nation's mood.”
The Minister adds, “South African sport is enjoying unprecedented success. Our athletes and sports teams have made us all so proud with their performances. I congratulate all the nominees for the 17th edition of the South African Sport Awards.”
The #SASA17Edition / #IzinjaZegame Nominees and categories are listed as follows:
SPORT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR
Mark Alexander
Sibongile Fondini
Louis Polome
SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR
Kisten Neuschafer
Tatjana Smith
Laura Wolvaardt
SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR
Andrew Birkett
Eben Etzebeth
Sivenathi Nontshinga
SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR WITH A DISABILITY
Mpumelelo Mhlongo
Donald Tebogo Ramphadi
David Watts
SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR WITH A DISABILITY
Simone Kruger
Kat Swanepoel
Kgothatso Montjane
COACH OF THE YEAR
Jacques Nienaber
Rocco Meiring
Jason Sewanyana
SPORTS JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
Khanyiso Tshwaku
Sihle Ndebele
Vaylen Kirtley
SPORT PHOTO OR VISUAL JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
Samuel Shivambo
Vincent Matlou (Vino Snap)
Kirsten Olivier
NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR
Gerald Coetzee
Manie Libbok
Karabo Cassius Morapedi
Elanza Jordaan"
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Hubert Oliphant
Beka Ntsangwese
Zelma Basson
SPORTS STAR OF THE YEAR
Siyamthanda Siya Kolisi
Tatjana Smith
Simone Kruger
TEAM OF THE YEAR
Springbok
T20 Women Cricket team
Sheep shearing
FEDERATION OF THE YEAR
South African Rugby Union
Cricket South Africa
Cycling South Africa
RECREATION BODY OF THE YEAR
Amandal WC
Vakhegula-Vhakhegula
Made 4 More
INDIGENOUS GAME TEAM
KZN Kho-Kho Male Team
LP Nvuca Team
GP Diketo Team
SCHOOL TEAM OF THE YEAR
Hoer Lanbouskool Oakdale - Tug of War 560kg Men
Afrikaanse Hoer Meisieskool – netball
Clapham High School - football
DEVELOPING SCHOOL OF THE YEAR
Edendale Technical High School -under 15 girls - Sihle Basi sportchairpern
MM Sebitloane Special School - mr bitso
Hlabi School
Technical Official of the year
Sean Rapaport
Reinet Barnard
Aimee Barrett-Theron
PEOPLE'S CHOICE Nominees (this category Sport fans are encouraged to participate by voting for their athlete of choice by SMS 120*32020# followed by an alphabet representing their athlete of choice. The nominees are:
A: Eben Etzebeth
B: Gerda Steyn
C: Siyamthanda “Siya” Kolisi
D: Percy Tau
E: Kirsten Neuschafer
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Republic of South Africa (DSAC).
Maloyi says encouraging signs of recovery in the province
Maloyi says encouraging signs of recovery in the province
Economic growth in the North West remains slow despite the province’s abundant mineral resources, according to Acting Premier Nono Maloyi.
“While our province is endowed with vast mineral deposits, we continue to be inundated by high levels of poverty and unemployment.
“Economic growth remains sluggish, and this has had an adverse impact on our efforts to
create jobs for our people,” Maloyi said on Tuesday, delivering his State of the Province Address (SOPA).
However, the Acting Premier, announced that there are encouraging signs of recovery.
During his speech to the provincial legislature, he highlighted that the North West was one of only three provinces that experienced significant employment growth in the third quarter of 2023, resulting in the creation of over 61 000 jobs.
“The unemployment rate in the North West gives us sleepless nights, particularly because it affects mainly women and the youth.”
According to Maloyi, two investment promotion events were held with major investors.
These include the North West BRICS Investment Conference held during the BRICS Summit last year and the Premier’s Dinner with investors in September 2023 at Sun City, of which both events have yielded positive outcomes.
Both initiatives yielded 34 investment pledges with a total value of over R104.1 billion.
To date, Maloyi told the members, 14 have confirmed investment projects to the tune of R13.5 billion, which are in the pipeline for the Bojanala Special Economic Zone.
These investments will create an additional 10 000 jobs.
Tourism
Meanwhile, he said the province’s Tourism Recovery Plan has begun to realise growth in the number of both domestic and international visitors.
“Between 2022 and 2023 our industry has risen from the ashes of the COVID-19 pandemic, and this has generated R6.9 billion in revenue for the province thereby creating and preserving 24 000 jobs.”
He said this government has already started the process of revitalising the Pilanesberg and George Dick Montshiwa Airports.
“Both these airports will add capacity to the province to grow tourism and open new economic frontiers in cargo hauling, hanger, and airline services. We have sent Request for Proposals for running these two airports and lure investments,” he explained, adding that the preferred bidders will commence work by May this year.
In addition, the Acting Premier announced that the agricultural sector is yet to reach its full potential through the meaningful participation of emerging farmers in this growing sector.
Economic policy
“Honourable Speaker, economic development challenges require coherent policy responses backed-up by long-term planning.”
In addition, the province has now finalised the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) with a primary aim to provide a broad economic policy-planning guide and anchor interventions to meet the goals as set out in the National Development Plan 2030.
This, he said, has now enabled the provincial government to complete the resuscitation of the Premier’s Economic Advisory Council.
The council will provide strategic support and coordination in the implementation of the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy, and promote integrated economic planning and sector contributions.
Internships
During this financial year, close to 900 internships and learnerships benefitted young people in various departments, municipalities, State-owned entities (SOEs) and the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETAs).
He announced that the North West would prioritise young people in various infrastructure projects that will be rolled out in the 2024/25 financial year.
“Women are the backbone of our provincial economy. Eight women-led cooperatives and individuals will benefit from R1.4 million, which has been set aside for their upskilling and business growth.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 12:23
406 views
North West govt commits to completion of infrastructure projects
North West govt commits to completion of infrastructure projects
Acting North West Premier Nono Maloyi has committed to meeting with the contractor responsible for the construction of Nelson Mandela Drive, which is a crucial node for the economy of the province.
Delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Tuesday, Maloyi apologised for the delayed refurbishment and maintenance of the road. Nelson Mandela Drive has been described as the busiest road in Mahikeng and an economic transport arterial road, which carries large volumes of traffic, especially during peak hours.
“We acknowledge and apologise for the delays in the construction of Nelson Mandela
Drive in Mahikeng. This has impacted negatively on businesses along the road and the public who use the road daily,” Maloyi said.
However, according to Maloyi, there has been progress on the road, as 3.2 kilometres have already been completed, with 450 metres nearing completion.
“After this address, I will be visiting the project to meet with the contractor to emphasise the commitment to complete the project,” Maloyi promised.
Meanwhile, he said the rehabilitation and widening of the Phelindaba to Pecanwood Road is progressing well and is due for completion in December 2026.
In addition, the Hartbeesfontein to Ottosdal Road is envisioned to be completed ahead of schedule in June this year.
As part of addressing road infrastructure backlogs, Maloyi told the provincial legislature that 12 roads have been transferred to the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) for construction.
This includes portions of roads on the N18 from Mahikeng to Vryburg and the R30 that will cover Klerksdorp to Ventersdorp, as well as Orkney.
The Acting Premier explained that the remainder of these projects will be spread across Bojanala-Platinum, Ngaka Modiri Molema and Dr Kenneth Kaunda Districts.
Potholes
Maloyi said over 320 kilometres of potholes across the province will be resealed, creating 429 job opportunities.
“Municipalities such as Matlosana and JB Marks are to insource road maintenance and pothole patching on an ongoing basis, as a municipal function undertaken by municipal employees.”
He explained that this initiative will be emulated in other municipalities across the province.
In addition, work on the Lichtenburg to Koster and Derby to Magaliesburg will commence in the new financial year.
“We have terminated and appointed a new contractor to start working on the Majakaneng to Sun City Road," Maloyi said.
Load shedding
Maloyi acknowledged that the provision of electricity has increased significantly from 58.1% in 1996 to over 94.7% to date.
Shifting his focus to power cuts, he acknowledged the devastating impact of load shedding on their provincial economy and households.
As a result, he said the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) is coordinating efforts to assist municipalities to implement renewable and alternative energy sources.
To help put an end to load shedding, the province has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Chinese National Import and Export Corporation.
The agreement aims to construct gas to electricity power stations worth R16 billion in the City of Matlosana and Moses Kotane Local Municipality, respectively.
The first phase of this project, he said, will see Matlosana producing 198 megawatts of electricity.
Construction is earmarked for a maximum of 90 days per 100 megawatts.
The Chinese Import and Export Corporation, in addition to their project investment, has committed to investing further resources to assist in eradicating mud houses in the province by building 500 houses every year for the duration of this MoU.
This project is expected to create a minimum of over 10 000 jobs.
Improving governance in municipalities
The Acting Premier said the provincial government is continuing to provide dedicated support to all municipalities to improve financial management through the implementation and monitoring of Financial Recovery Plans (FRPs).
This is after the province has finally exited the section 100 intervention phase, with the full restoration of all executive functions of provincial departments after it was placed under administration in 2018.
Maloyi said the Executive Council has approved the appointment and deployment of Provincial Executive Representatives (PERs) to implement financial recovery plans for identified municipalities, under the joint coordination of the Provincial Treasury and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA).
In addition, he said the provincial government has rolled out skills and qualification audits in all municipalities, with 5 487 employees already being audited. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 13:36
538 views
Minor Hotels celebrates International Chef’s Day with South African Chefs making their effect globally
International Chef’s Day, celebrated on 20 October, is a day dedicated to honouring and recognising the culinary talents that bring delectable flavours to our tables. Minor Hotels proudly joins in this celebration by introducing you to four of our exceptional chefs, each with a unique culinary journey and passion for their craft. These chefs have …
The 9th edition of the African Women Writers Symposium launches its own Award!
The 9th African Women Writers’ Symposium takes place from 8 to 20 of October 2023, featuring keynote addresses, panels, workshops and more on all things literature. The Symposium will kick off on Sunday 8 October at the Soweto Theatre and will result in the launch of the first ever African Women Writers Literary Award. The …
The 9th African Women Writers’ Symposium presented by Afro Arts SA Supported by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC)
The 9th African Women Writers’ Symposium takes place from 8 to 20 of October 2023, featuring keynote addresses, panels, workshops and more on all things literature. The Symposium will kick off on Sunday 8 October at the Soweto Theatre and will result in the launch of the first ever African Women Writers Literary Award. The …
South Africa is Facing many Challenges but this too shall pass
The former Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, has called on stakeholders within the South African legislative sector to do what they can and focus on resolving the many challenges facing South Africa. Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka was speaking at the opening of the 2023 Legislative Sector Development Seminar at the Sun City Convention Centre in North West Province.
The theme of the seminar is “Building a capable and strong legislative sector that realises open, responsive and accountable government and aims to reflect on progress made towards achieving the goals of developing an effective oversight tool as well as putting measures in place for an effective and efficient 7th parliamentary term”.
This capacity-building initiative is held every two years to facilitate interaction and an exchange of ideas within the legislative sector. This conference is also significant as it is the first one since the Covid-19 pandemic. Best practice models will be analysed to see how Parliament and the nine provincial legislatures can better respond to the challenges currently facing South Africa.
“We have to be frank that some things are not going well but this too shall pass. What I ask is that you hold your peace, do your work in your area of responsibility and focus on having a legislative sector that has empathy and fairness in the implementation of its work,” Dr Mlambo Ngcuka said.
The former Deputy President also suggested that if the sector is to achieve its intended objectives, it must adopt a SMART system approach. “We must be specific and clear on what we want to achieve, have tools to measure the impact of the laws we make. The goals we make must be achievable so that we don't sell false dreams to the people. Also, the work of legislatures must be relevant to the challenges faced by many South Africans. We should not just be busy for appearance. And, finally, the work of legislatures must be timebound so that we are able to assess if we are reaching our targets,” Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka suggested.
She also highlighted the importance of a strong skills base if the sector is to achieve its goals. “A strong legislature requires critical skills that will enhance the work it does. Some of the skills required include strong legislation drafting skills, policy analysis and skilled people that will enhance the constitutional imperative of public consultation. These skills are also important in that where there is a gap in the quality of public representatives, they will be able to intervene and assist,” Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka emphasised.
In closing, the former Deputy President suggested that the adoption of this smart framework will result in a legislative sector that is able to utilise the tool of oversight effectively to overcome many of the social ills facing the country.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Walking its talk: ‘SAP runs SAP’ – as outlined at SAPHILA 2023
SUN CITY, North West Province – July 28, 2023 – As the second day of the SAPHILA 2023 conference – the African SAP User Group’s (AFSUG) official biennial conference for SAP users – opened, delegates were able to find out more on how SAP has addressed its own digital transformation to most powerful effect. SAPHILA …