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In various sectors, pumps play a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of liquids and gases, driving critical processes, and ensuring efficiency and productivity. From irrigating vast agricultural fields to processing food, extracting minerals, managing municipal water systems, supporting industrial operations, and enabling refrigeration, specialized pumps are at the heart of vital systems. This blog …
DWS commends water entity for outstanding service delivery
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has applauded Siza Water, a water service provider in the iLembe District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, for outstanding provision of water services in the district for the past 25 years.
Mahlobo was speaking during the anniversary celebration of the South African Water Works (SAWW) company, Siza Water, which took place on Friday in Zimbali.
“I cannot understate the significance of Siza Water's commitment to local empowerment and transformation.
“As a 100% South African-owned water utility, with the majority shareholder, South African Water Works, which is also majority black-owned, Siza Water embodies the spirit of inclusivity and socio-economic development.
“Proudly managed by South Africans, particularly from previously disadvantaged groups, Siza Water has become a beacon of hope, demonstrating that diversity is not just a buzzword but a cornerstone of sustainable growth and prosperity,” said Mahlobo.
Mahlobo lauded the achievements of the water utility received over the years, such as being recognised as the Best Performing Water Service Provider in 2014 through the Department of Water and Sanitation’s Blue Drop Certification Programme, to receiving the prestigious Wilson Award of Excellence from the Water Institute of South Africa between 2010 and 2018, amongst others.
Mahlobo said Siza Water has consistently raised the bar for operational efficiency, environmental stewardship and service delivery.
“Siza Water's innovative approach to wastewater management, exemplified by the design, construction, and operation of a state-of-the-art direct reuse plant, underscores its dedication to sustainability and resource conservation,” he said.
With two Green Drop Awards and commendations from the Department of Water and Sanitation for its exemplary sewer systems management, Siza Water has set a benchmark for environmental responsibility and public health protection.
Mahlobo said beyond the realm of awards and accolades, Siza Water's impact extends far and wide, touching the lives of communities and individuals across South Africa.
“We have experienced this through the strategic investments exceeding R725 million over the past 25 years. Siza Water has not only facilitated uninterrupted development but also created hundreds of job opportunities, empowering local communities and driving socio-economic progress,” he said.
Mahlobo reaffirmed the water sector’s commitment for collaboration, innovation and sustainability, with emphasis placed on collaborative work, leveraging on collective expertise and resources to address the challenges of water scarcity, climate change, and social inequality. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 14:03
By President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah (www.RugbyAfrique.com).
Saturday April 6 marks International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. As we reflect on this day, it is crucial to explore the potential impact of sport in Africa. The African Development Bank projects that Africa is set to grow to 2.4 billion people by 2050. Therefore, prioritizing an investment in human potential is crucial, as it will define the future of the continent. Africa can harness the power of sport to champion human potential, serving as a tool to drive the African continent towards greatness for generations to come.
Sport serves as a universal language, through popularity it can transcend cultural, social, economic and political barriers. This year's theme: ‘Sport for the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies' holds particular relevance in Africa. The impact of sport has the power to unite individuals, bringing joy to participants and spectators alike. Yet the true power of sport, lies in its ability to transform societies. South Africa's Springboks, fourth time Rugby World Champions, are a testament of the unifying influence of Rugby. During the 2023 Rugby World Cup, the entire African continent united in support of South Africa on the global stage, highlighting a collective passion to celebrate and develop talent emerging from the continent itself. Whether on the field or pitch, the power of sports is visible. It fuels economic development through the flourishing sports tourism industry. It empowers youth by instilling positive values. It champions gender equality, breaking down barriers and eradicating stigma. It fosters social inclusion, promoting tolerance and easing tensions in divisive environments.
The African Development Bank reports that Africa will remain the world youngest region, with a median age of 25. An investment in the youth is crucial for the sustainability of Africa, as a prosperous Africa paves the way to peace. Within the realm of sports, Rugby emerges as unique pathway to empower the youth. Anchored in values of teamwork, unity, integrity, passion, solidarity and discipline, Rugby serves as cornerstones for personal and professional development with enduring impact. Ultimately, early exposure to sports will prepare the youth of Africa to become leaders and ambassadors of positive change in their communities. It is our duty to equip the next generation to not only navigate the challenges of uncertainty and competitiveness but to thrive amidst them, fostering a brighter future for Africa and inspire generations to come.
In a society marked by divisions, sport cultivates an inclusive landscape. The passion for the games takes priority, differences are not seen as obstacles, but rather as opportunities for greatness. Rugby's embrace of diversity, turning differences into strengths has the powerful impact of breaking down the societal norms that women are often subjected to. For example, the South African women's national rugby team, where players exhibit a remarkable 33 cm height differential from the shortest to the tallest player, and a significant 61 kg weight gap separates the lightest from the heaviest members. When compared to the realm of football, the contrast becomes even starker. The South African women's national football team boasts a considerably more consistent size and shape among its players, with a mere 12 cm height range and a modest 27 kg weight variance. This inclusivity cultivates a sense of unity and belonging that transcends borders and celebrates the diversity of humans, nurturing a sense of self-worth, fostering long term empowerment, while creating lifelong friendships.
Beyond social impact, sport can function as a powerful catalyst for economic growth and international dialogue. Through strategic investments in sports infrastructure and competition frameworks, we forge the way for economic opportunities, generating employment and awakening local economies in host nations. Sports tourism emerges as a magnet, drawing travellers from around the globe with the economic purchasing power to experience Africa's diverse and rich cultural heritage. It acts as a unifying force, fostering connections among people of different backgrounds and nationalities. As enthusiasm for sports grows, it not only attracts local spectators but ultimately attracting attention on regional and national stages. This shared love for sports becomes a platform for cultural exchange, promoting understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives. In this way, sport serves as more than entertainment; it is bridge that connects people and creates ties to the community, fostering unity and collaboration.
Aligning with the pursuit of the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals, Africa has the opportunity to tap into the transformative power of sports, acting as a key to unlock the full potential of the continent. This can only be achieved if governments take local action and assume accountability to harness the full potential of Rugby in reducing inequality, empowering the next generation and igniting a new age of inclusivity. We must collectively drive change, recognizing that investing in Africa's future is our shared responsibility. This calls for collaboration among all stakeholders, with a long-term commitment to funding, policy development, infrastructure enhancement and the advancement of competition structures. On this International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, let us not only embrace the power of sports to reshape our societies but let us actively engage on unleashing it. Sport possesses the remarkable ability to positively impact our world, a source of hope, uniting people in ways that few other forces can achieve.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com
About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
Nxesi launches skills training programme to assist unemployed citizens
Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, has launched a skills training and entrepreneurship programme designed to benefit the youth and the unemployed in the country.
The programme will afford Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) beneficiaries and unemployed youth with an opportunity to be integrated into the labour market or start their own businesses.
Nxesi announced the launch of the Unemployment Insurance Fund Labour Activation Programme (LAP) during a media briefing held in Pretoria on Thursday.
LAP was established within the UIF to enhance the department’s mandate through enhancing the employability of the unemployed through training; enable entrepreneurship through enterprise development; preserve jobs through the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) and Productivity SA, and collaborate across government departments and entities to massify jobs, skills training and enterprise creation.
Nxesi said an amount of R23.8 billion will be allocated to implement this plan.
“Opportunities will run between 12 and 36 months. The money invested in the plan will be recouped by the UIF through contributions and revenue generated from investments, as has been the sustainability model of the fund.
“The spread of our implementation nationally will be across every province, with 333 recommended projects to provide seven training, small enterprise support and employment opportunities to 704 000 unemployed people,” Nxesi explained.
Nxesi said the department is collaborating across with other government departments and entities to massify jobs.
“As early as next week, we will be talking about a joint programme with the Department of Higher Education and Training, and Small Business, which is also a collaboration with the programme we are talking about today,” Nxesi said.
The Minister assured that the projects have all been subjected to meticulous quality assurance processes to ensure that they are compliant with the policy and legislation.
“There are necessary controls in place, there is capacity and necessary resources in place, and these programmes produce the real outcomes in terms of the jobs and at a perineural scheme or prospect.
“Employability interventions are delivered through contracts with the condition that they guaranteed jobs for beneficiaries with a minimum period of employment of one year post intervention,” Nxesi said.
Nxesi said he hopes the companies and industries will contribute significantly to the sectors, including agriculture, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), construction, engineering, manufacturing, education, transport, and mining.
The first roll-out of LAP projects will be launched in Gauteng with the provincial government on 6 April 2024, followed by KwaZulu-Natal on 16 April, Western Cape 17 April, Eastern Cape 19 April, Free State 22 April, North West 23 April, and Mpumalanga on 24 April 2024.
The launch will also move to Limpopo on 30 April, with the last roll-out to take place in the Northern Cape on 9 May 2024.
The programme will be offered to people across all ages. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 04/05/2024 - 09:54
Pratliperl® has been developed by Pratley to promote sustainability in the construction industry. “We have always been committed to sustainability and energy efficiency, especially in terms of infrastructure development and energy savings,” comments Pratley Marketing Director Eldon Kruger. Pratliperl® is a naturally occurring mineral aggregate for plaster and screeds that can assist contractors and developers …
Mathe Group’s Hammarsdale facility, which recycles approximately 1 000 radial truck tyres per day to produce 45 tons of rubber crumb, is a pivotal export hub. Although many of its products are distributed internationally, the innovative rubber flooring solutions which helped establish this growing company in the first place, continue to highlight its global reach …
Decorating a room is always exciting, but nothing comes quite as close as the joy of decorating a nursery. But a precious new life also comes with great responsibility, including creating a nurturing environment for the latest member of the family. There are ways to ensure this becomes a reality – one of which is …
Program to provide STEM and problem-solving skills to students across continent; Students to compete for chance to attend major regional industry conference; Aims to develop the next generation of African thinkers and workforce.
The ExxonMobil Foundation and JA Africa have launched the "ExxonMobil STEM Africa” initiative, a $300,000 program to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for approximately 3,000 African students across Nigeria, Namibia, Angola and Mozambique.
The program will prepare middle and high school students for future STEM careers through immersive quizzes and hands-on experiences at Innovation Camps. The camps, delivered by JA Africa, will teach new approaches to addressing STEM-related challenges.
“Growing students' STEM skills is key in developing the next generation of problem solvers across Africa,” ExxonMobil Foundation President Alvin Abraham said. “We're excited to see how these young minds apply what they've learned through our program.”
Teams who present the best STEM solutions will represent their countries at a major regional industry conference in Cape Town, South Africa. Students will gain cross-cultural exposure, learn about energy from a global perspective and showcase their ideas while connecting with industry leaders.
“In an era where technology and innovation propel the global economy forward, Africa's position at the forefront of technological advancements is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and sustainable development,” said JA Africa President and CEO Simi Nwogugu. “We are grateful to the ExxonMobil Foundation for this partnership to nurture STEM competencies to shape Africa's future."
To learn more about the program, visit https://ExxonMobilSTEMsAfrica.org/
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of JA Africa.
About ExxonMobil Foundation:
The ExxonMobil Foundation is the primary philanthropic arm of Exxon Mobil Corporation in the United States. The Foundation engages in a range of philanthropic initiatives in areas where the company operates around the world, with a strategic focus on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.
About JA Africa:
As one of Africa's largest and most impactful youth-serving NGOs, JA Africa delivers hands-on, immersive learning in work readiness, financial health, entrepreneurship, sustainability, STEM, economics, citizenship, ethics, and more. JA Africa has a presence in 16 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and collectively we reach more than 900,000 youth in more than 3,000 schools each year. JA Africa Works in Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, DRC, Eswatini, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Learn more at www.JA-Africa.org.
Amidst South Africa’s dynamic service sector, Snupit stands out as a leading online marketplace app, seamlessly linking customers to local service professionals. Collectively, businesses on Snupit have been able to generate over 1 billion rand through the platform, a testament to its effectiveness in driving business growth and sustainability. Businesses that have mastered the art …
President Ramaphosa to unveil KZN terminal and Tetra Pak Manufacturing plant
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to officially open the Newlyn PX Terminal and the Tetra Pak Manufacturing plant in KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday as part of South Africa’s investment drive.
These entities made pledges through the South African Investment Conference, an initiative led by President Ramaphosa with the ambitious goal of attracting R1.2 trillion in investments over five years.
“The multi modal rail terminal in Bayhead next to the port of Durban pledged R2 billion for the development of the largest multi modal rail terminal in Africa and has completed the last phase of the development exceeding the initial pledge by R2.6 billion.
“The entity has over the last 26 years demonstrated its commitment as well as significant financial, technical and human resource development in developing transformational logistics infrastructure along the country’s major trade corridors,” the Presidency said in a statement.
Furthermore, the terminal is considered a leading development for logistics.
“The terminal has also been recognised as [a] flagship development expanding the logistics capacity of the country as well as enhancing global competitiveness as part of the critical NATCOR trade corridor linking Johannesburg to the port of Durban.
“The development will further facilitate an integrated ecosystem yielding benefits to freight owners, Transnet and logistics service providers. This will also accelerate government’s objective of migrating of cargo from road to rail,” the statement read.
The Presidency highlighted that in 2022, the Tetra Pak Group invested more than R500 million in the manufacturing plant in KwaZulu-Natal. Tetra Pak is the world’s leading food processing and packaging company with a presence in more than 155 countries.
“Post the investment, the manufacturing plant is now the only state-of-the-art facility in Africa producing carton asceptic packaging for the domestic market and Africa export; meeting standards of sustainability; supporting a circular economy and propelling industrial growth.
“These investments will form a critical industrial base for South Africa’s recent commencement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), for export opportunities,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 04/02/2024 - 09:19
In today’s rapidly evolving world of e-commerce, one thing is abundantly clear: the receiver holds the reins. It’s the receiver—the customer—who ultimately dictates the trends and expectations that shape the industry. And, as someone deeply entrenched in the e-commerce landscape, I can confidently say that what the receiver wants, above all, is certainty when it …
We sent questions to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
But the MDDA’s last clean audit was in 2020/21 and the board chair, flagged by the Nugent Commission, is still in office
Since its launch in the second half of 2022, the eco-focused estate Serenity Hills between Uvongo and Margate has attracted local and international investor attention, with 60% of Phase 1 already sold and buyers taking ownership good news for those looking to invest in property on the KZN South Coast is that the launch of …
Government to work with transport sector for economic growth
Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga has reaffirmed government's commitment to fostering a transport ecosystem that is agile, responsive and adaptable to the evolving needs of society and the changing global landscape.
“Transport plays a critical role in shaping the societal, economic, and spatial landscape of our nation. With mandates spanning across rail, road, civil aviation, maritime, public transport, and macro planning, the Department of Transport and its entities hold a significant responsibility in driving forward the country's developmental agenda,” Chikunga said on Tuesday.
She made these remarks during a strategic workshop for the transport sector, which served as a platform for strategic conversations and dialogue, fostering a shared understanding of mandates and a unified vision for the transport portfolio.
“From roads and highways to railways, airports, and seaports, a well-established transportation network not only facilitates the movement of goods and people but also acts as a catalyst for economic development.
“It is imperative that policymakers, businesses, and communities work together to prioritise sustainable infrastructure development that meets the needs of present and future generations. Only through concerted efforts can we build a transport infrastructure that drives inclusive and sustainable development for all,” Chikunga said.
The Minister outlined key priorities essential for driving the transport sector forward.
These priorities, spanning various facets of transport infrastructure and operations, underscore the government's commitment to enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and accessibility within the transport ecosystem.
She reiterated the importance of revitalising rail infrastructure and operations.
Key priorities in this domain include the recovery of rail major corridors, signalling system, implementation of the station modernisation programme, and expansion and modernisation of rolling stock.
“The recently launched National Rail Policy underscores the necessity for collaborative efforts aimed at fostering transformation and ensuring fair competition within the sector,” she said.
The Minister stressed the importance of finalising key policies such as the Roads Funding Policy and the Public Transport Subsidy Policy.
This being the last strategic workshop for the transport sector in the sixth administration, the workshop undertook a robust review of the mandate analysis of the Department and its entities, review of its achievements in the current term, analysis of the legislative frameworks and the need for its modernisation as well as building of institutional capacity, governance and leadership.
The Minister underscored the importance of transitioning towards greener transport solutions.
Priorities in this domain include developing the Transport Just Transition plan, raising public awareness on the Electric Vehicles (EV) Regulatory Framework, and collaborating with the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) on implementing the Green Transport Strategy. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 03/27/2024 - 10:11
Money might make the world go round, but it also keeps entrepreneurs up at night. It seems as if there is never enough to realize all those big business dreams. But solid planning and a finance team that knows what they’re doing will see financial struggles turn into success. The finance function as a whole …
The Indalo Association’s Stance on Albany Wind Farm: A Call for Comprehensive Evaluation Makhanda, 26 March 2023: In response to recent claims made by EDF Renewables regarding the Albany Wind Farm development, the Indalo Association underscores the need for a thorough and holistic evaluation of the project’s environmental and socio-economic impacts. Statement 1: Scoping & …
African Secret Cream Liqueur, a proud South African brand known for its rich, creamy texture and unique taste, is creating abuzz for its “Secret Hero of Africa” Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiative. This initiative is celebrating the quiet army of dedicated individuals who stand as guardians of its precious wildlife and marine life across the …
Dtic hosts annual Furniture Design Competition Awards
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) is today hosting the annual Furniture Design Competition Awards at the Sandton Convention Centre.
The Furniture Design Competition aims to foster innovation and excellence in South African furniture design and propel careers of young designers.
The competition creates a platform for the development of new, competitive furniture products. It targets design students registered at South African institutions.
This year’s competition centres around the theme: "Celebrating the Outdoors”, encouraging contestants to consider ergonomics, functionality, affordability, and sustainability in their design creations.
Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina says this year’s ceremony will mark a decade of recognising and nurturing design talent within the South African furniture sector and that the awards have played a pivotal role in fostering innovation and excellence in furniture design.
“We are confident and are looking forward to witnessing designs that will not only be aesthetically pleasing but also commercially viable, contributing to the growth of the industry and the expansion of our export market.
“This competition not only propels the careers of young designers, but also serves as a launchpad for the development of new products that contribute to the competitiveness of the South African furniture industry,” she said in a statement on Monday.
Gina said that the South African furniture industry remains an important sector in the economy and is considered to have a huge potential to create jobs and to contribute to increasing exports and the development of small, medium and micro enterprises.
“The design competition is aimed at contributing to the development of the design skills in the furniture sector and it is used as a creative instrument to promote product differentiation and new development.
“This competition also aligns with the recently developed Furniture Industry Masterplan, which outlines a strategic roadmap for the growth and development of the industry,” Gina said.
The ceremony will showcase the work of five design students registered in South African academic institutions and local emerging or established furniture manufacturing companies.
Each finalist responded to the competition's challenges, focusing on designs that prioritise local materials, repurposed elements, and promote a sustainable approach to outdoor furniture.
The event will culminate in the announcement of the category winners, marking a significant milestone in their design journeys. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 03/25/2024 - 08:57
SevenC, a leading IT infrastructure and network service provider striving to identify and make available the best possible ICT strategies for its clients’ unique needs, explores the unique offerings of specific cloud platforms and how businesses can choose the right one. “Chances are, if you’ve navigated the web or used an app recently, you’ve interacted …
Black industrialists part of a broader journey of social, economic transformation
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government, private sector stakeholders and civil society have come together to create an enabling environment for black industrialists to thrive.
“By working hand in hand, we have been able to dismantle barriers, foster mentorship and provide access to markets, funding and resources essential for business growth and sustainability,” President Ramaphosa said.
Addressing the Black Industrialists and Exporters Conference at the Sandton Convention Center on Wednesday, the President said the journey of black industrialists is part of the broader journey of social and economic transformation in South Africa.
“This is evident in the fact that South Africans are living longer than ever before. Life expectancy has increased from 54 years in 2003 to 65 years in 2023. Maternal and infant deaths have declined dramatically,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said households that resided in formal dwellings increased sharply from 65 percent in 1996 to more than 88 percent in 2022.
“Access to electricity for lighting has increased from 58 percent of households in 1996 to nearly 95 percent in 2022. The percentage of persons aged 20 years and older who completed secondary education more than doubled from 16 percent in 1996 to more than 37 percent in 2022.
“Our economy has tripled in size since 1994, and while unemployment still remains high, the number of South Africans in employment increased from eight million in 1994 to over 16.7 million now.
“The proportion of jobs in executive management held by black people increased almost five-fold between 1996 and 2016,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said the progress points to the work the country has undertaken to give effect to the constitutional injunction to promote the achievement of equality.
“And to give effect to the core goals of that legislation, government formally launched the black industrialist programme in 2016,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa said the impact of the investment by the black industrialists is clear from more than R100 billion in turnover generated by these businesses each year and by more than 100 000 direct jobs sustained in their factories, mines and farms.
“Over the course of the last five years, we have worked to deepen these efforts. At the start of this administration in 2019, we began to develop master plans in different sectors of the economy, ranging from clothing to sugar, from autos and steel to poultry.
“These masterplans have specific and dedicated sections dealing with the promotion of black industrialists. The black industrialist programme itself has also gone a long way in promoting meaningful participation in the economy by women, youth and persons with disabilities.
“We need to scale up the number of black industrialists that are supported directly by government through various forms of support, including finance, regulatory measures and partnership arrangements through masterplans,” President Ramaphosa said.
He added that the Department of Small Business Development has supported large numbers of micro and small businesses. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 15:40
Atteridgeville gets smart licensing centre
The Gauteng provincial government has moved licensing services closer to communities, particularly in townships, informal settlements and hostels in Pretoria west with a new smart licensing centre.
“Overall, this initiative has the potential to bring convenience, efficiency, sustainability, and integrity to townships, informal settlements and hostel communities, ultimately transforming lives and contributing to the province's renewal service demands,” MEC for Transport and Logistics Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said on Wednesday.
She was addressing the launch of the smart licensing centre in Atteridgeville, which will expand access to government services, such as licensing services.
“Integrating these smart testing centres into the administration system of the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and offering services like other testing centres across South Africa highlights a commitment to improving public service delivery and increasing capacity to meet the demands of license renewals and related services,” the MEC said.
The centre provides full online and cashless services as part of the provincial government's commitment to exploring new technologies and process optimisation.
It is estimated that the licence renewal service will take approximately 10 minutes, implying that more people will be serviced in the most efficient way possible.
“This innovative concept is a game-changer in Growing Gauteng Together through the Smart Mobility Plan. The centre is also solar-powered; ensuring that even during load shedding, services will continue to be provided. This commitment to sustainability further underscores the forward-thinking approach of the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) in meeting the needs of its communities,” Diale-Tlabela said
The MEC pointed out that corruption in terms of driver's license renewal is caused by 'runners' who demand payments for booking slots on behalf of residents.
“These operations have ceased to be the order of the day at these smart driving licence testing centres (DLTCs). Here, you come as per appointment, and a law enforcer becomes the centre manager. This approach will assist in mitigating serious issues of corruption, making the process fairer and more transparent.
“The involvement of the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) in piloting and rolling out these smart DLTCs along the Gautrain line is a promising approach. The positive feedback from customers at the Centurion station DLTC and others demonstrates the potential success of this model,” the MEC said.
She said launching the initiative in Atteridgeville is a testament to the provincial government’s commitment to act and improve the lives of its residents. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 14:13
Comprehensive intervention to address Johannesburg water challenges
The City of Johannesburg has presented a comprehensive intervention plan to address ongoing water supply challenges in the city.
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, together with his Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, met with Johannesburg City officials, led by Executive Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, to receive an update on the city’s plans to deal with the current water challenges and future water supply sustainability plans for the metro.
The meeting held this week was a follow-up to a meeting held on 5 March 2024, where the department presented a comprehensive assessment report on the state of water provision in the city amid regular water supply interruptions experienced by residents.
At the meeting held on 5 March, the city was requested to come back with an action plan to address all the issues raised in the report, including how it will deal with the infrastructure challenges and non-revenue water, which is contributing to the water supply challenges.
During this week’s meeting, the city presented a wide-ranging plan on immediate, medium- and long-term measures to ensure a sustainable water supply. These include infrastructure projects to refurbish, upgrade and construct new storage reservoirs and pump stations, as well as associated infrastructure to augment storage capacity.
The plan also includes addressing non-revenue water through the implementation of water conservation and demand management technical interventions to reduce demand.
The city also presented technical interventions, which include repairing leaking reservoirs and tower infrastructure; replacing water pipes, domestic and large consumer meters; retrofitting and removal of wasteful devices, and enforcement of by-laws, including removal of illegal connections and customer bypass connections.
Gwamanda said these projects are at various stages of implementation, while others still require funding.
The meeting also heard that the city infrastructure backlog is estimated at around R27 billion but agreed that focus should be on what can be done with the current and upcoming budget in July.
Gwamanda commended the support from Water and Sanitation Ministry, saying that the city is looking at various options to mitigate water supply interruptions.
“We have set aside about R100 million for the electricity supply entity, City Power, to put alternative power supply infrastructure to key infrastructure that contributes to the water supply network,” Gwamanda said.
Mchunu acknowledged the efforts of the city’s water entity, Johannesburg Water, to deal with infrastructure backlogs, and various interventions implemented to deal with the current recurring water outages.
Mchunu urged the city to work on its turnaround time in responding to pipe bursts and leaks in their distribution network, as this contributes to the high physical water losses.
“It is clear that the city requires serious interventions and funding to deal with its water infrastructure renewal programme, and the department will work with Joburg Water in packaging some of their key infrastructure projects that require blended finance, including from the private sector.
“We have agreed, collectively, that over and above the technical interventions to address non-revenue water, there is a serious need for a compressive public awareness campaign to conscientise residents on the importance of water conservation and water use efficiency as part of the Water Conservation and Water Demand Management Strategy,” Mchunu said.
The metro’s non-revenue water currently sits at 46.1%, while the consumption rate is at 280 litres per capita per day. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 10:27
South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala unpacked the country's 2024/2025 infrastructure priorities and project pipeline during a panel session at the Sustainable Infrastructure Development Symposium South Africa (SIDSSA) 2024 in Cape Town on Tuesday.
According to Minister Zikalala, the country's top 12 infrastructure priorities seek to stimulate job creation, promote economic competitiveness and contribute to broadening economic inclusivity.
“We announced the 12 priority projects today and it's important to give a background as to how we arrived at this priority list. We want projects that will contribute to higher GDP impact, but at the same time, ensure export and embrace the green economy,” he stated.
Taking place on March 17-19 at the Century City Conference Center, SIDSSA brings together key stakeholders in South Africa and across the continent with the aim of driving infrastructure development. SIDSSA 2024 serves as a crucial platform for discussions and partnerships in the infrastructure investment landscape, with a focus on accelerating economic activity through strategic infrastructure plans. Energy Capital & Power – the leading investment platform for the African energy sector – is a media partner for this important platform. For more information, visit https://SIDSSA.org.za/.
With support from Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) – a program within the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure – the projects also aim to accelerate private sector-led development. The projects are poised to serve as a catalyst for closing the infrastructure investment gap, while meeting the infrastructure target set out by the government's National Development Plan.
“It was very important for us to ask what we plan to contribute from an operational perspective to all the socioeconomic perspectives outlined by the Minister,” stated Mameetse Masemola, Head of ISA. “We will work very closely with the project sponsors in unpacking the work and once we are ready, we will invite transactional advisors.”
It was noted during the session that shortfalls in operation and maintenance have resulted in the underdevelopment of South Africa's infrastructure strategy. As such, the need to meet end-user's requirements, the mobilization of digital infrastructure and ensuring operational competency were noted as prerequisites to de-risk investment in the sector.
“The projects listed give the catalytic impetus to develop our industry,” stated Wayne Petersen, Director of Transport and Infrastructure at WSP Group. “We have to ensure that the private sector invests strongly in the projects that are implemented.”
Meanwhile, panelists touched on the importance of bankability and sustainability in attracting private sector investment towards infrastructure projects in the country.
“Infrastructure assets are not only about the assets themselves, but also about the economics that surround them,” said Catherine-Candice Koffman, Group Executive for Project Preparation at the Development Bank of Southern Africa. “Bankability is very much about ensuring we have a project that doesn't rely too much on the fiscus. A successful project is one where you use as little budgetary capital to fund the projects as possible.”
For South Africa's infrastructure projects to maintain operational efficiency after completion, it was noted that the country will need to invest in attracting international talent while promoting human capital development, with Partner at PwC Southern Africa Chris van der Merwe stating, “These projects need to strike a balance between economic and social projects.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About SIDSSA 2024:
SIDSSA 2024 is organized by the Investment and Infrastructure Office under the Presidency, in collaboration with the Association of African Exhibition Organizers. The National African Federation for the Building Industry joins as an association partner, while the Development Bank of Southern Africa is the official sponsor of the event.