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Introduction South Africa, a melting pot of cultures and history, offers a tapestry of enriching experiences that cater to wildlife enthusiasts and cultural buffs alike. From the thrilling encounters at the Rhino and Lion Park to the Soweto tours and insightful cultural tours, this guide promises to navigate you through some of the most captivating …
The Beach Palace Ramsgate, a luxurious 5-star guesthouse with stunning views over the Indian Ocean, has been nominated for the prestigious Golden Tree International Travel Award, representing South Africa on the global stage. This nomination is a testament to The Beach Palace’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and unparalleled guest experiences. As a premier guesthouse, The …
Cabinet commends addition of SA sites to UNESCO list
Cabinet has commended the latest addition of the South African human rights and liberation struggle sites in the prestigious list of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites.
The sites in the prestigious list include the Union Buildings, Constitution Hill, Liliesleaf farm, Sharpeville memorial, Walter Sisulu Square, 16 June 1976: The Streets of Orlando West, University of Fort Hare and ZK Matthews House, Mqhekezweni, Waaihoek and Ohlange.
The UNESCO World Heritage Committee also inscribed three Middle Stone Age sites in recognition of South Africa’s significant contribution to the understanding of the origins of modern human behaviour.
These include Diepkloof Rock Shelter close to Elands Bay in the Western Cape, Pinnacle Point Site Complex in Mossel Bay also in the Western Cape and Sibhudu Cave in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal.
“The sites termed as The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites, not only help preserve South Africa’s unique heritage, but catapults our country to prominence as a major tourist attraction for World Heritage Sites, thereby boosting tourism and the economy,” said Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
The Minister was briefing media at a post-Cabinet briefing held in Pretoria on Thursday.
READ | UNESCO inscribes more World Heritage sites for South Africa
South Africans are living longer
Meanwhile, Cabinet has also welcomed the Mid-Year Population Estimates (MYPE) for 2024, which showed that South Africans are living longer.
The MYPE shows that life expectancy has increased to 66.5 years from 53.6 years in 2005 due to multiple government interventions, including the expanded rollout of antiretroviral therapy - which is one of the largest antiretroviral therapy programme in the world.
The estimates also show the provision of vaccinations and the decrease in the infant mortality rate from an estimated 57 infant deaths per 1000 live births in 2002 to 22.9 per 1000 live births in 2024.
“South Africa’s population now exceeded 63 million, growing 1.33 percent from July 2023 to July 2024. The updated population growth figures will assist government in its planning and resource allocation as we continue to better the life of all South Africans,” Ntshavheni said.
High-tech rail infrastructure
Cabinet has also commended the introduction of new high-tech trains on the Central Line in the City of Cape Town by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). PRASA is an agency of the Department of Transport.
The service has been extended from Nyanga to Mandalay station.
Ntshavheni highlighted that the trains utilise modern signalling system from Langa to Mutual Line, to enhance the safety and reliability of the rail service.
“The modern hi-tech features in these trains include automated doors, and CCTVs for each coach are for improved passenger safety,” the Minister said.
Cabinet has further commended the recovery of more rail lines part of government’s priority of providing safe, reliable and affordable public transport.
READ | PRASA introduces new modern trains in Cape Town
This as Cabinet held its first normal meeting of the seventh administration at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:38
Demystify science for the most marginalised - Minister Nzimande
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has insisted that, given South Africa’s – and Africa’s – historical past of discrimination and under development of parts of the population, it is imperative to “demystify science and its purposes and meaning to the lives of all people, especially the most marginalised”.
He was addressing the opening of the 32nd General Assembly of the International Astronomy Union (IAU) in Cape Town on Tuesday evening.
“Astronomy offers such an amazing opportunity to naturalise and indigenise scientific thinking within all our communities. Therefore, it is most fitting that this event will have Open Access features online, to generate scientific interest from the wider public.
“Young people have been appointed as volunteers for this event while others will be presenting their research posters, the General Assembly [GA] satellite viewing sites across Africa and astronomy ambassadors programme that has been launched throughout the continent as one of the legacy projects post the General Assembly,” Nzimande said.
On a continental scale, the Minister said it was in the interests of the international community to “broaden the participation of the African continent in astronomical sciences”.
“I would also like to recognise the efforts made by the IAU Office for Astronomy Development [OAD] and the African Astronomical Society [AfAS], both based in Cape Town in supporting other African countries to take advantage of opportunities in astronomy.
“We also see this Assembly as an opportunity for raising awareness of the IAU within the African science community and encouraging the emergence and professional development of the next generation African scientists.
“The Organising Committee of the 2024 GA has also announced that over 3000 abstracts were submitted, which is an impressive number for such an event and certainly offers an opportunity to share new sources of data and evidence to test through experimental work the explanatory value of the theoretical models developed in recent years,” he said.
A leading light
Minister Nzimande told the general assembly that government’s vision for South African astronomy is to become a “global hub for astronomical sciences and facilities as articulated in our National Strategy for Multiwavelength Astronomy of 2015”.
“The strategy provides a framework to take maximum advantage of South Africa’s historical strengths in astronomy, its geographical advantage of clear southern skies in the Karoo, the engineering and scientific base, large-scale investments in the MeerKAT/SKA endeavour and SALT [Southern African Large Telescope], and South Africa’s growing international ranking and partnerships in astronomy.
“This strategy is currently under review in consultation with the astronomy community so that it can be enhanced in order to take advantage of new opportunities in this era of multi-messenger techniques and technological innovations.
“The MeerKAT/SKA project, in particular, offers us an opportunity to contribute to the knowledge economy and the big data revolution through international collaborations and the pursuit of world-class research, thereby driving transformation and human capacity development. The SKA is the flagship frontier science partnership of the 21st century and South African remains fully committed to it,” he said.
The Minister revealed that the department is working with the Department of Tourism to develop an “astro-tourism sector through community-public-private partnerships in remote parts of South Africa”.
“We are looking forward to the approval of our newly established Astro-Tourism Strategy by Cabinet in the next few months.
“[Tourism] Minister Patricia de Lille and I will soon be co-hosting the Annual World Tourism Day in Carnarvon on 27 September 2024 – and this event will provide us with a unique opportunity to promote the preservation of dark skies and radio silence in the Karoo as this is essential for star-gazing and astro-tourism to thrive and to create jobs,” Minister Nzimande said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 08/07/2024 - 09:37
Introduction For those seeking a unique and culturally enriching experience, gourmet kosher safaris offer an exciting blend of adventure and culinary delight. These safaris combine the thrill of wildlife exploration with the enjoyment of kosher gourmet cuisine, creating an unforgettable experience. What are Gourmet Kosher Safaris? Gourmet kosher safaris are specialised tours that …
Work opportunities and training for unemployed people, says North West Premier
Youth empowerment will be one of the apex priorities of the seventh administration, says North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi.
He announced on Friday that the provincial government was working towards implementing the Labour Activation Plan that will result in 27 000 work opportunities and training to unemployed people with the focus being the youth.
“Through the National Youth Service Fund, we will implement training and skills development opportunities that will benefit over 1 200 young people at the Departments of Public Works and Roads, Social Development, Human Settlement as well as Arts, Culture Sports, and Recreation,” he told the media.
Mokgosi was speaking during the Provincial Annual Media Day launch in Mahikeng.
Currently, he said, the administration is investigating a new model for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to ensure that this programme assists young people with various skills.
The Victor Thebe Sifora Provincial Bursary Scheme will also be resuscitated and that the grant will fund no less than 100 students for the 2025 academic year.
Service delivery
The Premier acknowledged that the province was confronted with many challenges and said they would work hard to “speedily” resolve them.
Mokgosi highlighted the Accelerated Service Delivery Programme - Thuntsha Lerole - which he believes has proven to be an important instrument in expediting the provision of services in municipalities.
“We are ramping up the programme with the implementation of phase four whose focus will be on accountability to allow members of the public to give feedback and report cases of bad or lack of service delivery.
“As mentioned during the address last week, the Executive Council will not hesitate to intervene in any municipality if the situation requires such intervention. There are promising signs of improvements in several interventions already being implemented across municipalities,” he explained.
The province was also working around the clock to create economic opportunities for its citizens as they attend to service delivery concerns.
Through the Special Economic Zone (SEZ), they have so far garnered investment commitments to the tune of R164 billion that will create over 5 000 jobs.
He said they will be rolling out three mega infrastructure projects in water, sanitation, and road infrastructure in the City of Matlosana, J.B Marks and Maquassi Hills local municipalities.
These projects will cost R19 billion and are expected to create over 60 000 work opportunities targeted at the youth and women.
In addition, through the Growth and Developmental Strategy (GDS), Mokgosi said they will initiate the North West Development Fund (NWDF) in partnership with the private sector.
“The setting up of the fund will be arranged in a way that will ensure good governance principles are adhered to whilst ensuring that there are as few impediments as possible to ensure seamless delivery of programmes and projects.”
He announced that the fund will help resuscitate the province’s ailing tourism sector particularly, provincial parks as well as the refurbishment of the George Dick Montshioa and Pilanesberg Airports.
Media Day
The Premier announced that a Media Day will be held annually after the Premier’s State of the Province Address (SOPA) to communicate developmental initiatives of the administration as well as interventions on various socio-economic challenges such as unemployment, poverty and income inequalities afflicting our communities.
His Office will also hold quarterly media sessions to report progress registered in attending to several challenges, remedial action plans and achievements.
“The media plays an important role in keeping our communities abreast of key government programmes that are primarily aimed at changing the lives of our people for the better.
“We affirm and fully support the independence of the media to hold government accountable as enshrined in our Constitution.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/02/2024 - 12:10
Two men attacked by leopard at Air Force Base Hoedspruit
The South African Air Force (SAAF) has confirmed that there was a leopard attack at the Air Force Base (AFB) in Hoedspruit in Limpopo over the weekend.
According to BBC, a leopard attacked two men at a South African air force base that borders the Kruger National Park.
“One of the men, a uniformed air force member, was attacked while out for a run. The other, a civilian working at the base, encountered the leopard while on a walk,” the publication said, adding that the two were admitted to hospital with scratches but no major injuries.
The SAAF said the safety and well-being of their members remains a top priority and that they are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding these incidents.
“We take these matters seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety of all personnel and families stationed at the base.”
In addition, the air force said it was collaborating with wildlife experts and local authorities to assess the situation and implement appropriate measures to mitigate future risks.
“While we understand the concerns raised by this situation, we encourage all personnel to remain vigilant and adhere to safety protocols when engaging with the natural wildlife in the area.”
According to the SAAF, the Acting Officer Commanding AFB Hoedspruit, Colonel Enrico Gherbavaz, has since mobilised the base environmental team to mitigate further risks.
Immediate measures include summoning the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) to trace and monitor the leopard and contacting the Limpopo Department of Economic Development Environment and Tourism (LEDET) and other stakeholders to arrange for the leopard’s safe removal.
“Additionally, communications have been sent out to residents urging vigilance and avoiding solitary outdoor activities.”
The SAAF is working with Ingwe Leopard Research and wildlife veterinarians to ensure the leopard is safely relocated.
“The welfare and safety of the Drakensig community remain the utmost priority as the SAAF works with wildlife experts to resolve this situation.”
The SAAF said further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure a safe environment for everyone at AFB Hoedspruit.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/01/2024 - 09:16
Introduction Soweto, short for South Western Townships, is one of the most historically rich and vibrant areas in Johannesburg. A Soweto tour offers a unique glimpse into South Africa’s past and present, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Johannesburg. The Origins of Soweto Soweto’s origins date back to the early 20th century when …
This is one of five Safe Spaces run by the City of Cape Town
Johannesburg, 29 July 2024: South Africa’s energy landscape is rapidly evolving, with renewable energy – specifically solar and wind – emerging as a significant player in the quest for a sustainable and reliable energy supply. Indications are that between a concerted effort by Eskom to recover underperforming coal fired power plants to higher levels of …
KZN social sector departments get largest chunk of budget
The KwaZulu-Natal Departments of Education, Health and Social Development have been allocated the lion’s share of the provincial budget for the 2024/25 financial year.
Presenting the provincial government budget for the 2024/25 financial year at the KZN Legislature in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday, KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers, announced that the bulk of the provincial budget is allocated to the social sector departments, which received 80% of the provincial budget, while the balance of 20% goes towards funding all the other votes.
“Education receives between R4.1 billion and R4.4 billion per annum over the MTEF [Medium-Term Expenditure Framework], Health receives between R2.6 billion and R2.8 billion per annum over the MTEF, [and] Social Development receives between R134 million and R144 million per annum over the MTEF,” Rodgers said.
Conditional grant allocation increase
Rodgers said the conditional grant allocation has increased by R501.3 million in 2024/25 and reduced by R989.3 million in 2025/26 and R593.5 million in 2026/27.
The budget allocated towards Ilima/Letsema Projects, under the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has been cut by R24.7 million in 2024/25.
The MEC said the cut is due to National Treasury reprioritising the funds towards the Presidential Employment Stimulus.
In aggregate, Rodgers said the province receives R141.4 million through two Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) conditional grants aimed at increasing job creation in the province.
Rodgers said the EPWP Integrated Grant for Provinces and the Social Sector EPWP Incentive Grant for Provinces have been reduced in 2024/25 due to National Treasury reprioritising these funds towards the Presidential Employment Stimulus.
He said these grants were cut by R42 million and R29 million, respectively, against various Votes.
The MEC said the Education Infrastructure Grant has increased by R58.1 million in 2024/25.
Rodgers noted that the grant is incentive based, and the increase is partly due to the incentive allocation where the department scored well, achieving 98% in terms of submitting planning documentation and showing capacity to spend, and thus received an incentive allocation of R89 million.
“The National School Nutrition Programme grant receives an increase of R19 million in 2024/25 to continue with the provision of nutritious meals. The budget for 2024/25 after the increase is R2.2 billion,” the MEC said.
The budget for the Health Facility Revitalisation Grant has also increased by R31.1 million in 2024/25.
Rodgers said the addition to the grant is due to incentive based and the department’s score at 99%, in terms of submitting planning documentation and showing capacity to pend and was allocated R72.9 million. The budget for Health Facility Revitalisation Grant is R1.5 billion in 2024/25.
Significant increase for Provincial Roads Maintenance Grant
The Provincial Roads Maintenance Grant has also seen a significant increase of R691.8 million in 2024/25 for the maintenance and rehabilitation of the provincial road network, as well as repairs to infrastructure damaged by floods.
“The budget for this grant is R3.2 billion after this increase and shows our commitment to improving the provincial road network,” Rodgers said.
The Human Settlements Development Grant has decreased significantly by R268.7 million in 2024/25 to be able to provide funds to the social sector for the 2023 wage agreement carry-through costs.
“The budget for this grant in 2024/25 is R2.5 billion after the budget cut. The Informal Settlements Upgrading Partnership grant also had a large budget cut of R228.6 million in 2024/25, in line with National Treasury’s decision to source funds through reprioritisation to provide funds to the social sector for the 2023 wage agreement carry-through costs.
“This budget cut is carried through over the MTEF and the budget for 2024/25, after the budget cut, is R597.1 million,” Rodgers said.
The Provincial Treasury receives R7.7 million over the MTEF (R2.6 million per annum) towards the costs of upgrading the Biometrics Access Control System to strengthen its security and ransomware features, while Sport, Arts and Culture was allocated R4.1 million for the construction of a monument in honour of the 1860 arrival of the Indian indentured labourers.
“Transport requested that R3 million be suspended from their Vote in 2024/25 for allocation to Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs with respect to sourcing an airport emergency fire and rescue vehicle for the Margate Airport.
“This relates to the ongoing collaboration between these two departments to ensure the successful operation of the provincial regional airports,” Rodgers said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 07/26/2024 - 14:34
The warm winter weather, exquisite venues, and welcoming communities make Durban a prime destination for hosting large-scale events, with 2024 showing off the region’s capabilities. The fun continues from 17 to 28 July as the greater Durban area plays host to the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup, with the support of Durban Tourism. The …
Dept of Tourism informs public of ICT service outage
The Department of Tourism has cautioned stakeholders and the public from accepting emails from the department's domain, until the widespread information and communication technology (ICT) service outage the department is currently experiencing, has been resolved.
“The Department of Tourism would like to inform stakeholders and the public of a service outage that is causing wide spread disruptions to telephone lines, emails and website related services. Our ICT team is working diligently to restore all services,” the department said in a statement on Wednesday.
“Updates will be communicated once services have been restored,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 09:41
Relocation of Walmer flood victims imminent
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor Gary van Niekerk says he is satisfied with the process made to electrify temporary houses in Walmer, Gqeberha, where flood affected families will be relocated.
This comes as the metro is accelerating its efforts to ensure that outstanding work is completed in order to bring normality to the lives of the affected residents.
Van Niekerk said that a total of 20 families will be accommodated in the newly built temporary shelters in Walmer.
"We are happy to see work progressing well, as we updated our residents last week about the work that is underway and upcoming developments. Teams are on site electrifying the bungalows, [and] we are happy with the quality of the structures too.
“Water is already connected, and sanitation services will also be in place by the time the residents move in. We anticipate the electrification work will be completed later this month. Once that is done, the families will move in,” Van Niekerk said.
Van Niekerk said the municipality will continue to monitor progress in Walmer and the Kariega sites, where residents from Lapland will be moved to.
He said the municipality will continue to update the residents on developments so that everyone is "on the same page and there is no confusion".
“We are waiting for the greenlight from DEDEAT [Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism], but our teams are on standby, and as soon as that has been finalised, we are ready to clear the site and commence with the construction work.
“We wish to thank all stakeholders who are working with us and thank our residents for their patience with the work underway,” the Mayor said. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 07/19/2024 - 10:02
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are the ‘nature reserves’ of the sea, conserving marine biodiversity to protect threatened species and ocean health. South Africa is home to some 41 MPAs which play a vital role in ocean conservation, although currently only 5% of the country’s ocean space is protected by these vital areas. In celebration of …
Tucked away in the enchanting Blue Crane Nature Reserve, Brahman Hills has long been a sanctuary for guests seeking a unique blend of luxury and nature. Recently, this award-winning Midlands property received a prestigious 5-star rating for its self-catering cottages from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA). According to Orrin Cottle, CEO of …
The municipal sewage works is one of the main pollution sources
But City of Cape Town says no decision has been taken yet
Incentives for municipalities owing water bills
In a bid to address the water debt owed by municipalities, the Department of Water and Sanitation, including water boards, have strengthened and standardised debt collection processes and put in place incentives for municipalities to pay their water board bills.
Presenting the Water and Sanitation Budget Vote on Friday, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina said the municipal debts to the water boards increased to R21.3 billion by May 2024, posing a major risk to the financial sustainability of the whole water sector.
Majodina said this debt has forced the department to close down the Sedibeng Water Board in 2022 and transfer its functions, including assets and liabilities, to the Vaal Central and Magalies Water Boards.
“The debts owed by municipalities to Sedibeng Water had resulted in it no longer being able to service its own debts and to meet its operational expenditure requirements. However, the transfer of Sedibeng’s operations to the Vaal Central and Magalies Water Boards did not solve the underlying debt problem and the municipal debt continues to grow,” Majodina said.
While non-payment by municipalities poses a threat to the financial sustainability of all the water boards, Majodima said the department is particularly concerned about Magalies Water and Vaal Central Water, which are experiencing an increasing cash flow challenges due to non-payment.
“One of our immediate priorities will therefore be to work with our colleagues in Cabinet, particularly the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, to find a sustainable solution to this problem,” Majodina said.
While acknowledging that not all municipalities are falling behind on their payments, Majodima warned that non-payment by a few municipalities which are served by a particular water board can result in severe financial difficulties for that water board.
During the 2023/24 financial year, the National Government allocated R61.7 billion of water and sanitation-related grants to municipalities to enable the municipalities to address water and sanitation infrastructure backlogs and provide free basic water to the indigent.
Apart from these grants, the water services sector must be self-financing through revenues from the sale of water.
Available infrastructure for other economic activities
To ensure the department’s assets contribute towards the objectives of the Government of National Unity, Majodina said the department would be availing its infrastructure for other economic activities, including promoting tourism and recreation, and reducing the risk of load shedding through the use of dams for generation of hydropower.
The Minister noted that during the last financial year, the department issued an expression of interest to obtain access rights to state dams for tourism and recreation activities, with the aim of promoting economic development, particularly of communities adjacent to dams.
She said the expressions of interest received will be processed during the current financial year.
“In consultation with the Ministry of Energy and Electricity, the department has also issued requests for applications for interested parties to apply for water use authorisations to generate hydropower using water courses and the water resource infrastructure owned by the department.
“This process received interest from over 200 applicants, for generation of 2 845 Megawatts of electricity from the water courses. To date, the department has issued 40 authorisations for floating solar panels, and the remaining applications will be processed in the current financial year,” Majodina said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 14:37
More National Assembly committees elect chairpersons
Thirteen more National Assembly committees have elected their respective chairpersons on Wednesday.
This followed Tuesday’s committee meetings where 16 committees elected their chairpersons.
The members elected to serve as committee chairpersons include:
• Portfolio Committee on Tourism - Lungi Mnganga-Gcabashe.
• Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements - Albert Mammoga Seabi.
• Standing Committee on the Auditor-General - Wouter Wessels.
• Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure - Carol Phiri.
• Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs - Dr Zweli Mkhize.
• Portfolio Committee on Police - Ian Cameron.
• Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture - Joseph McGluwa.
• Portfolio Committee on Higher Education - Walter Tebogo Letsie.
• Standing Committee on Appropriations - Mmusi Maimane.
• Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA) - Songezo Zibi.
• Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development – Masefako Clarah Dikgale.
• Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition - Mzwandile Masina.
• Portfolio Committee on Agriculture - Dina Pule.
• Portfolio Committee on Land and Rural Development - Tsakani Goodness Shiviti.
• Portfolio Committee on Social Development - Bridget Masango.
• Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy - Nomkhosi Mvana.
• Portfolio Committee on Women - Mary-Ann Lindelwa Dunjwa.
The Portfolio Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation postponed its meeting to a later date when it will elect a chairperson.
“The election of the chairpersons of committees paves the way for Members of Parliament to start deliberating on budget votes and other important business of Parliament, which requires the attention of committees,” Parliament said.
The National Council of Provinces will elect their respective chairpersons on Thursday and Friday.
National Council of Provinces elects Deputy Chairperson
Meanwhile, during its plenary session on Tuesday, the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) elected Poobalan Govender to serve as Deputy Chairperson of the Council.
A permanent delegate to the NCOP from KwaZulu-Natal, Poobalan, who is representing the Inkatha Freedom Party, joined the NCOP in the seventh Parliament.
Poobalan has been a Member of the KZN Provincial Legislature since 2014 and served on various committees, including Social Development, Economic Development and Tourism.
As NCOP Deputy Chairperson, he will assist the Chairperson in undertaking her duties, providing strategic leadership and will fill in if the Chairperson is unavailable.
This includes representing Parliament in international multilateral forums and the NCOP in international bilateral forums. The Deputy Chairperson also presides over the meetings of the Council when delegated by the Chairperson when she is not available.
During the same sitting, the Council also elected Denis Ryder as the House Chairperson for Committees and Oversight and Bhekizizwe Radebe as the House Chairperson for International Relations and Members’ Support.
Kolobe Regina Molokomme who is a Permanent Delegate to the NCOP representing Limpopo, was appointed as the Programming Whip.
The NCOP Programming Whip oversees the programme of the House and works jointly with the Presiding Officers to allocate plenary sessions for debates, consideration of legislation and Select Committee reports.
The Council also designated the NCOP Chairperson, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, the Chief Whip, Kenneth Mmoiemang, and delegates, Advocate Inkosi Mwelo Nonkonyana, and Nicholas Gotsell to serve on the Judicial Services Commission (JSC).
In terms of the Magistrates Act of 1993, the Council designated the following members to serve on the Magistrates Commission:
• Solomon Patrick Mabilo: (Ms Desery Fienies, alternate);
• Makhi Feni (Ms Mary Ndlangisa-Nodada, alternate); and
• Sylvia Nxumalo (Mr Mtikeni Patrick Sibande, alternate).
Mtshweni-Tsipane was elected as a permanent trustee to serve on the Board of Trustees of the Political Office-Bearers Pension Fund, with Advocate Nonkonyana as an alternate.
The rules of the Political Office-Bearers Pension Fund require that, following general elections, Permanent Delegates to the NCOP must elect one Permanent Delegate as trustee and one that will serve as an alternate on the Board. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 07/11/2024 - 10:30
Tourism businesses on the stunning Sapphire Coast in KwaZulu-Natal took home 5 awards at the 3rd Durban Tourism Business Awards ceremony held at the Durban ICC on 13 June 2024. This is a testament to the diverse offerings found along this coastal stretch extending from Athlone Park in the North to Clansthal in the South. …
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
In a heartfelt effort to make a difference to the underserved community in the south of Johannesburg, Mall of the South is proud to announce its continued partnership with the SOJO Business and Tourism Helping Hands Foundation on the 18th of July at the MOMO’s upliftment centre. Together with the help of local organisations and …
The Yokhuselo Haven in Gqeberha is dedicated to offering refuge and assistance to individuals experiencing abuse, homelessness, or other forms of crisis. The primary mission of the haven is to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can find solace, guidance, and resources to help them navigate their difficulties. The haven offers a range …