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Pretoria, South Africa – Homeowners often rely on their dishwashers to simplify daily chores, so when the appliance leaves standing water at the bottom, it can be both frustrating and inconvenient. Appliance Repairs Centre, with over 38 years of experience in appliance servicing and repairs, has seen it all. The company is now sharing expert …
With the plethora of AI tools available – each of them promising to make your life easier, richer and more fun we at MyPR have to say that we are still on the fence as to which one is our favourite. Of course if you show us one that is for free that is the …
Minister Meth attends 2nd BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers meeting in Russia
Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth is today attending the 2nd Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Labour and Employment Ministers Meeting (LEMM) in Sochi, Russia.
The Ministers from different countries will share experiences and good practice on priorities during the two-day meeting which commenced on Monday and concludes today.
International organisations such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Social Security Association provide technical support to the LEMM.
Priorities discussed at the gathering, include the development of a system of vocational guidance and lifelong professional education for the entire population; the role in the labour market and the problems of regulating the work of platform workers; ensuring safe work and social security for employees and the development of social support for citizens of the BRICS countries.
“The gathering is important for South Africa, as the main objective is to facilitate cross-collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and monitoring and evaluation, in achieving our goals,” Minister Meth said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 13:55
On the 8th of September 2024, Mall of the South brought together key partners, stakeholders, and government officials for the #Holler event 2024, to stand united against human trafficking. The event supported the Home of Hope for Girls, a non-profit providing a safe haven for children and teenagers who have experienced abuse, particularly in cases …
Labour Minister pleased with bargaining council collective agreement
Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has congratulated all the parties at the South African Local Government Bargaining Council (SALGBC), for concluding a multi-year collective agreement.
The landmark five-year agreement signed by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) which represents 257 municipalities nationwide, the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) as well as the Independent Municipal and Allied Trade Union (IMATU), will see employees receiving a 6% salary increase effective 1 July 2024, and an additional 1.5% from 1 March 2025.
The department also commended the parties for concluding the collective agreement that provides certainty to the labour market and assures service delivery to communities.
The agreement sets a positive precedent for future negotiations and demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative problem-solving.
Furthermore, the department said it underscores the importance of maintaining open communication channels and working towards mutually beneficial solutions.
Such agreements not only enhance trust between employers and employees but also contribute to the overall well-being of the broader community, it said.
Furthermore, the department said the successful resolution of this bargaining process reflects a commitment to sustainable development and social cohesion.
“It is encouraging to see parties using social dialogue to resolve their differences. This affirms the truth that social dialogue remains a crucial vehicle for resolving labour market disputes peacefully. When collective bargaining is free from violence and damage to property, it creates labour market stability, which is crucial for attracting the required investment to combat poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
“By addressing the needs and concerns of both parties through constructive dialogue, the agreement paves the way for a more harmonious and productive working environment. This approach will undoubtedly benefit all stakeholders and foster a more resilient labour market,” Meth said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 14:14
The Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources has expressed its relief at hearing that TotalEnergies remains a major player in the South African energy sector.
The committee expressed this view after it was briefed by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources on the impact of TotalEnergies' withdrawal from Block 11B/12B, off the country's southern coastline, and Block 5/6/7 off the West Coast.
Although regretting the cessation on projects with huge potential economic spinoffs to the country, the committee was encouraged that TotalEnergies is still involved in exploration work in South Africa at Block 3B/4B of the orange basin in the West Coast.
The committee is also comforted to hear that Block 11B/12B and Bock 5/6/7 have sufficient resource reserves still open to be explored by other investors.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Join The Upside this September. Do you have a story to share about how you choose to #JoinTheUpside? We want to hear how you made the most of a hard-luck moment or how you’re inspiring your community… from helping yourself to helping others join the upside! Share it in the comments on our social media …
Justice Minister appears before Parliamentary Committee on State Capture data access
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Thembi Simelane has reiterated the department’s commitment to working with the National Prosecuting Authority Investigative Directorate (NPA ID) on the matter of the data of the State Capture Commission.
In August, reports surfaced claiming that the department was hampering the work of the NPA ID by blocking access to the data centre.
The department is the legal custodian of all the assets of the Commission, including the data centre.
Speaking at a meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development on Tuesday, Simelane said she remains willing to look into the matter.
“I am here because you have called me to account and I’ll always do that. I have not met anyone to block anything. I made a commitment that I am willing to relook into the matter. I can’t block anyone.”
She said she still needed to be taken to the data centre to verify it. “If they say it is sitting in the department, I will say open that room.”
“I have even tried to ascertain with the DG if there are any outstanding requests that have been made by the NPA or any of the state agencies that need any information with regard to State Capture so that at least, I’ll make sure that everything is up to date and try to look into the processes and statements…[that] were agreed,” Simelane said.
NPA National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Shamila Batohi said the ID requires “unhindered access” in order to fulfil its duties.
“When we talk about access, we talk about unhindered access to the archives but I hasten to add, working within the legal and Constitutional requirements. The ID has been provided levels of access but not the access that it needs,” Batohi said.
In a statement last month, the department said it had responded to requests for data from law enforcement.
It clarified that cooperation between the Ministry and Investigating Directorate of the NPA remain cordial and professional.
“On the 31st of July 2024, the Ministry met with a number of the entities of the department, and it pledged its unwavering commitment to support the work of the NPA and its Investigative Directorate.
“The Commission’s secretariat has consistently supplied the requested data and documents.
“The Secretariat has positively responded to data requests from various law enforcement agencies, including the NPA’s ID, DPCI [Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations], Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU), Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), South African Revenue Service (SARS), Special Investigating Unit (SIU), and some state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
“The remaining staff that is experienced in data science and programming, continue to support ongoing projects,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 14:33
Join The Upside. Do you have a story to share about how you choose to #JoinTheUpside? We want to hear how you made the most of a hard-luck moment or how you’re inspiring your community… from helping yourself to helping others join the upside! Share it in the comments on our social media pages, tag …
Rural food hubs to improve EC food security
The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) plans to establish food hubs in rural areas, which will enable subsistence and home-based vegetable producers to collect, store and process their produce for the local market.
Unpacking the department’s food security plans for this term on Tuesday, Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, said the department will support communities to grow their own food through home-based gardens and improving food access and income.
“This initiative will focus on sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and youth entrepreneurship in rural areas. Investing in our people will reduce living costs and promote self-sufficiency, thus community resilience,” she said.
Kontsiwe noted that the department is part of a coordinated effort by the provincial government to contribute to eradicating poverty and malnutrition in the province.
She acknowledged that the department alone cannot solve the food security issue, noting that despite having various programs and initiatives, the lack of a unified strategy has led to a fragmented and less effective approach.
The Office of the Premier has coordinated government departments and agencies to develop a Provincial Food and Nutrition Security Plan, and the department’s primary goal is to guarantee food security in the province.
The MEC said the department is committed to support people to cultivate the land, regardless of its size, and produce their own food.
She said the initiative will focus on sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and youth entrepreneurship in rural areas.
According to Kontsiwe, investing in people will reduce living costs and promote self-sufficiency and community resilience.
The department is planning to expand household food production in rural and peri-urban areas on a large scale.
She said the initiative will include establishing small-scale vegetable nurseries to provide high-quality seedlings, which will reduce production costs.
“DRDAR and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) are collaborating to support 42 000 households (30 000 from the Siyazondla Program and 12 000 from PES3) in growing their own food in the 2024/25 financial year.
“We invite all sectors of society to join us in addressing food insecurity and malnutrition in districts, metros, local municipalities, and wards. We are fast-tracking the spring water protection program to ensure villages have access to water for food production,” the MEC said.
For the 2024-25 financial year, the department plans to implement 10 spring water projects in five districts, including two in Alfred Nzo, Amathole, Chris Hani, Joe Gqabi, and OR Tambo.
The MEC highlighted that in the previous 2023/24 financial year, the department successfully completed 10 projects, installing 290 taps in 12 villages, benefiting 2 263 households and creating 729 jobs.
Embracing innovation and technology
Kontsiwe emphasised the importance of embracing innovation and technology to reduce production costs and mitigate the impact of climate change.
She said the department will this financial year launch a pilot program, which will see the installation of 14 tunnels with 3 720 climate-smart boxes in all districts and colleges.
The MEC said this initiative will allow vegetable producers to cultivate crops throughout the year in a controlled environment.
“We anticipate that this project will encourage more young people and women to engage in agriculture in our province. We invite people of all ages, including elders, churches, schools, health facilities, and traditional leaders, to support and promote community food production.
“We will collaborate with the private sector to assist households in growing their own food. These initiatives will be carefully planned, organised into projects, and implemented gradually with available resources,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 14:36
Centurion, South Africa – Sports and physical activities play a vital role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, whether you’re an aspiring young athlete or an adult striving for fitness. However, along with the thrill of sports, injuries often occur, ranging from minor sprains and strains to more severe conditions like fractures and tendonitis. Thankfully, chiropractic …
SA-Germany to place trade and investment under the spotlight
The promotion of trade and investment linkages between South Africa and Germany will come under the spotlight at an event that will be held on Thursday.
This as the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), will host a network event in partnership with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Change as well as the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
The Partnering in Business with Germany network event will be held over two days at the Southern Sun Sandton in Gauteng from 12-13 September 2024.
“The global programme is designed to promote trade and investment linkages between Germany and South Africa,” said the dtic.
In April, the dtic and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Change signed a Joint Declaration on Cooperation to formalise a programme to train and mentor emerging exporters from South Africa to access the German market.
In a statement on Tuesday, dtic Deputy Director-General for Exports, Lerato Mataboge, said the programme’s objectives is to capacitate small medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and emerging exporters by allowing them to forge successful business ties with Germany towards securing export orders and investment.
Mataboge pointed out that the programme targets companies to become more resilient through diversification, and also to assist companies that have so far had little experience with foreign markets to internationalise.
“The Partnering in Business with Germany programme focuses on imparting skills required for international business relations and developing companies to be ready for cooperation with German enterprises. In turn the programme also reduces risks and transaction costs for German companies looking at new markets.
“Through the programme participants are prepared to enter the German market and brought into contact with German firms interested in doing business with South Africa. As part of the successful collaboration between the two Ministries an alumni networking event is also held annually. The inaugural event took place in 2023 in Cape Town, attended by 60 past beneficiaries of the programme,” she explained.
The partnership with the German Ministry to mentor South African companies, has resulted in 234 companies traveling to Germany to experience German business culture and engage with potential export partners. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 15:05
Sungrow, a global leader in renewable energy solutions, is pleased to announce the resounding success of its participation in Solar & Storage Live, Cape Town’s premier renewable energy exhibition held last week. The event marked a significant milestone in Sungrow’s commitment to driving the energy transition in South Africa, showcasing the company’s advanced solar and …
Work underway to prevent truck congestion in Richards Bay
A team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate will work with municipalities and stakeholders, including Transnet, to prevent truck congestion from the N2 highway leading to the Port of Richards Bay.
This was among the commitments made during a meeting held by the KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements Departments.
Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, recently met with the management and all categories of staff from both departments working in King Cetshwayo, Zululand and UMkhanyakude Districts.
The meeting aimed to ensure that the two departments work collectively to accelerate the construction of roads and human settlements for the benefit of communities.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Duma said the stakeholders have decided to act decisively as the issue of truck congestion is resurfacing. Other stakeholders include the Road Freight Association and Zululand Chamber of Business.
“In addition, we commit to work with Transnet and Richards Bay Bulk Terminal to ensure safe and effective movement of coal destined for exports. Our roads have been damaged and created challenges such as truck related accidents that continue to claim innocent lives.
“There is a special team of traffic officers, uTalagu, that has been assigned to monitor the movements of trucks. Addressing these challenges means that as government we must invest in the development of infrastructure to accommodate the movement of goods and people,” Duma explained.
A need for all stakeholders to work hard to improve the railway networks and tap into aviation and maritime sectors to facilitate the movement of goods, was also emphasised.
He noted that the province is not only a construction site but strategically located along the longest coastline in Africa.
“This means that our economy is driven largely through the transport and logistics sectors based on the two major ports housed in the province, namely the Port of Richards Bay and the Port of Durban.
“Both ports are economically strategic not only to the province of KwaZulu-Natal, but also to the national economy of South Africa since they are linked to the economic heartland of South Africa, Gauteng, via road and rail networks.”
The MEC said the Port of Durban is also a transit point for cross border container traffic for neighbouring countries - a gateway to Southern Africa.
“The Ports of Richards Bay and Durban are important contributors to international trade and a significant enabler for South Africa’s and the province’s economic development. We are working with national government to ensure the expansion of road networks - the N2 and N3, along with our ports,” Duma said.
Apart from speeding up construction of houses for communities, the MEC acknowledged that there will be a growing demand for human settlements and pressure on road networks.
He added that with Richards Bay Industrial Economic Zone being a haven for foreign direct investment and a site for energy infrastructure, the province must be ready to be the host of the 3 000 MW gas-to-power plant to be constructed by power utility Eskom. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 11:28
TechNvst, a prominent innovation commercialization firm based in South Africa, has announced an exciting new collaboration with Microsoft through the African Transformation Office (ATO) to launch the TechNvst AI Startups Uhuru Program. This new initiative is set to transform the landscape for AI-focused startups across Africa by providing them with essential resources and strategic support. …
DPWI rejects report on Sarah Baartman Centre of Remembrance
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has rejected a joint report by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure and the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture on the completion of the Sarah Baartman Centre of Remembrance in Hankey, Eastern Cape.
The report was presented to the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture on Tuesday morning.
According to the department, Macpherson will soon be meeting with Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie to establish a way forward.
The Sarah Baartman Centre of Remembrance has been plagued by delays since a tender for its construction was issued in April 2014, and to date millions have been spent on the project, but construction remains 37% completed.
“In my discussions with Minister McKenzie, we both agree that the progress which has been achieved in the centre remains wholly inadequate and that serious action needs to be taken to limit any further wastage of taxpayer money.
“Not only have both departments failed to brief the Ministers on the report presented to Parliament, but it furthermore is simply unacceptable that despite three contractors being involved in the project over a period of 10 years, construction has not even been halfway completed with further delays expected,” Macpherson said.
He said the life of Sarah Baartman “remains an important reminder of our painful past, and it is therefore imperative that we give her the respect and dignity she deserves”.
“However, the work which has been done at the Remembrance Centre thus far fails to honour her memory and has instead become a problem which continues to cost taxpayers millions. This simply must end,” the Minister said.
Macpherson emphasised that a meeting with Minister McKenzie will help to resolve any concerns while developing a joint vision of how the construction of the project can be completed in the shortest timeframe possible, thereby possibly providing solutions that can be replicated at other memorial projects across South Africa.
“For too long, the South African State and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure as implementing agents have spent millions on memorial projects just for the projects to remain incomplete or fall into a state of disrepair.
“This era of this fruitless expenditure has to come to an end, and I know that both Minister McKenzie and I are committed to achieving this goal. Let us Build South Africa,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 11:36
Step into a world where art and luxury collide at the stunning @Sandton Hotel. Until 31 December 31 2024, visitors to the hotel can experience the powerful and thought-provoking sculpture exhibition, “Take a Stand”, which is part of the renowned Rooftop XI series by The Viewing Room Gallery. Curated by the talented duo, Sammy Muller …
Vaal River cleared of water lettuce, water hyacinth
The Department of Water and Sanitation has officially opened the boating season on the Vaal River, marking a significant achievement in the battle against the invasive aquatic plants that had been causing challenges.
Boaters and recreational enthusiasts gathered at Stonehaven on the Vaal at the weekend to commemorate the milestone and enjoy the pristine waters.
The department said with the removal of the water lettuce and water hyacinth, the river is now free of invasive plants, allowing for a safer and more enjoyable boating experience.
For several months, the Vaal River had been plagued by the rapid spread of water lettuce and water hyacinth.
“These invasive species had taken over large areas of the river, choking out native plant life and disrupting the ecosystem. The situation was exacerbated by high levels of pollution in the river catchment, which fuelled the growth of these plants,” the department said.
The department took action to address the issue in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Vaal River Community and Rand Water.
Through a combined effort, water lettuce and water hyacinth were successfully removed, allowing the river to start the process of recovery.
To prevent a reoccurrence of this problem, the department has appointed and funded Rand Water to implement a proactive preventative program.
“This program aims to ensure that the Vaal River Barrage reservoir never experiences the same level of invasive aquatic weed coverage again. By taking a proactive approach, the department hopes to mitigate future infestations and protect the ecological health of the river,” the department said.
The restoration of the Vaal River is not only important for the preservation of the environment, but also for the well-being of the communities that rely on it.
“As the river regains its biodiversity and becomes cleaner, it will provide a healthier habitat for aquatic life and become a more attractive destination for outdoor activities.
“Moreover, the improved ecological health of the river will have a positive impact on local businesses that depend on the river for tourism and recreational activities.
“The successful removal of the water lettuce and water hyacinth on the Vaal River is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of various stakeholders. The efforts put forth by the DWS, Rand Water, and the Vaal River Community have shown that with a united front, it is possible to overcome environmental challenges and restore the natural beauty of our waterways,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 12:26
Suspects arrested in countrywide Operation Shanela crackdown
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has over the past week arrested 13 691 suspects in nationwide Operation Shanela operations.
The arrests were made from Monday to Sunday, 08 September, in various operations that included roadblocks and stop and searches.
According to the SAPS, 1 953 wanted suspects for crimes such as murder, rape, possession of illegal firearms and business robberies were arrested while 149 suspects were arrested for murder.
A total 179 suspects were arrested for rape of which 76 of them were arrested in KwaZulu-Natal while 161 suspects were arrested for being in the illegal possession of firearms.
“Assault GBH [grievous bodily harm] continues to register a large number of arrests with 1 536 suspects arrested,” said the police in a statement on Monday.
In addition, 271 drug dealers were arrested during this period while 404 people were arrested for drunk driving, 107 while 1 460 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs.
Meanwhile, 137 firearms were confiscated during operations and 5 922 rounds of ammunition were also confiscated.
“Highlights of major takedowns include six CIT [cash-in-transit] armed robbers [who] were killed in Germiston and three kidnappers [were] arrested in Ennerdale, Gauteng.”
In addition, three alleged extortionists were shot and killed at the National Intervention Unit (NIU) base in Mthatha following an attack on NIU members at the police unit base.
READ | SAPS to 'deal decisively' with extortionists
In addition, six extortionists were shot and killed in Durban through confrontation with police.
All Operation Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 09:23
After 12 years in the radio industry, “Hip-Hop mom” and supermom of six children, Lebang Kgosana has finally made it to the big leagues and is set to begin hosting a brand-new drive time show, “The Driver’s seat with Lebang Kgosana” on Johannesburg based radio station, 919fm from the 2nd of September 2024. Previously known …
Cape Town makes progress in delivering title deeds
Significant progress has been made towards the delivery of title deeds to qualifying residents, says the City of Cape Town.
Speaking during the handover of title deeds to qualifying residents in Elsies River, the City’s MEC for Human Settlements, Carl Pophaim said approximately 12 000 title deeds need to be delivered to qualifying residents.
“The city is making significant progress towards reaching this goal, one title deed at a time. The city has made significant progress with its title deeds programme and over recent months, we have delivered title deeds in communities across the city.
“[The] City’s Human Settlements title deeds programme has been the cornerstone of the city’s work to empower communities, by promoting home ownership and sustainable development in communities,” Pophaim explained, adding that more beneficiaries will be empowered.
City teams will also explore innovative ways to help more residents to ensure that more families have security of tenure and access to opportunities.
“The City’s Human Settlements Directorate has demonstrated its commitment to creating a more inclusive society with this innovative programme. We are grateful for the support of our communities and all stakeholders for assisting us in making this programme a success.
“We have many more title deeds to deliver to qualifying residents and we will be reaching many more areas in the weeks to come.”
Pophaim has encouraged residents to reach out to the city to find out more about the title deeds programme.
What you need to know
If you or a family member is a beneficiary of a city unit without a title deed, here is what you need to do:
• Identify the easily recognisable title deed agents visiting your area.
• Have the following documents ready: owner ID and spouse ID (if applicable), marriage certificate (if applicable).
• In the event of a death, provide a letter of authority and death certificate.
If you missed the team, bring along the required documents and visit the department at the Cape Town Civic Centre, 2nd Floor Human Settlements Kiosk Monday to Friday between 9am – 12pm.
For more information or if you want to verify that the agents are legitimate, contact 021 444 0333 or email title.deeds@capetown.gov.za or visit your local housing office.
The title deed email request must include the following information:
Subject: Erf number and Area
Body of the email:
• Name and surname: (The name in which the title deed is registered)
• ID number and
• address.
For more information, contact the Human Settlements Call Centre on 021 444 0333 business hours: Monday to Friday between 07:30am and 16:30pm. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 10:28
Start your engines, Bat-fans! We’re gearing up for the turbocharged return of Bam and the Batwheels crew, with Season 2 premiering on Batman Day, Saturday, 21 September, at 07:30 CAT. Get ready to zoom into action with these super-vehicles operating out of the extraordinary Batcave, deep beneath Wayne Manor, as they speed through new adventures, …
World-renowned football federation, the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) in partnership with VFS Global (www.VFSglobal.com), concluded extensive coaching courses held in Stellenbosch and in Durban earlier this year. The initiative is in line with VFS Global's community outreach initiatives across the globe with a focus on youth empowerment and skill development.
The KNVB-accredited course conducted under its WorldCoaches Programme in partnership with SAFA eThekwini, saw a total of 56 coaches from across Durban and Cape Town, with almost 50% of the participants being women. The coaches were accredited with a globally recognised certificate, as part of KNVB's WorldCoaches global drive of using football to drive social development.
The five-day workshop saw the coaches being exposed to the latest global trends of youth coaching and equipped with the necessary tools and information to be role models in their respective communities. In addition to tactical knowledge empowerment, key societal topics such as child protection, leadership, and social change formed part of the learning process for the coaches. The course hosted over 265 participating players throughout the two weeks, allowing the coaches to put together sessions they had learnt from the instructors into practice.
“This was truly an eye-opening experience for our coaches. Most of them are keen to learn and empower themselves, and thanks to such a programme, our region is not only producing future coaches. but key role models for our communities, thanks to KNVB”, said SAFA eThekwini Technical Director, Maxwell Ndlovu.
Speaking on behalf of the KNVB, instructor Bert Zuurman said the reception and eagerness shown by the coaches were encouraging and indicative of a bright youth football future for the region.
“We are honoured to share our knowledge and experience with these coaches, who are not just coaches but are now role models. Our programmes are uniquely designed to make use of football as a driver for social change, and it is important that our coaches are receptive to both the tactical and social development divisions of the programme. We wish all the coaches the best of luck, and sincerely thank SAFA eThekwini for providing us with the platform”, said Johan van Geijn, Founder of KNVB WorldCoaches.
“Through this programme, we are not only equipping coaches with the latest in football tactics but also instilling in them a sense of social responsibility. Through such initiatives that also empower young people to stay in school, we're shaping not just athletes, but future leaders by providing coaches with the tools to be role models. Our investment in South Africa underscores our dedication to youth empowerment worldwide, harnessing sports to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future”, added Nadia Wicks, Head of Operations- Southern Africa, VFS Global.
The goal of the WorldCoaches program is to give participants critical thinking skills and resources required to make critical decisions both on and off the field.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VFS Global.
Media Contact:
George Cherian
Corporate Communications
VFS Global
georgec@vfsglobal.com / communications@vfsglobal.com
Further Enquiries:
Puncho Morajane
puncho@forwardzone.com
071 199 7858
About VFS Global:
As the world's leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.
With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 68 client governments. Operating over 3,400 Application Centres in 153 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 294 million applications since 2001.
Headquartered in Zurich and majority owned through investment funds managed by Blackstone Inc, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.
About KNVB – WorldCoaches:
WorldCoaches is a programme based on the KNVB's extensive international coaching experience and its belief that no matter where in the world, football can be used as a means for social development. Our trained WorldCoaches play a key role in this by inspiring and coaching children in their athletic and social development.
During WorldCoaches courses, youth are trained to become football coaches and role models in their own community. In doing so, the WorldCoaches programme focuses on three themes that directly contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These are: personal development, health and social cohesion. The SDGs were set by the United Nations and aim to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. As such, through the unique and universal appeal of football, the KNVB attempts to reduce the impact of various social challenges and aims to contribute to a better society.
Demarcation Board embarks on ward delimitation process consultations
In a deliberate effort to enhance understanding of demarcation processes, the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) is conducting consultations to educate stakeholders about the ward delimitation process.
According to the MDB, these consultations are held in all municipalities, targeting traditional leadership, ward councillors, ward committees, municipal officials, and other stakeholders.
Every five years, the MDB delimit wards preceding the Local Government Elections (LGE) in compliance with the Municipal Structures Act (MSA) 117 of 1998, as amended.
“The next LGE will be held in 2026. The plan is to hand over the final wards to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) towards the end of 2025.
“It should be noted that over the years, there has been a sharp increase in the number of voters resulting in a proportional increase in the number of wards in municipalities. Consequently, this results in a change in the configuration of wards in municipalities,” the MDB explained.
Wards are delimited by the MDB and entail the division of the whole geographic area of a municipality into smaller geographic areas, called wards.
According to the organisation, Schedule 1 of the MSA provides for certain procedures and criteria to which the MDB must comply.
The MDB must, amongst others, ensure that all wards in a municipality have approximately the same number of voters.
The number of registered voters in each ward, may not vary by more than 15% from the norm.
The norm is determined by dividing the total number of registered voters on the municipality’s segment of the national common voters roll by the number of wards in the municipality.
In a municipality with 30 000 voters and 10 wards, the average number of voters per ward would be 3 000. A variation of 15% can be added or deducted, resulting in a range of 2 550 to 3 450 voters per ward in this municipality.
The organisation said the education and awareness drive commenced in July 2024 to allow stakeholders sufficient time to understand the process and be able to participate effectively during the ward delimitation process and make informed inputs.
The agency will now embark on the nationwide public consultations to be conducted for the same purpose.
“Once the draft wards are drawn, intensive community consultations will be rolled out to obtain public views before the process is finalised.”
This process is expected to take place between March and April 2025.
Although, the consultations by way of public meetings are not legislated as per the MSA, it will be conducted to reflect MDBs resolve to enhance its public engagement processes.
“The MDB remains committed to driving meaningful public consultations and that all affected communities are empowered to actively participate in demarcation processes.
“This will enable them to make informed decisions that will enhance spatial democracy, access to economic opportunities and efficient delivery of services,” said Chairperson of the Board, Thabo Manyoni. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 11:09