MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Kabelo Mulaudzi is confident of yet another podium finish when he takes on the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K on National Heritage Day, Tuesday 24 September 2024. The Boxer Athletics Club top runner is encouraged by his current shape after claiming third place at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K on 25 August. …
Motsoaledi calls on pharmacists to play a role in vaccine manufacturing
Department of Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has called on pharmacists to play an active role in vaccine manufacturing as the world grapples with a growing trend of infectious diseases.
“The world is seriously crying for vaccines and medicines – affordable ones for that matter. Should we be squabbling with each other like we did during COVID-19?” the Minister retorted.
The Minister was speaking at the opening of the first-ever Pharmacists International Federation (FIP) Congress held in Cape Town on Monday.
The four-day congress, which kickstarted on Sunday is also part of the Pharmacy Month commemorative activities to raise patient awareness of the vital role pharmacists can play in the community’s healthcare and to improve communication between patients and pharmacists and pharmacy support personnel.
READ | Motsoaledi to open Pharmacists International Federation Congress
“When the need arises for all humanity to be vaccinated, should the vaccines be so scarce that the developed world starts hoarding them for themselves, leaving the still developing world on their own? Surely, we can do better than this and it is within our capability to do better,” he told delegates.
“I have full confidence that in your deliberations, those facts will not just be shoved away and kept under the carpet, for there is a lot at stake for all humanity.”
He told the attendees that he believes that in the next 10 to 15 years the world will have defeated modern-day infectious diseases like HIV and Aids, Ebola, Mpox, tuberculosis, malaria and others.
“But in doing this, as The Lancet states, we shall be ushering in a new era of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). You shall be called again to provide easily accessible and affordable pharmaceuticals to deal with these NCDs, which are, already upon us.
“The question is: are we equal to the job? Shall we rise to the occasion?”
Motsoaledi also touched on the need to address health inequities across the world, urgently strengthening health systems and the need to harness innovation and technology to transform health systems.
The Minister also spoke about the need to invest in sustainable and equitable health financing and using healthcare as a public good and as part of social justice.
“Let us remember that as pharmacists, we are not just being distributors but also serve as instructors, patient safety advocates and important participants in public health campaigns.
“I call upon every one of you to be agents of change,” he stressed.
The Minister challenged the pharmacists to ensure the health systems are not just of good quality but are also equitable and inclusive.
“This is a call to advocate for policies that prioritise the needs of the most vulnerable, and in the process, commit to advancing the pharmacy profession as a driving force for health equity and quality care.”
He also took the time to express his gratitude to the FIP for bringing the congress to Cape Town and to all the delegates for their commitment to improving healthcare through the pharmacy profession.
“We hope that your decisions over the next few days will shape the future of health. I wish you all a productive and inspiring experience at congress, and I look forward to seeing the innovative solutions and partnerships that will emerge from our time together.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 09:29
Satafrika is wild, bro. We’ve mastered the art of turning lemons into lemonade—or rather, loadshedding into load-reduction. We are built for resistance and sometimes, sticking it out means treating yourself. With warmer days and cooler evenings being the modus operandi, there’s no better time for ama-get-together with iskeem sakho, family and loved ones. Introducing the …
IEC publishes political funding disclosure report
The Electoral Commission (IEC) has published the first quarter Political Funding Disclosure Report for the financial year 2024/25.
The report covers the period of 1 April to 30 June 2024.
It is the first report since the inauguration of the seventh parliament and administration following the successful hosting of free and fair 2024 national and provincial elections on 29 May 2024.
The commission in a statement on Monday lauded the political parties who made declarations in the reporting period even though there was no legal basis to do so.
“This act is indicative of these parties’ commitment to transparency in the management of their financial affairs. This can only bode well for electoral democracy in the country.
“Furthermore, the Commission wishes to ask the National Assembly to expeditiously finalise its processes and take a resolution on the thresholds in order for the President to gazette so that the lacuna in the regulations can be ameliorated.”
During this quarter, political parties declared a cumulative amount of nearly R200 000 000. The value of first quarter 2024/25 donation disclosure is comparable to the value of donations declared during the fourth quarter of the past financial year.
“Totalling a colossal R189 950 829, this is by far the highest value of donations across all years and quarters since the introduction of the Political Funding Act, as amended. Once again, a positive correlation between the value of donations declared and the election season are demonstrated,” said the commission.
A total of 14 political parties declared donations during the first quarter of the year. These are:
1. ActionSA – R13 186 000
2. African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) – R240 000
3. African National Congress (ANC) – R26 015 313
4. Build One South Africa (BOSA) – R12 877 709
5. Change Starts Now – R150 000
6. Democratic Alliance (DA) – R56 601 039
7. Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) – R515 313
8. GOOD – R600 000
9. Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) – R38 340 000
10. Independent Civic Organisation of South Africa (ISANCO) – R100 000
11. Patriotic Alliance (PA) – R6 649 900
12. Rise Mzansi – R33 895 000
13. South African Rainbow Alliance (SARA) – R400 000
14. uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP) – R380 555
“While there were few first-time donors during the reporting quarter, a significant number of donors were repeat donors. Furthermore, many of the repeat donors made significant donations across several political parties, targeting mainly new or recently established political parties.” – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 09:51
Operation Shanela nets 13 949 suspects
Operation Shanela continues to make its mark in the fight against crime with the police having arrested 13 949 suspects in the past week.
“Through detectives and crime intelligence tracing operations, roadblocks as well as stop and searches, police have taken a bold and decisive approach in protecting the communities that they serve,” said the South African Police Service (SAPS) in a statement on Monday.
The suspects were netted in operations that got underway on Monday, 26 August up until Sunday, 01 September.
This as all Operation Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of the respective nine provinces.
During the week-long operations, 4 233 wanted suspects for crimes such as murder, rape, possession of illegal firearms and business robberies were arrested while 117 suspects were arrested for murder. An additional 118 suspects were arrested for attempted murder.
A total 280 suspects were arrested for rape, with 116 of them arrested in KwaZulu Natal.
Hundred and sixty suspects were nabbed for the illegal possession of firearms while 1463 people were held for assault: grievous bodily harm (GBH).
Meanwhile, 442 suspects were arrested for the illegal dealing in liquor and 145 drug dealers were arrested during this period. Among others, 82 illegal miners were arrested with 52 of these arrests being made in the Free State.
Successes made also include the confiscation of 164 firearms as well as the recovery of 52 hijacked and stolen vehicles.
“Four extortionists were fatally wounded during a confrontation with police in Milnerton, Western Cape. Four others are under police guard in hospital. Five firearms were seized at the scene. Gauteng police arrested a suspect after the discovery of a cloned police vehicle believed to have been used in a spate of truck hijackings and courier vehicle robberies in the Gauteng province.
“Police will continue with their operations in stamping the authority of the state to ensure the safety and security of all people living in South Africa,” said the SAPS. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 10:01
DP to visit Limpopo to assess state of Giyani water projects
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Friday visit Limpopo to assess progress achieved in various intervention projects undertaken to improve water services in the Greater Giyani Local Municipality.
The Deputy President will conduct the visit as Chairperson of the task team established to address water challenges in various areas of the country.
The task team is an institutional coordinating mechanism, which brings together key role players within government to provide leadership and technical assistance towards the resolution of challenges in water services in the country.
“The two-day oversight visit is aimed at ensuring that there is access to functional basic water supply infrastructure for the surrounding communities of Giyani, as well as to deal with the long-standing challenges of water backlog in the area,” a statement by the Presidency said.
The visit will include a walkabout at the Nandoni Dam Pump Station and then the delegation will proceed to assess other projects, including a Canal at Xikukwana, Giyani Water Treatment Works, and a reticulation project at Nwakhuwani.
Deputy President Mashatile will also lead an engagement with members of the surrounding communities at the Thomo Community Hall to outline progress achieved by government in improving the reliability of water services to the area and promote transparency on water issues affecting different communities.
The Deputy President will be accompanied by the Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, Deputy Ministers David Mahlobo and Isaac Seitlholo, Limpopo Acting Premier Basikopo Makamu, Members of the Limpopo Provincial Executive Council, district and local Mayors as well as traditional leadership representatives. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 10:04
September is a month of renewal and positive change. It’s also when South Africa celebrates Heart Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to make impactful lifestyle choices that improve heart health. As it stands, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of SA cites cardiovascular disease as the second-leading cause of death in the country, responsible …
Eager to learn who’ll be the best of the best? That decision is up to you… Between now and midnight on 11 September 2024, you can cast your vote for your favourite store or restaurant in the V&A Waterfront People’s Choice Awards. By doing so, you could win a R3 500 V&A voucher to celebrate …
Chikunga pays tribute to Thabiso Sikwane and Jessica Mbangeni
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has lauded the late broadcaster Thabiso Sikwane and Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni’s roles as advocates for women empowerment.
The renowned media broadcaster, Thabiso Sikwane, and praise singer, musician and church Bishop, Jessica Mbangeni, both passed away on Saturday, adding to the list of personalities the country recently lost during Women's Month.
Paying tribute, Chikunga said Sikwane and Mbangeni were the epitome of hope to many women and girls in South Africa, particularly those in the creative and art sector.
“We drop our heads and spears to the ground at the two women who have contributed to the development and transformation of art by carrying the message of socio-economic empowerment of women and girls to end gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) to the world.
“They have served as role models, showing women and girls that they too can express themselves and make an impact by breaking barriers through achieving recognition for future generations and inspiring them to be at the forefront of social change,” Chikunga said.
She noted that through mediums including radio music, literature, visual arts and performance, these women made a significant impact, by challenging norms, and inspiring action on social issues.
“We should continue to advocate and mainstream for socio-economic empowerment of women and girls through government programs such as the Young Creatives Programme that encourage women and youth to get involved in community activism to foster social cohesion, nation-building, and patriotism by investing in the creative economy to end poverty among women and girls,” Chikunga said.
The Minister extended her sincere condolences to the Sikwane and Mbangeni families. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 10:12
1 September 2024, Cape Town, South Africa – Gumtree South Africa (Gumtree SA) has once again revolutionised the online classifieds experience, this time with the launch of Pay & Ship, a secure payment and delivery solution. By prioritising user safety and convenience, this innovative development reinforces Gumtree’s commitment to being the country’s ‘most trusted online …
Justice Minister to appear in Parliament over VBS allegations
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, is expected to appear before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development this week following reports that she indirectly benefited from the VBS Mutual Bank scandal.
Last week, allegations surfaced in the media that Simelane, while she was Mayor of Polokwane Municipality in Limpopo, received at least R500 000 in a loan from an individual intimately linked to VBS bank.
Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development Chairperson, Xola Nqola, said the allegations have a bearing on the perception of South Africa’s fight against corruption.
“The committee has noted with grave concern the serious allegations in media reports regarding an alleged loan to the Minister. These types of allegations are damaging to the image that South Africa is trying to portray as a country ridding itself of any form of corruption.
“We therefore thought it prudent to call the Minister speedily to a committee meeting where she can take Parliament and South Africans into confidence regarding these allegations,” he said on Monday.
During a question and answer session in the National Assembly last week, Simelane committed to appearing before Parliament.
“Permit me to start by making a commitment to this house on my availability with regard to the response, if any is needed by the house, or the committee or the Public Protector on the issues that are doing the rounds,” she said at the time.
The Minister is expected to appear before the committee on Friday.
Following the allegations last week, the Presidency said President Cyril Ramaphosa has requested a “detailed report and briefing from the Minister on the matter”.
READ | President requests briefing and report from Justice Minister
– SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 09:58
The digital age has transformed the way we shop, offering the convenience of purchasing everything from electronics to household items from the comfort of our homes. This article explores the diverse range of products available through online shopping platforms, highlighting their features and benefits. Tech Gadgets and Accessories Tech enthusiasts can find a plethora …
As the shift towards sustainable transportation accelerates, the demand for efficient electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions is becoming more crucial. This article explores the significance of EV chargers and their role in supporting the adoption of electric vehicles. Introduction to Electric Vehicle Charging Electric vehicles are at the forefront of an automotive revolution, offering …
IOL says it will not apologise and is applying for leave to appeal the ruling
Checkers teams up with healthy eating advocate Jamie Oliver to endorse Discovery Vitality HealthyFood partnership Checkers has joined forces with world-renowned chef and healthy eating advocate Jamie Olivier to endorse its new partnership with Discovery Vitality’s HealthyFood benefit that officially launches on 1 September. Oliver, an outspoken advocate for healthy eating, believes the Checkers HealthyFood …
The Totalsports Women’s Race has much to celebrate in 2024. Each of the three events drew record-breaking numbers, with a combined total of 30 000 runners (7500 in Durban, 12 500 in Cape Town, and 10 000 in Joburg) participating during Women’s Month. In addition to this remarkable turnout, the event proudly raised an impressive …
Government, Municipality and Councilor Fail to Deliver on Aid, Leaving Families Homeless and Desperate. The Molokohlo River has long been a ticking time bomb, with flooding a recurring nightmare for residents. For years, the community has warned of the danger posed by the river’s neglect. Yet, their cries have fallen on deaf ears. The government’s …
KwaZulu-Natal, Durban: Clermont Township, once a middle income township and thriving community, has descended into chaos as crime and violence grip its streets. On 25 January last year, three people were shot dead on Zazi Road, near Pinetown. The victims, two men who sold cow heads for a living, were killed at their roadside stalls, …
Acting President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has extended heartfelt congratulations to several South African sportsmen and women for their exceptional achievements over the past weekend.
Their victories have ushered the nation into the spring season, filled with hope and a renewed sense of national pride.
"Sports have a unique ability to bring South Africans together and uplift the nation's spirits, even amidst our challenges," said Acting President Mashatile.
"The incredible performances by our athletes this past weekend serves as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the indomitable spirit of our people."
The weekend's achievements highlights include: Mpumelelo Mhlongo who secured a gold medal in his 100m event, while Bayanda Walaza made history in Peru, becoming the fastest young man on earth with the remarkable times of 10.19 seconds in the 100m sprint and 20.52 seconds in the 200m sprint.
Also in Peru, Hannah Van Niekerk won a silver medal in Kima 400 m hurdles in the World U20 tournament.
In team sports, the National Rugby Team, the Springboks (Boks) defeated New Zealands All Blacks 31-27, while Stellenbosch FC and Orlando Pirates proceeded to the Final of the MTN 8 Cup.
These remarkable results demonstrate the athletes' prowess, showcasing the strength and talent of South African athletes on both local and international stages.
"The triumphs of Mhlongo, Walaza, and our esteemed sports teams are not just victories for them but for every South African who finds joy, pride, and unity in our nation's sporting successes," Acting President Mashatile added.
"We celebrate these achievements and look forward to many more moments of national pride and joy."
Acting President Mashatile concluded by emphasizing the power of sports in fostering unity and hope, urging all South Africans to continue supporting and celebrating their athletes as they represent the country on various platforms worldwide.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
KwaZulu-Natal, Durban: In the heart of Clermont Township, a concerning trend is unfolding. Youth fresh out of high school, are disengaging from education, abandoning their dreams, and succumbing to a life of stagnation. This phenomenon is not only alarming but also threatens the future growth and development of our township. The statistics are staggering. Every …
SA20 and Cricket South Africa (CSA) are proud to announce the launch of Schools SA20, designed to discover and nurture...
Fuel prices to decrease once again in September
All grades of fuel are expected to decrease this week bringing relief to cash strapped South African consumers.
This was announced by the Department of Minerals and Petroleum Resources on Monday.
The price decreases are as follows:
• Petrol 93 (ULP & LRP): 92 cents decrease
• Petrol 95 (ULP & LRP): 92 cents decrease
• Diesel (0.05% sulphur): 79 cents decrease
• Diesel (0.005% sulphur): R1.05 decrease
• Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): R1,03 decrease
• Single Maximum National Retail Price for illuminating paraffin: R1.38 decrease
• Maximum LPGas Retail Price: 10 cents decrease
This means that a litre of 95 petrol, which currently costs R23.11 in Gauteng, will now cost R22.19 cents a litre as of Wednesday.
In a statement on Monday, the department explained the international and local factors leading to the price adjustments for this month.
“The average Brent Crude oil price decreased from 83.55 US Dollars (USD) to 78.54 USD per barrel, during the period under review. The main contributing factors are the increased production from major oil-producing countries despite lower demand concerns, and the anticipated interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve.
“The average international petroleum product prices decreased on average during the period under review in line with lower crude oil prices. This led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol by 85.59 cents a litre and 78.40 cents a litre, diesel by 93.55 cents a litre and 67.63 cents a litre and illuminating paraffin by 91.86 cents a litre, respectively.
“The Rand appreciated on average, against the US Dollar (from 18.23 to 18.05 Rand per USD) during the period under review when compared to the previous one. This led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of all products by over 10.00 cents per litre,” the department said.
The price adjustments are expected to take effect from Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 09/02/2024 - 11:39
Water is a vital resource for all life on Earth, covering around 71% of the planet. It is crucial to conserve water to ensure we have enough fresh, clean water and to prevent water shortage and drought. This article provides tips on how to save water in your garden. If you save water, water saves …
Eskom sub-contractor employee convicted of corruption, bribery
An Eskom Rotek Industries sub-contractor employee has been sentenced to at least four years imprisonment following his conviction on two counts of bribery and corruption.
Selby Magagula was sentenced in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court in August.
Acting General Manager for Security at Eskom, Botse Sikhwitshi, welcomed the conviction and sentencing.
“The conviction of the suspect is a positive step in our continuous efforts to fight crime, fraud, and corruption, and to maintain the highest standards of integrity within the organisation.
“We commend the coal company’s team for their vigilance, as well as our internal security team and the law enforcement agencies. Their efforts, coordinated and led by the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM) Safety and Security Priority Committee, play a crucial role in supporting Eskom’s fight against criminal activities,” Sikhwitshi said.
The power utility explained that Magagula attempted to solicit a bribe from a truck driver who was delivering coal to Camden Power Station.
“On 26 September 2023, while on duty at the power station’s coal stockyard, Mr Magagula accused a coal truck driver of delivering coal mixed with rocks. He entered the truck cab and produced three pieces of rock, claiming they were part of the coal meant for delivery. He informed the driver that this issue would result in grounding all trucks, with three trucks already in the queue.
“Magagula then demanded that the driver contact his employer. The driver reached out to his supervisor at the coal transporting company, who then spoke to Mr Magagula. During this conversation, Mr Magagula solicited a bribe of R6 000 to allow the coal to be offloaded. Despite the supervisor not agreeing to his demands, the trucks were eventually allowed to offload the coal. This conversation was recorded by the truck’s fleet vehicle camera system.
“An internal Eskom investigation confirmed that Mr Magagula had indeed solicited a bribe from the hauler and his supervisor. It was also established that the coal delivered met Eskom’s specifications, contrary to Mr Magagula’s claims,” Eskom said.
He was arrested at the Camden Power Station on 11 October 2023.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any information related to unlawful activities, including illegal electricity sales, fraud, theft of coal, fuel oil, diesel and critical infrastructure crimes to the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 09/02/2024 - 12:22