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News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
The annual Waterblommetjie Festival returns on Saturday 7 September. Windmeul Kelder and Rhebokskloof Estate outside Paarl will host a fun-filled day of festivities suitable for the whole family. The waterblommetjie (also known as Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos, Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae) is an indigenous delicacy that is only found in the Boland area of …
Access to safe and professional abortion services is a critical aspect of healthcare. In areas like Soweto, Randfontein, and Germiston, finding a reliable abortion clinic is important for those who need it. Understanding the Role of Abortion Clinics Abortion clinics provide essential services for individuals seeking to terminate a pregnancy safely and legally. These …
Government activities for the week 26 - 30 August 2024
On Monday, 26 August, Minister of Human Settlements Mmamoloko Kubayi briefs media on plans to assist the struggling gap market to access affordable housing at Ronnie Mamoepa Media Centre.
Also on Monday, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Professor Blade Nzimande will open the 7th BIO Africa Convention.
On Tuesday, 27 August, Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe will hold a media briefing to provide details of the damage caused by the recent veld fires in the province.
On Wednesday, 28 August, there are no confirmed events.
Thursday, 29 August, is the start of National Arbor Week.
On Friday, 30 August, there are no confirmed events.
Janine
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 11:40
In the dynamic world of marketing and advertising, standing out at trade shows, exhibitions, and promotional events is crucial. One of the most effective tools in a marketer’s arsenal for achieving this is the use of banners. Among the various types of banners, retractable banners offer a blend of visibility, convenience, and professionalism that can …
President Ramaphosa assigns responsibilities for certain SOEs
Line function Ministers will now bear shareholder responsibility for certain State-owned enterprises (SOEs) that previously fell under the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE).
This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed proclamations transferring the administration, powers and functions entrusted by the specified legislation as follows:
Furthermore, the Presidency said in a statement, certain sections of the Overvaal Resorts Limited Act of 1993 and Overvaal Resorts Limited Act Repeal Act of 2019 are “vested with the Minister of Water and Sanitation”.
President Ramaphosa has also signed a proclamation appointing Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, as the executive authority of the DPE.
“[The department] will continue to exist and operate until the human and financial resources are transferred appropriately. This appointment empowers the Minister to exercise with respect to DPE all relevant powers and functions under the Public Service Act of 1994 and the Public Finance Management Act of 1999.
“The Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation has also been assigned the responsibility to finalise the National State Enterprise Bill, which will set out the exercise of shareholder responsibility for respective SOEs, which will be transferred in a phased manner into the envisaged national enterprise holding company,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 11:44
The streets of Jozi are set to come alive with athletic energy and community spirit on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, as thousands of runners gather to participate in one of the city’s most iconic Heritage Day celebrations, the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. “The final event in a series of five, the Absa …
Municipalities must be at "driving seat" of clean energy
Municipalities are at the centre of government’s efforts to move towards clean energy and fulfil the country’s commitment to global climate change.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was addressing the opening ceremony of the Municipal Just Energy Transition (JET) Conference held in Johannesburg on Monday.
The President highlighted that South Africa’s 257 metropolitan, district and local municipalities “own and operate approximately half of South Africa’s electricity distribution grid and facilitate universal access to electricity”.
“One hundred and sixty five municipalities are electricity service providers. Through the Integrated National Electrification Programme grant, municipalities are responsible for addressing the electrification backlog.
“Municipalities therefore need to be in the driving seat when it comes to providing clean, affordable energy to communities, businesses and industry,” the President highlighted.
WATCH |
In this regard, South Africa’s Cabinet approved the JET Investment Plan, which has a dedicated municipal portfolio roadmap with three areas of focus.
These are:
On the first area of focus, the President said the recent promulgation of the Electricity Regulation Amendment “paves the way for a new, competitive electricity market.
“The reforms contained in the law must help to speed up decarbonisation. But more than that, they must result in a better deal for households and businesses.
“The national climate change effort must not come at a higher cost for electricity users. South African households, like many around the world, are battling with the rising cost of living, including the cost of energy.
“We must therefore ensure that the energy transition does not contribute to energy poverty. It must not deepen inequality,” President Ramaphosa insisted.
In terms of sustainable financing for electricity infrastructure, he said municipal grid system needs to be upgraded, modernised and extended.
“The energy generation of the future requires systems that are fundamentally different in terms of design, capability and operation.
“Smart metering will have to accommodate the increased penetration of renewable energy at different scales. It will need to facilitate wheeling and feed-in by small-scale embedded generation.
“Massive investment is needed to ensure optimal grid control, safety and energy storage. This investment will need to draw on both public and private sources of capital,” he said.
Turning to how the capacity of municipalities can be strengthened, President Ramaphosa said extensive training and upskilling of officials will be the order of the day.
“New systems will be required to identify human resource, technical capacity and other needs within municipalities, and plan and budget accordingly.
“Municipalities will need to adopt best practice when it comes to the design and implementation of programmes and projects,” he said.
The President told conference delegates that the country’s drive towards a lower carbon intensive economy does not only reside with government.
“A just energy transition is about promoting economic diversification, transformation and industrialisation in the renewable energy sector that empowers workers, marginalised communities and black businesses.
“The achievement of defined just energy transition outcomes at a municipal level requires supportive policies and leadership, good governance and a coordinated effort among all relevant institutions.
“As government, business, labour and civil society, let us deepen our collaboration to achieve an energy future that is secure and sustainable for all,” President Ramaphosa said.
READ | SA committed to meeting climate change undertakings
– SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 11:13
In the hospitality industry, guest comfort is a top priority, and the quality of bedding and towels plays a significant part in achieving this. From the choice of mattress protectors to the selection of hotel linen and blankets, each element contributes to the overall experience. Mattress Protectors: A Key Component of Hotel Bedding Mattress …
Get ready for an electrifying return of the Kat Gilardi and Manila von Teez Drag Show at Bay Harbour Market on 20 August 2024! Fresh off their appearance on the Showmax series Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap. Kat and Manila’s preparation for this show is nothing short of meticulous. Every element, from the song choices …
Gauteng’s Murray Park Library to get a new lease on life
The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) has commenced with the construction of the long-awaited upgrades to the Murray Park Library, located in Malvern, Johannesburg.
The JDA has commenced with the construction on behalf of the City of Johannesburg's Community Development Department.
First opened in 1957, Murray Park Library has been a cornerstone of knowledge and community engagement for over six decades.
Recognising its importance as a hub for education and enrichment, the JDA spearheads a comprehensive redevelopment project to modernise and revitalise the beloved institution.
“The upgrade of Murray Park Library is part of the Inner City Eastern Gateway Urban Development Framework, reflecting the City's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and services for its residents.
Upon completion, the renovated library will serve as a beacon of learning and culture for Malvern and surrounding communities,” said the agency in a statement.
JDA Executive Manager for Project Implementation Siyabonga Genu said the agency is excited about the upgrades.
“This project underscores our commitment to creating inclusive spaces that foster lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and community cohesion.
“Through thoughtful design and meticulous planning, we aim to deliver a modern, accessible library facility that will be a source of pride for generations to come," he said.
Key features of the upgrade
The upgrade project will be done in two phases, with phase one focusing on foundational elements and phase two concentrating on constructing the two-story library structure.
Phase 1, scheduled for implementation in the 2024/2025 financial year, encompasses critical groundwork such as site clearance, construction of retaining walls, and foundational preparations.
Phase 2 will see the construction of the state-of-the-art library facility, spanning approximately 2000m². The ground floor will feature a general library space, a study area for children, meeting rooms, study centres, and essential amenities.
The first floor will accommodate a teenage section, activity centre, e-learning area, and additional facilities. The exterior enhancements will include landscaping, paving, lighting, and parking facilities.
Moreover, the upgrade project emphasises sustainability and accessibility, with provisions for solar panels, upgraded power supply capacity, and facilities for persons with disabilities.
Community impact
According to the JDA, the upgraded Murray Park Library will serve as a dynamic community resource, offering world-class library and information services to residents of all ages.
From providing access to literature and educational resources to fostering a vibrant space for cultural exchange and lifelong learning, the new library will enrich the lives of a diverse population. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 09:57
The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa) (www.Meltwater.org), in collaboration with the Norwegian Embassy, proudly announces the launch of the 6th edition of the MEST Africa Challenge (MAC). This year's challenge seeks to identify and support exceptional AgriTech entrepreneurs who are addressing critical agricultural challenges in West Africa.
In the rapidly evolving world of AgriTech, innovation needs the right conditions to flourish. While many African entrepreneurs possess bold visions, they often face challenges in accessing the necessary resources and networks to bring their ideas to fruition. MAC 2024 is here to bridge that gap, offering startups the opportunity to “Find Their Soil” by providing critical support, funding, and mentorship.
"‘Find Your Soil' is a call to action for AgriTech innovators to discover the ideal environment where their vision can flourish. Through the MEST Africa Challenge, we aim to support this ecosystem by providing the necessary resources, visibility, and strategic support for these entrepreneurs to thrive,” said Ashwin Ravichandran, Portfolio Advisor, MEST Africa.
MEST Africa is committed to fostering job creation and economic growth across the continent through software entrepreneurship. By offering specialized tech entrepreneurial training and investment opportunities, the organization empowers Africa's brightest minds to build and scale impactful businesses.
The MEST Africa Challenge 2024, centered on the AgriTech sector, is open to startups from key West African markets, including Benin, Cape Verde, Côte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Mali, and Togo. The winning startup will receive $50,000 in equity funding along with access to MEST's extensive global network, unlocking valuable partnerships, mentorship, and investment opportunities to accelerate their growth and global presence.
Since its inception, MEST has invested over $30 million into training more than 2,000 entrepreneurs and has supported the launch of 90 early-stage tech startups across sectors including AgriTech, FinTech, SaaS, eCommerce, Digital Media, and Healthcare. This year presents an unparalleled opportunity for AgriTech entrepreneurs to “Find Their Soil” and take their businesses to the next level.
Eligibility Criteria for MEST Africa Challenge 2024:
Interested AgriTech entrepreneurs can learn more and apply here https://apo-opa.co/3yUlSr6.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa).
Media Contact:
Ophesmur Adjei
Communications and Community Manager
Mobile: +233 242 8171 174
Email: marketing@meltwater.org or Ophesmur@meltwater.org
About MEST Africa:
The Meltwater Foundation, established in 2008, is the non-profit arm of the global media intelligence company, Meltwater. With a clear mission to foster job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in Africa through software entrepreneurship, the Foundation is based in Accra, Ghana. The flagship program, MEST, offers a 1 year specialized tech entrepreneurial training to high caliber talent from over 22 countries including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa and Senegal; and invests in early to growth stage startups.
MEST Programs was launched in 2020 to focus on partnerships with other foundations and organizations who share our mission of creating wealth and jobs in Africa through digital skills training and startup acceleration.
To learn more about MEST Africa, visit our website https://apo-opa.co/4cBTfwx.
Gautrain, PRASA collaborate to transport rugby fans
In an effort to showcase Gauteng’s integrated urban transport, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and the Gautrain Management Agency (Gautrain) have teamed up to transport fans to this weekend’s Springboks and All Blacks test match.
“We are showcasing the fact that here in Gauteng, commuters can walk or take a bus or taxi to a PRASA or Gautrain Station, and board a train to get to the Emirates Park Stadium, via Ellis Park Train Station,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said on Sunday.
Rugby fans will be able to board the Gautrain and ride to Park Station, cross over to the revamped PRASA Park Station Mall, grab something to eat at any one of the food outlets, and then board the train to the game on Saturday, 31 August 2024.
“The train ride from Park Station in the Johannesburg CBD [central business district] to Ellis Park Station is three minutes. What we are doing for the game is to illustrate how different elements of public transport can and should work together,” Creecy said.
PRASA and the Gautrain Management Agency, working together with the City of Johannesburg and the Rugby Union at Emirates Park Stadium, decided to throw their weight behind this international event to ensure a hassle-free, safe transport solution for the fans who want to use the train.
The event is also supported by the Gauteng Provincial Government, as the host province.
Rugby fans will be able to board the Gautrain at any of the seven stations between Hatfield and Park Stations (Hatfield, Pretoria, Centurion, Midrand, Marlboro, Sandton and Rosebank) or any of the five stations between OR Tambo International Airport and Park Stations (OR Tambo, Rhodesfield, Marlboro, Sandton, Rosebank) – of course changing trains at Sandton Station.
Emphasising the critical role that rail plays in the daily lives of South Africans, the Minister said the Department of Transport will forge closer links between provinces and municipalities to ensure that people can go to work or school, or a rugby or football match, using public transport.
“Our government, across the national, provincial and local spheres, must work together to design and build sustainable cities with integrated transport systems which will assist in growing our country’s economy and which is ultimately for the benefit of our citizens.
“The proposed expansion of the Gautrain network, further north and south, is a clear example of our intention to further integrate our public transport system to achieve sustainable cities that work for our people,” the Minister said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 09:36
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, delves into what ultra-processed foods are, their potential dangers, and the benefits of reducing their intake. “Ultra-processed foods are popular because they’re convenient, affordable, and often have a longer shelf life. This makes them especially appealing to people with busy lives or tight budgets,” says Murray …
AI and other Tech are fast becoming the biggest sales enablers on the block Sales is a pressure game. You’re juggling leads, chasing targets, and dealing with the endless cycle of follow-ups. But high-performers don’t just work harder—they work smarter by leveraging tech that delivers results. Jacqueline van Rooijen, Owner and Business Growth Consultant at …
Jeffreys Bay, South Africa – Jeffreys Bay lit up with perfectly reeling, overhead 6ft waves for the 2024 Kneeboard World Champions Finals Day of the CineFX Kneeboard Surfing World Titles 2024 creating the perfect arena for the best kneeboard surfers in the world to battle it out for the coveted World Title. With the stage …
First Group’s Chef Samantha Stone serves up inspiration this Women’s Month In the culinary world, the competition can be as intense as the heat in the kitchen. Chef Samantha Stone, Group Food and Beverage Development Manager at First Group, one of South Africa’s leading leisure and hotel management companies, knows this firsthand. Having risen through …
South African 10km sensation Glenrose Xaba delivered a career-defining performance this morning (Sunday 25 August 2024) at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K, blazing through the course in a remarkable 31:51. This marks her third sub-32-minute finish this year, solidifying her status as one of the country’s best elite women of all times. The …
Get ready to groove to the rhythm of spring and indulge in a culinary and shopping adventure like no other at Rosebank Mall’s Spring Street Feast on Saturday, 7 September 2024. From 10h00 to 19h00, the vibrant space adjoining the mall on Bath Avenue will come alive with the sights, sounds, and flavours of this …
Lives will improve in Ekurhuleni, vows government
Government is committed to improving the lives of residents of the City of Ekurhuleni Municipality through interventions including “expanded support for small businesses and intensified efforts to spare communities from crime”.
Other interventions will be in security of tenure for people living and working on farms, and much needed repairs to major roadways that serve as economic arteries to the municipality.
On Friday, President Cyril Ramaphosa led a District Development Model Presidential Imbizo in the municipality.
READ | Strong municipalities needed to grow economy
The Presidential Imbizo was a platform for communities to interact and share their challenges with government leaders from all three spheres of government on service delivery challenges, and for the executive to respond to the community on what they are doing to resolve those issues.
“During this interaction, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza and other leaders outlined efforts address these matters and to improve economic prospects more broadly in the district,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement.
Water and electricity
After the community expressed their challenges, particularly those related to water, Xhakaza assured them that the city’s Water and Sanitation Department was working tirelessly to deliver services.
A new water pump station is in the pipeline for the area.
“The department has been allocated R590 million in 2024/25 for key projects including R30 million for a new 30Ml reservoir in Germiston; R15 million for the construction of a new sewer pipeline at Pomona and R10 million for a new water pipeline in Nigel.
“To mitigate the challenge the city power cuts and load reduction the City has undertaken to install backup generators at 21 water supply infrastructure sites such as reservoirs and pump stations. Some sites where the backup generators installed include Sunward Park, Tsakane and Germiston reservoirs,” the statement read.
Housing and employment
During the Imbizo, it was revealed that land claims totalling some R53 million are being fast tracked while housing is also getting attention.
It was revealed that the city, the provincial and national governments have partnered to under mega hosing projects which are at “various stages of pre-planning and construction”.
“The City has provided hundreds of serviced sites or stands that feature permanent infrastructure such as water, electricity and sanitation and are ready for top structures for integrated human settlements, and the development of transport services.
“Ekurhuleni is implementing a range of housing projects and related infrastructure totalling just under half a billion rand at Brakpan Old Location, Esselen Park, John Dube, Helderwyk, Birchleigh, Leeuwpoort, Daggafontein and Palm Ridge.
“Other actions under way and in the pipeline in the district include public employment projects such as the Vala Zonke pothole repair initiative; the opening in the coming weeks of a shared facility that will bring together small businesses under one roof; the revival of dormant industrial parks, and the provision of solar panels to needy residents in an initiative that has the potential to create 30 000 jobs,” the GCIS said.
Pre-Imbizo
Ahead of the Imbizo, leaders from all three spheres of government embarked on oversight visits to Ekurhuleni.
“Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy paid an oversight visit to the rehabilitation work construction crews are performing on 14km of the R21 freeway.
“Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontsho presented title deeds to land tenure beneficiaries who now have security on land bought by government at a cost of R12 million,” the GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 12:42
Four perish in Joburg building fire
At least four people have died and three others have been injured in a building fire in the Johannesburg inner city.
The incident occurred in an abandoned building during the early hours of Sunday morning.
Speaking to the SABC at the site of the fire, City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi, said the abandoned building was found “well alight” when emergency services arrived in the early hours of Sunday morning.
“We started evacuating the residents who were inside the building. While we were conducting our fire fighting operations, there were three people who came out of the building injured… One was critically injured. We can also confirm that… we managed to recover four bodies. Unfortunately, paramedics confirmed them dead on the scene.
“We have activated our disaster management officials who are on site, we have got our colleagues from City Power, who are here to also try and disconnect some of the illegal connections in the building, and also officials from the city to facilitate some relief for the residents,” Mulaudzi said.
By 10am on Sunday morning, fire fighters were damping down the hotspots and conducting a proper sweep of the building.
“So starting from the ground floor up until the last floor… we’re sweeping through the building just to remove any uncertainty of any person who might still be missing. After we have done that, we are going to be handing over the building to the South African Police Service to continue with their own investigations,” Mulaudzi said.
The cause of the fire is not yet known. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 12:40
Tshwane to host weather early warning system workshop
Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Bernice Swarts, is expected to address the opening of the National Consultative Workshop on Early Warnings for All (EW4All) to be held in Tshwane from Monday.
The agenda of three-day workshop will include:
“The workshop, which will be hosted by the South African Weather Service, comes as South Africa continues to rank among the Southern African countries that are vulnerable to hazardous weather events including severe floods, droughts, tropical cyclones, storms, and heat waves.
“Among the participants at the workshop will be the SAWS; the National Disaster Management Centre; the Departments of Water and Sanitation and Communication and Digital Technologies; the Council for Geoscience; the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa; and provincial, district and local government representatives.
“Also participating in the programme will be the UN and international organisations active in Early Warning Systems; civil society organizations, including Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) active in early warning services, climate and disaster risk information; and the private sector, including the mobile network operators and the insurance industry,” the department said.
The DFFE said the EW4All is a United Nations initiative, which seeks to “ensure that everyone on earth is protected from hazardous weather, water, or climate events through life-saving Early Warning Systems by the end of 2027”.
It rests on the pillars of Disaster Risk Knowledge and Management, Detection, Observation, Monitoring, Analysis and Forecasting, Warning Dissemination and Communication and Preparedness and Response Capabilities.
“According to the UN, Early Warning Systems have helped decrease the number of deaths and have reduced losses and damages resulting from hazardous weather, water or climate events. However, major gaps still exist, especially in small island developing states and least developed countries,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 13:05
Water and Sanitation sector delegation heads to Sweden for conference
The Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, is expected to lead a delegation to Sweden for the World Water Week conference, which kicks off today.
According to the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), the conference is expected to be held under the theme: “Bridging Borders: Water for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future”, and is “centred on water cooperation for peace and security”.
“Deputy Minister Mahlobo will participate in panel discussions with his counterparts from across the globe and deliberate on topics focused on unlocking the financing ecosystem for water security, innovative financing for transboundary water cooperation and Africa investment in infrastructure for socio-economic benefits, amongst others.
“He will further outline how the South African water sector has enhanced cooperation in times of water scarcity and detail efforts employed in all spheres of government to avert severe water challenges in water-stressed communities,” the department said.
Part of the delegation will be a pair of 15-year-old twin sisters, who won the South African Youth Water Prize (SAYWP) competition in June this year.
“The duo will present their water education and awareness app named 'Drop-Drop', which is aimed at enhancing education around the importance of prudent water use in communities.
“The World Water Week conference is hosted by the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) and is an inclusive meeting place to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and accelerate water action,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 11:29
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, is in Japan to attend the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Ministerial Meeting. Ahead of the opening ceremony of the TICAD Ministerial meeting, Minister Lamola had a business roundtable discussion with the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) to further strengthen economic cooperation. Among other matters, the meeting noted two critical economic developments. Following successful diplomatic negotiations, an agreement between the two countries was signed earlier this year, establishing a protocol for the export of South African avocados to Japan. The first consignment arrived in Japan this week, coinciding with Minister Lamola's visit.
This significant milestone marks the beginning of a new market opening for South African avocados in the East. The agreed protocol requires a cold treatment of 2°C for 19 days. South African research has shown that Hass avocados can withstand this treatment, with successful shipments to the UK under the same regime.
South Africa's economic diplomacy efforts continue to yield results in 2024, as evidenced by breakthroughs for our avocado industry, with the opening of new big markets in Japan, China, and India.
Speaking to Toyota Executives attending the JETRO interaction, Minister Lamola acknowledged Toyota's announcement this week of a strategic investment of R 1.2 billion in the South African automotive industry, which is expected to drive faster implementation of industrialisation, job creation, and transformation.
Minister Lamola also had the opportunity to meet with his counterpart, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Ms. Yōko Kamikawa. Minister Lamola reiterated that South Africa enjoys a significant relationship with Japan, underpinned by a fair economic partnership that contributes significantly to our nation's economic development and people-to-people relations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Hawks committed to fighting serious crime
The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, has assured South Africans that the Hawks, as the directorate is known, are committed to the mandate of "investigating, preventing and combating national priority offences".
Lebeya was speaking during a media briefing to outline progress and take stock of milestones achieved during the first quarter of financial year 2024/2025.
“...We note that the fight against national priority offences remains an ongoing challenge that requires sustained commitment and collaboration.
“The DPCI recapitulates its commitment to work diligently to address the evolving threat and bring those who engage in criminality to justice. The DPCI shall at all times continue to enforce the law of the Republic without fear, favour or prejudice.
“At the end of the last financial year, the DPCI was carrying 18 461 cases involving 752 712 charges with the value of R1 026 817 012 597.38. Of these cases, 5 616 involving 11 972 accused [natural persons] were serving before the various courts in the country, while 1 788 were receiving attention by the National Prosecuting Authority [NPA] in order to decide on prosecution or otherwise,” he said.
Lebeya noted that the DPCI has made “significant inroads in apprehending individuals… thus ensuring accountability and justice for the victims”.
The arrested suspects are alleged to have been involved in crimes including serious corruption; fraud; money laundering; police killings; cash-in-transit robberies; illegal mining; damage to essential infrastructure and crimes against the State.
“A total number of 673 suspects, representing 637 natural persons and 36 juristic persons, were secured before the various courts in the country. Of these natural persons, 489, which is 77%, are South Africans while 148, which is 23%, are foreign nationals.
“Of the 673 suspects, the Serious Organised Crime Investigation secured 370, the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation secured 234, while the Serious Corruption Investigation secured 69 suspects.
“Most of the arrests were effected in Gauteng province with 167; KwaZulu-Natal province with 114; North West province with 92; Mpumalanga province with 57 and Eastern Cape province with 56 suspects,” Lebeya said.
The DPCI head added that not only were arrests made, convictions were secured against some 506 accused.
“Of these convictions, 262 accused persons, inclusive of 12 juristic persons, were sentenced, while the balance of 244 convicts, inclusive of 15 juristic persons, are to be sentenced on dates after the quarter under review. Of the 262 sentenced natural persons, 173 are South Africans while 77 are foreign nationals.
“To ensure that crime does not pay, 77 court orders were granted in relation to the assets associated with crime. These make the total recorded successes on arrests, convictions and attachment of assets to 1256,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 11:12