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SA award-winners, MySociaLife, unveil the ‘ModernMinds Series’, eight new modern life skills lessons for teens and pre-teens South Africa – 23 August 2024 – Vaping, social media safety, fake news, mind health and AI; these are the new lessons that our kids are now needing as the world races into a tech-driven future. Answering the …
The use of cellular phones by inmates in correctional centres, smuggling of contraband items and overcrowding in facilities featured high on the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services' agenda during an oversight visit to the Goodwood Correctional Centre.
The committee, on its first oversight visit of the 7th Parliament, decided to visit the correctional centre after videos made by an inmate at the centre went viral on social media early this month.
Committee Chairperson Ms Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng said: “We selected the centre due to recent videos by an inmate that went viral on social media boasting about the good life he is living in the facility. The content loaded on social media by a specific inmate at Goodwood is also the reason we selected this centre first. How did he obtain the cell phone and manage to upload content on a social media account for so long without being found?” Ms Ramolobeng asked.
During the oversight visit, the committee, accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Correctional Services and other officials, also visited cells housing remand detainees and sentenced offenders, along with the kitchen, health facilities, library and the court housed at the centre.
The committee was also briefed by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) and the centre management, hearing that the centre currently has a 53% overcrowding rate. It has an approved bed space of 1 651 but houses a total of 2 497 inmates. At the same time, the centre has a staff vacancy rate of 15,25% with 56 vacant posts.
Ms Ramolobeng afterwards said, “The kitchen was clean. The health facility has a doctor daily on duty. We raised concern about the overcrowding. We realised that this is not a new thing and that severe budget cuts to the department of the years impacted on this.”
Referring to the inhouse court, she also remarked: “The inhouse-based court is the first of its kind. It is a groundbreaking initiative and has cost and security benefits for the department. This is indeed a good story to tell.”
As for the incident depicted in the video, the committee was informed that the inmate had a cell phone stored inside a radio he had permission to use and was posting videos for around three months. The cell phone was confiscated and since then a security threat and risk assessment has been done at the centre. Two surprise searches have also since been conducted where 28 cell phones and other contraband were found.
“We commend the department for this action. It seems it is necessary to do these random unexpected searches. Inmates who break the laws inside our centres should be dealt with decisively. It is important to ascertain whether they had assistance from family, officials or contractors delivering good to centres,” said Ms Ramolobeng.
Committee member Mr Damien Klopper was also concerned about the bed space after noticing that beds were pushed together to accommodate more inmates. “We cannot have multiple people sleeping on one small bed. Also, why was the inmate's application for a radio approved?” he asked. He also raised concerns that the CCTV in the centre is currently not functional and will be brought “back to life”.
Another committee Member, Mr Erald Cloete, wanted more information on how regularly the DCS conducts surprise raids at facilities. Meanwhile, committee Member Ms Betty Diale raised concerns about the perimeter fence, which is not maintained by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.
In closing, Ms Ramolobeng informed the DCS that this is just the first visit and to expect unannounced visits in future so the committee can see if what appears on paper is, in fact, what is happening in correctional centres.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Support for Riverlands displaced families continues
Cabinet says support for displaced families, whose homes were flooded when the walls of a dam collapsed in the Swartland Municipality in the Western Cape, continues.
This comes after the collapse of the retention walls of the Riverlands Dam on 8 August 2024.
At a media briefing on Thursday, following Cabinet's meeting on Wednesday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said water levels have now receded enough for residents, who were earlier evacuated, to return to their homes.
“However, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and the two available community centres remain open for residents who prefer not to return home immediately,” Ntshavheni said.
READ | Emergency work on the fourth Riverlands dam
Cabinet commended the urgent intervention by the Department of Human Settlements to assist displaced families.
Last week, Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi dispatched an emergency housing team to urgently assist displaced families whose homes were flooded when the walls of a dam collapsed.
Kubayi said the ongoing assessment will inform what interventions were required for all the affected households.
The Minister highlighted there are four categories of interventions provided by the department and these include restoration, relocation, rebuilding and repairs.
Meanwhile, as the country’s rainy season approaches in the northern part of the country, Cabinet has called on municipalities to ensure storm-water drains are cleaned and free from blockages, to ensure the smooth flow of water when it rains. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:29
Electricity Regulation Amendment Act ushers in competitive, sustainable electricity sector
Cabinet says the signing into law of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act by President Cyril Ramaphosa creates a new era of a competitive and sustainable electricity sector that meets South Africa’s energy needs.
“The amendments enhance energy security by drawing in more participants into energy production.
“The country’s energy security has also been further strengthened with an additional 2 500 megawatts of electricity that will be fed into the national grid at the end of September 2024,” Cabinet said in a statement.
The additional capacity, which will come from Medupi Unit 4, Kusile Unit 6 and Koeberg Unit 2, will place the country firmly on track to reach the milestone of 150 days, in two days, without load shedding.
“This milestone of 148 days without load shedding has been achieved with the reduction in the use of OCGT, resulting in R10.21 billion savings in the cost of diesel compared to the same period last year,” Cabinet said.
Cabinet has also noted the withdrawal of the determination for the procurement of new nuclear energy generation capacity by the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, to allow for further public consultation.
Cabinet affirmed that nuclear energy remains part of the country’s energy mix as it offers a low-carbon, reliable source of electricity that can contribute significantly to the country’s energy security and climate goals.
Ports infrastructure
On the country's ports infrastructure, Cabinet has welcomed the launch of five out of seven tugboats, which is part of the Transnet National Ports Authority’s fleet renewal programme. This, to tackle the challenges of congestion at the country’s ports in line with the Freight Logistics Roadmap to restore the efficiency and competitiveness in SA's ports and rail.
READ | R1 billion investment to boost tugboat availability
“The tugboats, which are equipped with the latest technology and improved bollard pull capacity, will help reduce vessel turnaround times by assisting in the faster movement of cargo and container ships through our major ports.
"The tugboats will also assist in preventing accidents by guiding ships through congested areas, thus improving port safety,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:36
Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has today, Thursday 22 August 2024, held a meeting with the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Gayton Mckenzie. The meeting was anchored on the responsibilities delegated to the Deputy President by President Cyril Ramaphosa of advancing Social Cohesion and as the Patron of the Moral Regeneration Movement.
The meeting discussed the proposed Programme of Action for Social Cohesion and Moral Regeneration Movement, to ensure that a socially-cohesive, non-sexist, non-racial, equal and safe South Africa is realised.
Amongst others, the meeting agreed to prioritise partnerships within and beyond government, including with Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders as well as Inter-Faith Leaders.
In particular, the programme of action that was agreed to, as anchored on the strategic priorities of the Seventh Administration of Government, will focus on removing obstacles that impede the advancement of social cohesion and moral regeneration in the country.
Under the leadership of the Deputy President, the work will also prioritise tackling gender based violence and femicide, promoting nation building through sport and arts, as well as ensuring equal access to sporting opportunities by all communities!
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Cabinet welcomes outcomes of the 44th Ordinary SADC Summit
Cabinet has welcomed the outcomes of the 44th Ordinary SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government held in Harare, Zimbabwe, on 17 August 2024.
The Summit had amongst others, urged Member States to implement the SADC Regional Humanitarian Appeal to the El Niño-induced drought and floods, and to continue monitoring weather and climate risks, including the forecasted La Niña event, and develop contingency measures to mitigate the impact of disasters.
The Summit also took note of the coming into effect of the Agreement establishing the Tripartite Free Trade Area among the COMESA, the East African Community and SADC which will provide opportunities for SADC members to tap into an expanded market of 26 countries with a population of about 700 million and a gross domestic product of US$1 trillion.
“On the Israel war against Palestinian, the Summit noted with concern the continuing relentless attack on civilians in Palestine which has resulted in the loss of lives, destruction of property and deteriorating humanitarian conditions and called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and the commencement of talks to bring a lasting solution to the conflict,” Cabinet said.
Southern African Railways Association (SARA) Conference
Cabinet has also welcomed the deliberations during the 13th SARA Conference to uplift the rail sector within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) with an aim of facilitating greater trade within the region and take advantage of trade opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Cabinet said a thriving SADC rail industry requires greater rail investment and collaboration within the SADC region to address its many challenges.
“The region’s rail industry has over the years been faced with challenges such as crime, theft and vandalism.
“South Africa is committed to doing its part to create an efficient, connected and modern rail sector, and is implementing policy and interventions, such as the Freight Logistics Roadmap, to revive, support and modernise the capacity and competence of our railways,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:47
SA’s Mpox disease under control, Cabinet
Cabinet has moved to reassure South Africans that the Mpox outbreak is under control.
The disease has now been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
Addressing the media during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni reported that to date, the total number of positive cases recorded in South Africa stands at 24.
The cases include three deaths, 19 recoveries and two active cases undergoing home isolation.
“Of these, 12 cases were reported in Gauteng, 11 in KwaZulu-Natal and one in the Western Cape,” Ntshavheni said.
Cabinet has called on members of the public to play their part by supporting the government’s efforts to prevent the spread of Mpox by remaining vigilant and exercising non-pharmaceutical interventions such as heightened personal hygiene to prevent further transmission.
“Cabinet supports the call by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his capacity as the African Union (AU) Champion on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response for all partners to collaborate closely with the Africa CDC to ensure that there is appropriate support from the international community, guaranteeing equitable access to medical countermeasures, including diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines,” the Minister said.
READ | Mpox is under control: Department of Health
Tackling foot-and-mouth disease
Cabinet has also noted major progress made in tackling foot and mouth disease (FMD) in the Kouga and Kou-Kamma Local Municipalities in the Eastern Cape, with the last clinical case reported in mid-July.
Ntshavheni said animal movements in and out of the affected regions continues to be monitored to prevent the spread of the disease to unaffected areas, in terms of the Disease Management Area, and the transportation of livestock from one place to another [which] requires a transport permit from a local state veterinary office, to prevent the spread of the disease.
READ | Progress made in management of foot and mouth disease
“The 30 cattle farms that have tested positive for the disease have been placed under quarantine, and vaccination efforts continue to control the spread of infection and reduce the severity of clinical symptoms.
“Additionally, pre-emptive vaccination has been carried out on a further 37 farms identified as high risk due to their proximity to infected areas. In total, over 92 000 cattle and nearly 600 sheep across 67 farms have been vaccinated,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:53
The Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has raised concerns about the insufficient attention to complaints it has made to the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) about municipal demarcation and ward delimitation processes and decisions. The committee this week conducted a two-day workshop for its members where the Department of COGTA and its entities presented information about their work methods.
During the presentation about the MDB's progress towards implementing its 2020 – 2025 strategic plan, the MDB said that to ensure well-defined municipal spaces, 4 468 wards were delimited for the 2021 local government elections and the municipal boundary redetermination process was concluded in March 2024. The board also said that it conducted 52 education and awareness consultations and 213 technical consultations on ward delimitation. These processes are undertaken ahead of local government elections, to determine the number of voters in a ward and the number of councillors in each municipality based on a gazetted formula that guides the Board.
The committee raised public concerns about the frequency of the delimitation, involving the shifting of voters and relocation of voting districts to different wards and its impact on the stability of communities. The committee highlighted ineffective communication and inadequate consultation with affected communities.
The board also raised the challenge of budgetary constraints, which limit its ability to conduct consultations directly with the affected communities, causing it to rely on the various municipalities for communication with affected communities. The committee urged the board to relook at this matter since communities complain about lack of consultation, and this affects the acceptability and legitimacy of the board's decisions.
Lack of attention to issues, such as when a community is living harmoniously together in a culturally and socially cohesive unit but has been demarcated into separate wards, leading to fractured social structure, unequal development due to one neighbour receiving better municipal services than the other because they belong to different wards despite their close proximity, poses risks to the MDB's credibility. There were instances cited where communities living under one traditional authority were divided in a manner that made daily lives harder, voting districts relocated to parts that were much further away from centres of social amenities, coherent communities divided into different districts and farms divided across different provinces.
The committee also believes that ward delimitation decisions that do not take sufficient account of geographical barriers, such as mountains, and transport routes create an impression that authorities are insensitive to the concerns of the public. A specific concern was raised regarding specific wards in the Northern Cape province that are vast with a radius of up to 120km as being problematic and unworkable, desiring to be given reconsideration.
The committee does not accept the board's emphasis on rigid compliance with pre-determined formulae when these are causing frustration, confusion, conflict and instability in an otherwise settled and stable community. The committee urged the MDB to review its approach, consider the formula's impact and revert to the committee with a considered view. The committee will also be engaging with the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs on this matter.
The committee further expressed interest in the extent to which politics has influenced recent demarcation decisions, noting that in the early years of the country's democracy, demarcation was used to achieve legitimate political ends, such as the economic development of previously marginalised areas. The committee noted that the sustainability, economic viability and impact of recent municipal amalgamations on the lives of affected communities are matters of concern across all political lines. This is particularly pertinent considering the findings made by the South African Local Government Association to the effect that over 70 percent of the municipal amalgamations formed in the wake of the 2016 local government elections have not achieved their intended purpose.
The committee is also concerned about the non-viability of some amalgamated municipalities as a result of political considerations and assumptions, which have failed to yield the expected benefits, such as raising revenue for their communities. There are a number of municipalities that are not viable, even after they are amalgamated with others, and this raises the issue of reviewing funding of municipalities, which the committee will look at and discuss with the relevant Minister. The committee believes that discussions in this area are necessary in order to strengthen the local government system.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Hats off to a winning nation
Cabinet has praised the nation’s sportsmen and women, who continue to proudly fly the flag high in various sporting codes around the world, and further unite the country.
This follows a series of remarkable victories recently, for South African athletes on the global stage.
“These victories demonstrated the power of sport to unite and transcend all boundaries.
“Cabinet encourages South Africans to use unifying moments as an opportunity to reach out to fellow South Africans to build the society that we want to live in,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said during a post Cabinet media briefing, on Thursday.
The Springboks, South Africa's rugby world champions, defeated Australia for the second time at the weekend, maintaining their unbeaten record in the Rugby Championship.
In Perth, Dricus du Plessis defended his Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweight title with a stunning win over Nigeria’s Israel Adesanya.
The Proteas continued with the winning streak by defeating the West Indies in the second cricket test in Guyana, clinching the series 1-0.
Meanwhile, Team SA made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics, securing 1 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze medals, doubling their medal tally from the 2021 Tokyo Games.
“This achievement will live long in our collective memories,” Ntshavheni said.
She further celebrated the South African relay team -- Bayanda Walaza, Bradley Nkoana, Shaun Maswanganyi and Akani Simbine -- for winning silver in the men's 4x100m relay final, setting a new African record of 37.57 seconds.
Additionally, Jo-Ane van Dyk earned a silver medal in the women's javelin event. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:09
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, Mr Mosa Chabane, is distraught about the death of a refugee at the Desmond Tutu Refugee Reception Centre in Pretoria on Tuesday following a reported stampede. The death of another refugee undermines the spirit of South Africa's strong legal and human rights framework on refugees and asylum seekers' rights, as encapsulated in the Refugees Act 130 of 1998, and South Africa's global and regional international refugee law obligations.
Mr Chabane emphasised the need for the Department of Home Affairs to fast-track the finalisation of the assessment of the implications of relocating refugee reception centres closer to ports of entry. The one-stop-shop facility proposal in the White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection: Towards a Complete Overhaul of the Migration System in South Africa (2024) makes an argument for refugee reception offices to be located at ports of entry to facilitate immediate assessment of asylum claims.
“It is necessary to have in place refugee reception centres that offer quality services to asylum seekers and refugees to ensure adherence to international obligations and respect to human rights,” Mr Chabane emphasised.
The Chairperson also called on the Department of Home Affairs to work with sister departments to conduct a broad investigation on the causes of the stampeded that resulted in the death. Also, the department must urgently devise strategies to prevent any possible recurrence of this incident.
The committee has a scheduled an oversight visit to the centre in October and hopes that the investigation will establish the cause of the incident.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Hop aboard the health train
Residents of Tembisa and surrounding areas turned up in their numbers today for free health services offered by the Phelophepha Train.
Thulo Letsoalo, a mother of three, told SAnews that she felt she should take advantage of the train services, as she cannot afford to go to specialists.
Letsoalo said over the past few years, she has been unwell, suffering from various ailments.
“I came here this morning just before 6am and I am confident that I am going to be assisted. I thank our government for bringing the Phelophepha services to us, as some of us cannot afford to pay for specialists,” Letsoalo told SAnews on Thursday.
Clive Tsheka, who has been having problems with his eye sight, commended the services provided by the healthcare train.
“I have been struggling with my eyes for years. I last visited an optometrist when I was still working and after that, I could not afford it anymore. I am happy that our government has brought free services to us,” Tsheka said.
The Phelophepha Train, which is currently stationed at Oakmoor train station in Gauteng, is Transnet’s flagship Corporate Social Investment project, which started in 1994 as a three-coach eye clinic. It operated successfully between 1995 and 2009.
Due to its reach and success around the country in providing eye care to the country’s most vulnerable communities in rural areas, Transnet decided to add other critical services to the first train, such as nursing, dentistry and an on-board pharmacy.
Over the years, Phelophepha Trains have expanded their service offering to include education/awareness/testing and screening for cancer (cervical, prostate and breast), and wellness for chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
The Department of Public Enterprises Acting Director-General, Jacky Molisane, told SAnews that the provision of healthcare is a crucial element to development at community level.
“We are bringing services at grassroots level, providing comprehensive services free of charge. People are given services such as dentistry and other services, free of charge. This shows that government cares for its people,” Molisane said.
She commended the hard working men and women, who provide healthcare on the train in a professional manner.
“This shows that our government is responsive and caring,” she said.
Senior Manager responsible for Health Initiatives at Transnet Foundation, Shamona Kandia, said through the Phelophepha Train, the Transnet Foundation is able to give back to communities.
“The Phelophepha Train has, for the past 30 years, been providing healthcare services to communities. Today, we here in Tembisa as part of Transnet's schedule of bringing healthcare services to the people,” Kandia said.
She said Transnet has been supporting government to provide healthcare services to communities.
The Transnet Foundation’s two healthcare trains, Phelophepa I and II, are designed to provide basic medical help and education.
Each train has a permanent staff of 22 healthcare professionals, including nurses, healthcare educators, opticians and dentists. The trains also carry managers, translators and security staff. Local workers are hired on a temporary basis.
Since the beginning of the Phelophepa programme, the trains have reached many people, changing lives and bringing healing and healthcare education to communities in great need of care.
The Phelophepha Train healthcare services form part of build-up events for the District Development Model Presidential Imbizo, which is taking place on Friday, 23 August, in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality at Tsakane Stadium. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to interact with communities and stakeholders in the metro.
Themed: "Leave No One Behind”, the Presidential Imbizo promotes participatory democracy and inclusive development by allowing community members and stakeholders to voice proposals and express any concerns or dissatisfaction they may have about conditions in the district or province.
At an event at a community hall, locals, especially those in need, were given wheelchairs, walking sticks and hygiene packs. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:14
Gauteng’s property market presents a mix of opportunities with varying trends across its regions. Despite modest inflation figures, the demand for property remains strong, especially among first-time buyers and those seeking investment opportunities. Lara-Rachel Spronk, Franchise Sales Manager at Just Property Head Office, looks at the current market and the opportunities available. Overall, Gauteng’s annual …
A nation's health, is a nation's wealth
South Africa’s health system is too essential to development to be weakened by mismanagement, funding crises, and other problems.
“We expect all stakeholders to bring solutions and work with the Departments of Health and Science and Innovation to implement them,” said Acting President Paul Mashatile on Thursday.
The Acting President was speaking at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, where he presided over the signing of the second Presidential Health Compact, an initiative established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2019.
The health compact is a framework for cooperation between critical sectors and stakeholders to strengthen the health system and monitors and evaluates preparations for implementing the National Health Insurance (NHI).
The stakeholders include government, business, labour, civil society, health professionals, unions, service users, statutory councils, academia, and researchers to develop sustainable and inclusive solutions to challenges in the national health system.
Its pillars range from the development of human resources, improving access to medicine, vaccines and health products, upgrading infrastructure and private sector engagement.
It also zooms in on quality healthcare, public sector financial management improvements, governance and leadership, community engagements, and information systems to pandemic preparedness.
The Acting President told delegates present that implementation was the foremost priority of the country's seventh administration.
“Effective policy implementation means we can take the right actions and follow through with the plans, leading to successful outcomes. I have full confidence that implementation is the priority of all of us gathered here today.
“On behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, it is my privilege to sign the second Presidential Health Compact today.”
He said he believed that a healthy nation is more economically productive and prosperous.
“A healthy population enjoys higher life expectancy, better quality of life and overall wellbeing. As a result, providing quality healthcare is of the utmost importance to all of us,” he added.
Universal healthcare coverage
He said Africa is committed to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of “ensuring healthy lives and promoting wellbeing for all at all ages”.
“This is a bold commitment to achieve universal health coverage. It is a commitment to provide access to affordable medicines and vaccines for all. If our nation’s health is truly to be our nation’s wealth, we must fix our healthcare system.”
He said fixing the healthcare system will effectively protect the population against public health emergencies, such as HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, or Mpox.
The Acting President also outlined challenges that prevent government from providing decent and quality healthcare to all South Africans.
Lack of funding and collaboration
He also touched on healthcare funding challenges due to budget cuts and a constrained fiscal environment, compounded by inefficiencies, mismanagement and corruption in resource allocation.
However, the Acting President said budgeting in the health sector is steadily improving to ensure a more equitable allocation of resources.
“Less money is being lost to litigation. This is thanks to the hard work of the Health Sector Anti-Corruption Forum, which continues to expedite prosecutions and recover stolen funds.”
With greater collaboration, he said the resources and capabilities of both the public and private sectors can be brought to bear to serve those who need healthcare most.
However, some progress has been made as well with 149 new primary healthcare facilities being completed by November 2023.
In addition, 30 new hospitals are either opened or under construction.
The Acting President also took the time to applaud the private sector for the crucial role it plays in strengthening health systems.
“Our experience with COVID-19 showed how we could deepen public-private partnerships. With greater collaboration, the resources and capabilities of both the public and private sectors can be brought to bear to serve those who need healthcare most,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:43
Cape Town, South Africa – Designer Pool Covers Cape Town, a leading provider of high-quality pool covers, is proud to announce its continued commitment to enhancing pool safety and efficiency in the region. With over a decade of experience, the company has established itself as a trendsetter in the industry, offering a wide range of products …
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will, in his capacity as Acting President, lead the signing by multiple stakeholders of the Second Presidential Health Compact at the Union Buildings, Pretoria, at 12h30 today, Thursday, 22 August 2024.
President Ramaphosa has appointed Deputy President Mashatile as Acting President, based on medical advice that President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is in good spirits otherwise, allow an eye infection to clear.
Immediately after the Health Compact signing, Acting President Mashatile will receive Letters of Credence from Heads of Mission and Ambassadors-Designate of 11 countries.
The incoming members of the Diplomatic Corps have been nominated by their respective governments to serve as official representatives to South Africa.
The presentation of credentials to the Acting President will take place at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House on the Bryntirion Estate at 14h00.
Representatives of the following countries will be welcomed to South Africa by Acting President Mashatile:
The Republic of Nicaragua; the Republic of Guinea; the Republic of Peru; the People's Republic of China; the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela; the Holy See; the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; the Republic of Gabon; the Republic of Finland; the Republic of Senegal, and the Republic of Ghana.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Good news for local meat producers
The South African Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mogobo Magabe, says the lifting of the 21-year import ban of South African meat products by Saudi Arabia has opened a lucrative market for local meat producers.
Ambassador Magabe was speaking during the virtual Outward Selling Mission to Saudi Arabia that was hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, South African Embassy, Saudi Arabia Food and Drug Authority, South African National Halaal Authority, and the Red Meat Producers Organisation.
Over 250 people attended Thursday’s session that was held under the theme: “Unlocking Trade Opportunities through Collaboration”
“The lifting of the ban was one of the strategic outcomes of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State Visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where he held constructive and fruitful engagements with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman. The two leaders signed fifteen agreements that included collaboration in agriculture, mining and tourism.
“It is an opportune time for the South African meat producers to take advantage of the lifting of the ban and export their products to the Kingdom. This can contribute in growing our economy, and strengthening our bilateral economic relations with Saudi Arabia,” Magabe said.
READ | The dtic to host virtual outward selling mission to Saudi Arabia
The Chief Director of Export Promotion and Marketing at the dtic, Ms Zanele Sanni, encouraged South African companies to utilise the virtual session to market their respective products to potential Saudi buyers with the aim of concluding sustainable export contracts that would increase trade between the two countries.
“As government, we are mandated to support local industries to enhance their manufacturing capacity and find suitable export markets for their products through strategic mechanisms like these,” Sanni said.
“We are committed to enhancing bilateral economic ties with Saudi Arabia. In recent years, both countries have had high-level political and business exchanges, leading to the lifting of the 21-year ban on South African meat exports to Saudi Arabia. This has opened up the substantial Saudi Arabian market to South African producers,” she said.
She expressed South Africa’s appreciation to the Saudi authorities for having already approved twelve South African companies to export beef meat to Saudi Arabia, and seven companies for lamb and mutton meat products.
“This demonstrates the high standards met by South African companies. It also confirms that the meat-producing sector in South Africa is highly developed and strategically positioned to meet the demand of the Saudi Arabian market,” Sanni noted.
The Chief Director of Animal Production and Health at the Department of Agriculture, Dr Botlhe Modisane, said Saudi Arabia provided a high potential market for South African exporters to tap into, in terms of both fresh or chilled beef meat as well as frozen beef products.
“Saudi Arabia currently accounts for about one percent of agricultural exports from South Africa,” Modisane said.
South Africa anticipates to expand its export market share with Saudi Arabia given the signing of the recent trade agreements.
Saudi Arabia is a net importer of beef. Its imports of frozen beef and fresh or chilled meat imports recorded approximately 71% and 90% growth rates respectively.
The session was also addressed by representatives of the South African National Halaal Authority (SANHA), Hammid Mulla and of the Red Meat Abattoir Association, Dr Gerhard Neethling. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:48
Cabinet approves establishment of small business advisory body
Cabinet has approved the establishment of an advisory body within the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) that will ensure representation and promotion of the interest of small enterprises.
The establishment of an advisory body is prescribed by the National Small Enterprise Act, 1996 (Act 102 of 1996), as amended.
Briefing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the establishment of an advisory body is to ensure representation and promotion of the interest of small enterprises as contemplated in the National Strategy for the Development and Promotion of Small Enterprises in South Africa.
“The primary function of the advisory body will be to advise the Minister [of the DSBD] on broad areas that affect small enterprise growth, including national standards pertaining to small enterprise development and regulation.
“The advisory body will provide government with evidence-based expert advice on the functioning of various aspects of the small enterprise support ecosystem to enable more effective policy reforms, legislative amendments, and design of interventions to support micro, small and medium enterprises and cooperatives,” Ntshavheni said at Thursday’s briefing.
Aeronautical and Marine Search and Rescue Bill
Meanwhile, Cabinet has also approved the publication of the Aeronautical and Marine Search and Rescue (AMSAR) Bill of 2024 for public comment.
The Minister said the bill seeks to amend the South African Maritime and Aeronautic Act, 2002 (Act 44 of 2002) which has become outdated.
“The bill aims to ensure the safety of people in the event of aeronautical and maritime search and rescue incidents. The bill further seeks to align the national AMSAR system with international standards and trends.
“The bill will strengthen the AMSAR system to boost the growth of aviation and maritime related industries and will contribute to economic growth,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:19
President Ramaphosa to undertake State Visit to China
President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to undertake a State Visit to the People’s Republic of China from 2-5 September 2024, to further strengthen diplomatic and trade relations between the two countries.
This visit follows President Xi Jinping’s fourth State Visit to South Africa in August 2023.
China is South Africa’s largest trading partner with bilateral trade standing at US$34 billion in 2023, made up of exports totalling US$12 billion and imports at US$22 billion.
READ | SA and China strengthen political, trade relations
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday China had also been a major contributor to South Africa’s investment drive and is the country's largest source of foreign direct investment.
“A number of important agreements are expected to be concluded during the State Visit, including a Framework Agreement on Development Cooperation, the trade balance and market access expansion,” Ntshavheni said during a media briefing to outline the outcomes of Cabinet's meeting on Wednesday.
A South African delegation will also participate in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) which will take place from 4-6 September 2024.
FOCAC is multilateral coordination mechanism between Chinese and African countries, and it is viewed as a cooperation platform within the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative which is China’s global infrastructure development strategy. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:49
To bring this new activation to life, World Champion and net-zero racing team Envision Racing, the greenest team on the grid of the world’s greenest motorsport championship, joins forces with Cartoon Network EMEA, Warner Bros. Discovery’s animated series network, to engage children in the race against climate change. Part of the Cartoon Network Climate Champions …
Cabinet calls on men to sign pledge against GBVF
Cabinet has reiterated its call on South African men to join the initiative by President Cyril Ramaphosa to take a stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) by signing the virtual pledge to take a decisive stand against the scourge.
President Ramaphosa launched the call to action by signing the pledge alongside men from all sectors of society in Pofadder, Northern Cape, during the 2024 Women's Day celebration on 9 August.
READ | President speaks out on gender-based violence
Briefing media on the outcomes of the Cabinet Meeting in Pretoria on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said by signing the pledge, men commit to be part of the solution by maintaining positive behaviour and attitudes, and to take responsibility for their actions.
“It also commits men to never raise a hand against a woman, to treat women as equals, respect their rights, and to treat them with dignity. Managing GBVF as a collective will result in healthier, safer and more peaceful communities in which women and children can thrive,” Ntshavheni said.
The virtual pledge can be signed at www.stateofthenation.gov.za/endGBVF
Cabinet has also commended the opening of the 65th Centre at the Mitchells Plain Hospital in Cape Town earlier this week, to support victims of GBVF.
Ntshavheni said government’s establishment of the Thuthuzela Care Centres across the country is a response to the urgent need for prevention, response and support for victims of violence, especially women and children.
Concern over teenage pregnancies
Cabinet has further urged society and parents to help solve the challenge of adolescent pregnancies, by reporting anyone who engages in sex with a minor (a child under the age of 16) as it is a criminal offence.
This follows concern over the alarming statistics of adolescent pregnancies, where children as young as 10 years of age are prematurely becoming parents.
“If the country does not work together to address this challenge of teenage pregnancies, women and young girls will continue to be trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty, lack of educational and economic prospects,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:04
Centurion, South Africa, 22 August 2024 – The annual Race of Gratitude at Centurion Mall was an electrifying success! On Saturday, 29 June 2024, fitness fanatics and fun-loving walkers gathered to turn the heart of Centurion into a vibrant celebration of community and connection. This wasn’t just any race—it was a powerful gathering where fitness …
Basic Education sets record straight on school feeding
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has moved to set the record straight following recent allegations regarding the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP).
In a statement, Director General Mathanzima Mweli, explained that the delay in the department's response was due to discussions between himself and DBE Minister Siviwe Gwarube.
Mweli refuted claims made in the Sunday Times article of 18 August 2024, titled, "Gwarube halts R10bn school food tender", stating that the article contained “numerous inaccuracies, fabrications, and falsehoods”.
He emphasised that the DBE did not publish the NSNP tender "surreptitiously" or during a period when the department lacked a Minister. The tender was published on 22 July 2024 after the new administration had taken office.
“The DBE rejects the suggestion that it surreptitiously published the NSNP tender “at a time when it had no Minister,” said Mweli.
The tender was published on 22 July 2024, which was several weeks after the assumption of office of the incoming administration,” the Director-General said.
Mweli also dismissed the notion that the modernisation of the NSNP was concocted for corrupt purposes. He clarified that the process began in July 2023, involving extensive discussions within the Heads of Education Committee (HEDCOM) and the Council of Education Ministers (CEM), with the final model being adopted in early 2024.
“The assertion that the management of the DBE concocted the modernization scheme for corrupt ends is also rejected. The DBE initiated the process for the modernization of the NSNP in July 2023.
“From a governance point of view, this matter was extensively processed by the Heads of Education Committee (HEDCOM) on various occasions during 2023 and working with the Council of Education Ministers (CEM) as the final model for the modernization was adopted by council in early 2024.
“Extensive records regarding the aforementioned remain available for scrutiny. The issuing of the final terms of reference (TOR) for the tender was thus based on the extensive processing of the modernization project by the relevant mandating structures of the basic education sector and not by the management of the DBE as the article alleges,” Mweli said.
The Director General emphasized that the DBE followed all legal procedures and consulted with the National Treasury and a Senior Counsel to ensure compliance with the law.
“The DBE is convinced that the process it initiated is lawful in every respect and this has been confirmed by very senior and experienced officials from National Treasury in addition to the advise of Senior Counsel,” Mweli said.
Mweli addressed concerns about the alleged centralisation of the NSNP, explaining that the modernisation aims to maximise government purchasing power and improve the quality of meals for learners.
The programme, he noted, has been underfunded for years, and the modernization seeks to better support poor children, particularly in the wake of increased demand after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The rationale of the modernization project is to ensure that the state maximizes its buying power by creating a mechanism to afford maximum benefits from economies of scale. This would enable government to get better value for money and by so doing improve the quality and quantity of the plate for our children.
“In terms of the conditional grant framework of the NSNP only quintiles 1 - 3 schools (the poorest schools) qualify for the NSNP. This article including those who seem to support it fail to place the learner at the centre of the modernisation as we have done but rather elect to elevate the interest of other parties to supersede those of the learner,” Mweli said.
The Director-General said this programme is one of the oldest initiatives of the democratic government initiated to deal with poverty alleviation among children and the DBE’s attempt at modernising the programme is intended to advance this objective.
Mweli further rejected the claim that the tender would be awarded to a single entity, calling it "mischief-making" and highlighting that the modernisation model includes provisions for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and smallholder farmers as part of a Local Economic Development (LED) focus.
The initiative aims to create over 30 000 sustainable jobs and support thousands of small businesses.
“The Department of Basic Education believes that the modernisation of the NSNP is an important initiative to ensure the optimisation of the social wage, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living for the poor which is in line with strategic priority Number 2 of the 7th administration,” he said.
In conclusion, Mweli expressed concern over the state of investigative journalism in the country and urged reporters to focus on the real story behind the modernisation of the NSNP.
The closing date for the NSNP modernisation bid has been extended from 15 August to 29 August 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 09:28
DPSA Minister calls for "mission oriented" approach to public service innovation
Public Service and Administration Minister, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, has called for the adoption of a mission oriented perspective that embraces complex challenges with diverse solutions.
“The key term in this theme is 'mission', which therefore means that our efforts must transition from the outdated, siloed approaches that address singular problems with singular solutions.
"We must strive for a mission oriented perspective. This mission orientated approach must embrace complex challenges with a range of solutions,” Buthelezi said.
The Minister was delivering the keynote address at the 18th CPSI Public Sector Innovation Conference being held in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, on Wednesday.
The two-day conference, hosted by the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI), is being held under the theme: “Accelerating Transformation through Mission Oriented Innovation”. It is being attended by at least 350 delegates, 60 System Developers and more than 15 speakers.
The conference serves as a critical platform that will effectively advance the creation of a government-wide enabling environment required for innovation to thrive.
The objective of the conference includes exposing government officials and strategic partners, such as the youth, civil society and academia, to robust engagements and discussions around international trends and topical issues on public sector innovation and its unparalleled potential.
The conference is also aimed at presenting an ideal opportunity to assess the role and impact of mission oriented innovation as a tool for enabling the public sector to meet its targets of, amongst others, tackling poverty, unemployment and inequality in order to achieve Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
It further aims to explore key elements for successful implementation and sustenance of missions to enhance service delivery, facilitate the sharing of innovative perspectives and practices that respond to government priorities for replication and mainstreaming, and demonstrate how high impact, award winning projects have positively impacted on service delivery.
Buthelezi told the conference that the term "mission" will guide their path as they address issues within the public service.
He said this approach resonates deeply with him, his office and the entire public service because every government department has its mission, which is guided by the UN SDGs, the African Unions’ Agenda 2063, the National Development Plan (NDP) and government's priorities, as outlined in the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP 2024-2029).
With a clear mission, a set vision, and aligned goals, the Minister emphasised that government is committed to driving inclusive growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and addressing the high cost of living.
“Most importantly, we aim to build a capable, ethical and developmental State.
“This conference arrives at a crucial time. As we implement the 7th Administration’s Medium-Term Development Plan, aligning our work with a mission oriented approach will help us confront public service challenges effectively. While our term is limited to five years, we must strive to achieve ambitious goals swiftly.
“Time is of the essence, and our mission timeline should deliver results within the first two years. Though this is a significant challenge, I am confident that with the expertise [we have], we can accomplish remarkable results quickly,” he said.
Room for innovation
The Minister told the conference that the importance of innovation in improving service delivery cannot be overstated.
“With the CPSI at the core of government innovation, we can make a substantial impact in addressing service delivery backlogs and delays that undermine public trust in government,” he said.
He further emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating that isolated work within government departments must come to an end.
“The days of isolated work within government departments must end. We cannot have some departments advancing while others lag behind. It is unacceptable that service quality varies based on location.
“Our mission is to align Cabinet with our department’s mission, driven by the CPSI, to accelerate transformation through innovation in the public sector. Innovation must start at home, beginning with the Department of Public Service and Administration. We should use our department as a testing ground for new ideas before broader implementation,” he said.
Buthelezi called for the acceleration of all innovations and a close monitoring of their implementation.
He said the goal is to lead in public sector innovation by adopting a more integrated approach to addressing complex challenges. This, he said, will ensure that South Africans have a government that delivers effective service and a public sector dedicated to providing high quality services.
Buthelezi highlighted that historical innovations like the CAT scan (that now saves millions around the world), the Dolosse (which holds back ocean swells at harbours), the Kreepy Krauly (a system which cleans millions of pools around the world), and the first heart transplant in Cape Town are a reminder of the impact of creative solutions born from dedication to solving problems.
“By emulating these pioneers, we can achieve great things through collaborative problem solving. Dr Christiaan Barnard’s success with the first heart transplant was a result of teamwork and collaboration. Similarly, our mission to enhance service delivery through innovation cannot succeed in isolation.
“Collaboration with the private sector and civil society is crucial for sustainable solutions to poverty, inequality and unemployment. Although no single solution will address all issues, many innovations from public servants may offer answers to our challenges,” the Minister said.
Buthelezi declared the conference a success, calling for joint effort to ensure that government serves all people effectively. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 11:18
Young perfumer’s sweet smell of success
By Khanyisile Rasmeni
Phumulile Mkhonza of Nelspruit in Mpumalanga is growing as a perfumer and revolutionising the African fragrance industry.
Mkhonza is the owner of PSD Scent Perfumes, a business that she started in 2019 but only registered in 2022.
It specialises in high quality personal care products including perfumes for men and women, body lotions, body butters, tissue oils, home diffusers, and car air-fresheners.
Mkhonza enrolled for a three-month perfume-making course while studying at the University of Johannesburg for a degree in political science.
“I decided to launch my own perfume brand due to my love for perfume making. I registered the business while I was still employed. In August 2023, I decided to resign from my job and focus solely on my business,” she said.
The 31-year-old Mkhonza said she has distributors across the country who buy her products in bulk and resell them. Her footprint also spans across three African countries including Swaziland, Mozambique and Nigeria.
Mkhonza was guided by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) to start exporting her products beyond South African borders.
“I was able to establish relationships with other entrepreneurs based in these countries through the entrepreneurship development programmes [offered by Seda] that I have been part of,” she said.
In 2022, she received R671 000 from the Mpumalanga Office of the Premier’s Youth Development Fund Programme.
She further received financial assistance from Seda to purchase assets for the business in 2024.
Her business currently employs eight people.
The entrepreneur also holds an honours and master’s degrees in public management and governance.
For more information, contact PSD Scent Perfumes on 064 505 4838, or on WhatsApp at 072 060 6093 or on email at info@psdscent.co.za and www.psdscent.co.za.
You can visit the Mpumalanga Office of the Premier website at www.mpumalanga.gov.za or call 013 766 0000/2473. Visit Seda by logging on to www.seda.org.za or call 087 158 7991.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 10:05