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Lower Point, Jeffreys Bay – Maya Malherbe (Buffalo City) is your Sea Harvest SA Junior Championships presented by SMTH Shapes U12 Girls champion for 2024, repeating her winning performance from last year. She beat Brin Jarvis (NMBS) in second place, with Camilla Prins (Eden) in third place and Adriana Canning (Ethekwini) in fourth place. …
After seven years the City of Cape Town and the occupiers appear to be finding common ground but difficulties lie ahead
Deputy President assures Ireland of SA’s commitment to 'enabling environment' for business
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has assured Ireland that South Africa is committed to creating an enabling business environment that attracts investment, spurs economic development, and creates jobs.
“We understand the significance of collaboration with countries like Ireland, which share our values and aspirations for a better future. As a country, we want to enhance our exports of value-added goods and services to Ireland,” the Deputy President said on Friday.
This as the Deputy President undertook a working visit to Ireland to reinforce South Africa’s historic and warm bilateral relations with the nation where he is also expected to meet his Irish counterpart, Prime Minister Simon Harris.
READ | Mashatile undertakes working visits to Ireland and the UK
Speaking at the South Africa-Ireland Forum, the country’s second-in-command said the nation’s focus was on understanding the potential for growth in the global economy.
“It is our responsibility as leaders in our various regions to cultivate an environment that promotes entrepreneurship stimulates innovation and propels inclusive prosperity.”
The Deputy President said he was pleased that the two countries already trade in food and beverages.
“However, I must admit that the global pandemic has hindered our trade partnership, leading to only modest progress. We must identify measures to expedite international investment. I strongly believe that there is significant potential to significantly increase the volume and value of various products, including those that are manufactured,” he added.
He told businesspeople that there were many reasons to invest in South Africa, including the fact that the country has had political stability and peaceful elections since 1994.
“We emerged from a peaceful election and formed a Government of National Unity (GNU). All parties in the GNU pledge to uphold the 10 fundamental principles.”
These, he said, include respect for the Constitution, non-racialism, social justice, human dignity, nation-building, peace and stability, accountability, evidence-based policy, a professional developmental public service, and integrity.
The Deputy President also said South Africa prides itself on quality infrastructure and logistics, the largest presence of multinationals in Africa, a well-developed and diversified manufacturing base.
In addition, he pointed out that the country also has a lucrative emerging market, favourable market access to the global market, an innovation and technology hub, abundant natural resources, Africa’s leading financial hub, a young labour workforce, and excellent quality of life.
He also told potential investors that several South African key science and technology innovations and achievements emerge from our home soil.
He mentioned the Kreepy Krauly automatic pool cleaner, CAT scan, Q20 lubricant, Pratley Putty and Smartlock Safety Syringe.
Government interventions
Shifting his focus on the South Africa’s Economic Recovery Plan and projects like Operation Vulindlela, which he said were a collaborative effort to expedite the implementation of economic and structural reforms, are aimed at stimulating job creation and development.
To ensure the rapid expansion of energy generation capacity, he stated government’s various interventions including the announcement of a further 6800 MW of solar PV and wind power being procured through Bid Windows 5, 6, and 7.
“Future windows will procure an additional 3000 MW of gas and 513 MW of battery storage. The government has boosted private sector participation in energy generation by removing the 100MW National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) licence threshold, a game-changing announcement for the industry.
“It should also be noted that the Hydrogen Economy has been identified as a potential game changer for South Africa,” he explained.
In addition to the investment opportunities in the energy space, he said the nation wishes to explore cooperation for investment projects in sectors such as food tech, global business services, film, fintech and infrastructure in Ireland.
He believes that South Africa can benefit from Ireland’s expertise in the technplogy sector as the country is currently attracting a lot of back-office service operations from foreign companies.
“However, foreign companies from Ireland have been slow in relocating operations to South Africa.
“This engagement presents an opportunity to reverse this trend. In terms of fintech, there is a lot of capital available in Ireland that could boost South Africa’s innovative fintech. Furthermore, the film industries of both countries could benefit from enhancing cooperation in the film space could benefit both countries film industries.”
He urged Ireland to assist South Africa with the successful implementation of the projects, with the provision of requisite skills in these sectors. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 15:47
Honouring SA’s liberation heroes and heroines
An emotional and befitting ceremony to honour the men and women who died in exile while fighting for the freedom that South Africans enjoy today was held in Pretoria on Friday.
Phrases such as “you have fought a good fight and “you have finished the race,” were the order of the day at the ceremony held for those who lost their lives in the fight for South Africa’s liberation.
This as government hosted the repatriation and restitution homecoming ceremony of 42 South African freedom fighters who perished in Zambia and Zimbabwe during the apartheid era.
The remains included that of former African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general Duma Nokwe, head of the ANC Women’s Section, Florence Mophoshe, journalist Todd Matshikiza, Wankie Campaigner, Basil February and other unsung liberation fighters.
These struggle heroes and heroines, who sacrificed their lives in exile, were honoured as their remains returned home to a country that now enjoys the very freedom they fought for.
President Cyril Ramaphosa led and officiated the historic homecoming ceremony where the remains of the freedom fighters were returned to their families for a final, dignified farewell on home soil.
Speaking during the ceremony, Zambian High Commissioner to South Africa Mazuba Monze said: "May the spirits of our heroes and heroines continue to inspire us as we continue to move forward in friendship and collaboration. You have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, good and faithful servants, come and rest at peace in the land that you have so valiantly fought for.”
Edna Mophosho Tshabalala, 83, travelled from Naturena in Gauteng to receive the remains of her aunt, Florence Mophosho.
Overcome with emotion, Tshabalala expressed the family’s sense of closure.
“As a family, we are very happy, and we are finally going to have closure now. Every time we miss her, we will go to Westpark Cemetery to visit her,” Tshabalala said of her aunt who was a revered stalwart known for her unwavering commitment and fiery spirit.
She recalled how her aunt was her mother’s bridesmaid and co-worker at the old Johannesburg Hospital. The family had no knowledge of Mophosho’s involvement in the liberation struggle until the day she vanished.
Years later, the family was devastated to learn of her passing.
"In 1985, I heard the news that she had passed on. Otherwise, we really missed her a lot because she was a loving person, and we all didn't expect that there would be a day that we hear about her death. Fortunately, because God is great, the day has come.”
Tshabalala also recounted her emotional journey to Zambia to locate her aunt’s grave after volunteering to represent the family.
"Unfortunately, in Zambia, we struggled to identify her grave. Eventually we found it and we sang for her, and we were happy. I was treated as a VIP and airlifted everywhere. Today, we are here to receive her from Zambia,” she explained.
Bringing healing
Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga explained that while the government initially announced that it was repatriating the remains of 49 people, there had been delays in the DNA verification process.
Motshekga made a commitment to the other families that they too, would receive the remains of their loved ones.
"The repatriation of the remains of our struggle stalwarts is not just about laying to rest those who fought for freedom, it is about bringing healing to their families, and I hope it really does that because these are not just names in history.
“They are our families; they gave their lives so that we might live in freedom. They left our shores to fight a system that dehumanised our people and in doing so, they became symbols of resilience, courage and hope.”
Motshekga said the South African government had previously repatriated the remains of the likes of JB Marks and Moses Kotane.
She also extended her gratitude to the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie for giving the project "the necessary energy," as well as other departments which her department collaborated with, and various political party formations.
McKenzie said the repatriation process was a collective effort and that it has been a joy to work with the families of the struggle heroes.
He acknowledged that while the process has been a sombre one, the patience and understanding shown by the families reaffirm his belief that the government is on the right path.
“This was not an instruction; it was a labour of love. My mother died of a broken heart because my younger brother was never found, my mother never spoke about him, but I could feel the pain.
“I saw what my mother went through that is why I was rushing the process because I don’t want any other woman, children or father to go[through] what she went through. To the children that are here, the President is resolute, he is intentional that we must bring back all the soldiers that fought for freedom,” McKenzie said.
Heroes Acre
President Ramaphosa has now tasked Minister McKenzie with establishing a Heroes Acre to celebrate the nation’s struggle heroes.
"As I travel to other countries like Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Mozambique, they have created incredible Heroes Acres where the heroes of their struggle are buried, and those memorial sites have, in many ways, become sacred places of the nation.
“Of course, we may well argue that our leaders and heroes are buried all over the country, but it does not mean that monuments that memorialise them cannot be brought together at a Heroes Acre," the President said.
The repatriation and restitution marks not just the end of a long journey, but the beginning of healing for the families they left behind.
The President also stressed the importance of South Africans recognising and honouring the former liberation heroes and heroines who have returned to their home country, acknowledging their vital role in securing the nation's freedom.
“South Africans need to know the names and appreciate the contributions of these returned freedom fighters. I ask that we read out the names of these patriots for all our people to know them.”
READ | South Africans must know the names of struggle heroes and heroines
“Their names will forever be inscribed here at the Wall of Names in Freedom Park so that we may never forget. Any nation that values its freedom holds its liberation heroes and heroines in high regard,” the President said. -SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 16:22
Government welcomes slight increases in employment
Government has welcomed the marginal employment growth and expansion of South Africa’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the second quarter of this year.
“The growth bears testament to the government’s commitment made during the State of the Nation Address in February to ensure positive economic growth that will encourage business development and provide more employment opportunities,” Acting Director-General of Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), Nomonde Mnukwa ,said on Friday.
According to the Quarterly Employment Statistics survey released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) this week, the total employment in the formal non-agricultural sector increased by 42 000 in the second quarter of 2024, bringing the level of employment to 10.7 million.
While the survey shows that 144 000 jobs were lost between June 2023 and June 2024, the total number of employees grew by 42 000 (0.4%), with employment rising from 10.67 million in March 2024 to 10.72 million by June 2024.
“The positive developments mean that government’s structural reforms are unlocking the bottlenecks and removing red tape to drive inclusive growth and job creation. South Africa’s business-friendly approach paves a positive sentiment, signalling that South Africa is becoming more and more of an investment destination,” Mnukwa said.
The GCIS said this growth shows commitment by government to work with social partners to stabilise the economy.
“The prudent economic path pursued to turn around our economy is starting to show improvement,” GCIS said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 11:51
Najwa Petersen's parole decision referred for review
The decision by the Pollsmoor Correctional Supervision and Parole Board to place convicted murderer Najwa Petersen on parole has been referred to the Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board (CSPRB) for review.
The referral was made by Minister of Correctional Services Dr Pieter Groenewald in terms of section 75(8) of the Correctional Services Act.
Peterson is serving a 28-year prison sentence for orchestrating the murder of her husband, popular artist, Taliep Petersen.
“The CSPRB is tasked with reviewing the original decision made by the Pollsmoor Correctional Supervision and Parole Board and must confirm or replace it with its own decision.
"This referral suspends the decision to place her on parole, effective from the 27th of November 2024, pending the outcome of the CSPRB,” the department said.
Furthermore, the department explained that the referral follows representations made by Taliep Petersen’s family.
“The discrepancies in Marius van der Westhuizen’s case have led to a lack of public trust. As a result, I am exercising my discretion under the provisions of the Act to ensure that Parole Boards consider all reports comprehensively to prevent future occurrences of such issues,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 14:01
South Africans must know the names of struggle heroes and heroines
President Cyril Ramaphosa has stressed the importance of South Africans recognising and honouring the former liberation heroes and heroines who have returned to their home country, acknowledging their vital role in securing the nation's freedom.
The President was speaking during the repatriation and restitution homecoming ceremony of 42 South African freedom fighters who lost their lives in Zambia and Zimbabwe during the apartheid era.
The ceremony was held at the Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum in Tshwane, Pretoria on Friday with families of the freedom fighters present.
The occasion was also graced by former President Thabo Mbeki, Minister of Defence Angie Motshekga, and the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton Mckenzie.
“South Africans need to know the names and appreciate the contributions of these returned freedom fighters. I ask that we read out the names of these patriots for all our people to know them.
“Their names will forever be inscribed here at the Wall of Names in Freedom Park so that we may never forget. Any nation that values its freedom holds its liberation heroes and heroines in high regard,” the President said.
The repatriation of the freedom fighters’ remains from Zambia and Zimbabwe forms part of the Resistance and Liberation Heritage Route Project (RLHR). The RLHR is a national memory project aimed at commemorating, celebrating, educating, promoting, preserving, conserving and providing a durable testament of South African’s road to freedom.
The repatriation initiative is part of a broader effort to bring the remains of freedom fighters who died in exile to their final resting places.
As the country celebrates the return of the struggle heroes and heroines, the President said through the act of repatriation, their citizenship has been reinstated.
“We return them to the land of their birth. We restore them to their families and their people. Decades ago, these freedom fighters left a country that was at war with itself.
“They left a country in which the fundamental rights of its people were brutally and cruelly suppressed by apartheid, which was declared a crime against humanity. Today, their remains return to a free and democratic South Africa,” he said.
The President said it will forever remain a source of regret that they were never to see the dawn of the freedom to which they dedicated their lives.
He emphasised that it was fitting that the country gathers at Freedom Park to honour them.
“It is here at Freedom Park that we remember our struggle for liberation and the many men and women who fought so that we may be free. It is here that we celebrate the achievement of our democracy.
“And it is here that we pledge to strive together, sparing neither strength nor courage, until the fundamental freedoms of every person are realised,” the President said.
Through the reparation of the remains of these freedom fighters, President Ramaphosa said the country is giving further effect to the Preamble of its Constitution.
He added that while these freedom fighters belonged to different political traditions, they were united by a common vision of a free South Africa.
“And though they departed this life many years ago, their ideals and their values continue to guide the South Africa we are building. Their activism and their sacrifices continue to inspire our efforts to build a better life for all,” he said.
The President extended his gratitude to the countries that offered these freedom fighters shelter, support and, in the end, a fitting resting place.
“We are grateful in this instance to the governments and peoples of Zambia and Zimbabwe for having taken great care of our compatriots and for enabling their remains to be repatriated,” the President said.
Preserving the nation’s liberation heritage
President Ramaphosa said government is making every effort to preserve the nation’s liberation heritage.
“To do so, we must honour all those who authored this history by taking part in the struggle to free our country. This we must continue to do because our freedom can never be taken for granted.
“We must continue to honour those men and women whose love for their country and its people motivated them to sacrifice their lives for freedom,” he said.
The President spoke in detail about a few of the struggle horoes and heroines who were well known.
One of the prominent names was that of Duma Nokwe who was the Secretary-General of the African National Congress at a crucial moment in the nation’s struggle for liberation.
“In exile, he was a prominent voice on the continent and around the world in support of the cause of the South African people.
“It is perhaps a sign of his esteemed place in the history of the liberation movement that his remains were exhumed still wearing the ANC scarf in which he was buried in Lusaka in 1978,” the President said.
Another prominent name is that of John Nyathi Pokela who was Chairman of the Pan Africanist Congress who spent more than a decade on Robben Island for his activities as a member of the Azanian People's Liberation Army, then known as Poqo.
He is remembered for the vital role he played in forging unity within the PAC. He passed away in Harare in 1985.
Another prominent leader of the Pan Africanist Congress was Edwin Letsholo Makoti.
He was a founding member of the PAC and was Secretary for Publicity and Information in the PAC Central Committee at the time of his passing in Harare in 1989.
The President spoke of the well-known Florence Mophosho, a stalwart of the struggle who is remembered for her commitment, sacrifice and fiery spirit.
“She was a great leader of our movement and a pioneer in the struggle for women’s rights. She helped us understand that no society can be free until its women are free,” he said.
The name of Basil February is also written large in the history of the nation’s struggle. As a member of the Luthuli Detachment of Umkhonto we Sizwe, he was killed in action in the then-Rhodesia during the Wankie Campaign.
“There are other freedom fighters we honour here today whose names are not as familiar. And yet their sacrifice and their contribution to our freedom is no less profound and is no less valued,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 15:19
Recruiting the right employees vital for the success of any business - Morolong
Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong says recruiting the right employees is vital for the success of any business, and this is no exception to government and to the responsible for Government Communications (GCIS) in particular.
“Finding the right talent, with the right skills, is a top priority for us as government and we cannot afford to misstep,” Morolong said.
Addressing the Public Service Day event at GCIS in Pretoria earlier today, Morolong said suitably qualified employees can contribute to a positive organisational culture.
“These employees will demonstrate the core values of the department and uphold its mission, which can lead to a stronger sense of unity and purpose among team members,” he said.
Morolong said in the not-so-distant past, government introduced a National Framework towards the Professionalisation of the Public Sector.
“Through this effort, of professionalising the public service, government also hopes to restructure its recruitment processes with the aim of ensuring appoint suitably qualified employees in order to improve on our service delivery programmes,” Morolong said.
He said to attract top talent, the GCIS should improve its brand and perception as an employer particularly among new workers entering the workforce.
“This brand repositioning or improvement must of necessity align with the new organisational structure that has been adopted,” the Deputy Minister said.
The advent of digital technologies and the attendant adoption thereof, has resulted in a fast-paced communications environment.
“It therefore follows, that as a centre of government communications, collaboration becomes even more pronounced. As GCIS, you are the centre charged with coordinating the system of Government communication.
“If the centre itself is not coherently coordinated in a collaborative manner, the system will crumble. It is therefore important to understand that failure to properly coordinate will result in GCIS failing and the system of communication weakened,” Morolong said.
He said Integrated Public Service Month (IPSM) is a well-established strategic programme of government that serves as a national platform for inter-departmental and governmental policy learning and development, as well as a public participation and engagement platform.
Every year in September, South Africa celebrates Integrated Public Service Month, honouring the values and virtues of public servants dedicated to serving their communities, as envisioned in the Batho Pele principles.
On 13 August 2019, the Joint Cabinet Committee directed that all government programs taking place during the month of September must be integrated into a single Integrated Public Service Month (IPSM).
IPSM is regarded as an integrated service delivery improvement mechanism and an essential part of government’s strategy to revitalize the Batho Pele Policy of 1997 with a specific focus on honouring those public servants who serve the nation across the three spheres of government.
It is a ‘Service Delivery Improvement Mechanism’ that seeks to reflect on the work of the Public Service in line with the values and principles for public administration as enshrined in Section 195 of the Constitution (1996) and the aspirations of the National Development Plan 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 15:34
Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has today, Friday 27 September 2024, arrived in Dublin, Ireland, on a working visit aimed at reinforcing the historic and warm bilateral relations between South Africa and Ireland.
The working visit is expected to advance cooperation between South Africa and Ireland, especially with regard to improving trade and investment, and building on the significant progress made in the fields of science and innovation, as well as education and skills development.
The Deputy President's upcoming meeting with Prime Minister Simon Harris underscores South Africa's commitment to furthering political and diplomatic ties with Ireland.
As part of his engagements, the Deputy President will participate in the Ireland-South Africa Trade and Investment Round Table, hosted by the Mission in Ireland in collaboration with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition. The engagement will focus on facilitating investment opportunities for Irish companies that are already invested in or intend to invest in South Africa.
In addition, the Deputy President is expected to deliver remarks at the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa, which was established to support innovation and entrepreneurship by fostering connections between South Africa and the Irish tech ecosystems. During the event, seven South African startups will present their innovations. These startups will receive funding and networking opportunities designed to connect them with Ireland's dynamic tech ecosystem.
The Deputy President is accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and competition Mr Andrew Whitfield.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Northern Cape's Astro Tourism a first
The Northern Cape has something new to offer tourists and it is a first for the African continent, says Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.
“Beyond all the history, culture and beauty the Northern Cape has to offer, we are here today to launch something new the Northern Cape has to offer -- Astronomy or Astro Tourism. We at the Department of Tourism, along with the Department of Science and Innovation, are launching the National Astro-Tourism Strategy, the first country on the African continent to do so,” said the Minister.
She was speaking at the launch of the National Astro-Tourism Strategy on National World Tourism Day on Friday in Carnarvon, in the Northern Cape.
“The Astro Tourism Strategy also aims to enhance the synergy between humans and conservation and a creative link between our origins of life on earth and the origins of the universe,” said the Minister.
The Astro Tourism Strategy, she said, is expected to position South Africa as a world-class astro-tourism destination, focusing on infrastructure development, the optimal functioning of astronomy-tourism streams and community transformation.
The Gazetting Notice was published today.
“We invite the public, including the tourism and astronomy stakeholders to participate and contribute towards to strengthening this very important work by submitting their comments.
“Collaboration and partnership are critically important to take this work forward and we are thankful for national, provincial and local government working together as well as the private sector to ensure sustainable growth and local community development,” said the Minister.
She said the Square Kilometre Array telescope, the largest radio telescope in the world, was a remarkable leap towards the future, and all on African soil.
She said it was exciting that the province was leading South Africa’s proactive stance in leveraging the significant advances made in the development of the world’s largest space telescope array, with a comprehensive astro-tourism strategy.
“Today, we are here to cast the spotlight on these experiences and more and to invite South Africans, and indeed visitors from the rest of the world, to come explore this province and to engage with living cultures and traditions that continue to thrive here in the Northern Cape.
“We want to use the SKA and the Astro Tourism as a catalyst to develop the Karoo and provide opportunities for rural tourism as well as agri-tourism to develop rural areas further. The Northern Cape is the prime location to launch this strategy as 50% of the world’s population cannot see the beauty of the night sky but the African sky still remains at an advantage, by having the clearest and darkest night sky.”
The vision of the Astro Tourism strategy aims to develop and position an inclusive Astro-Tourism sector that will yield sustainable benefit-sharing opportunities by maximising on marketing efforts and enhancing visitor experience in South Africa.
The National Astro-Tourism strategic pillars were developed through a multi-discipline consultancy process involving both the tourism and astronomy stakeholders in South Africa.
The Implementation Plan’s goal is to grow astro-tourism in South Africa will be implemented, monitored and evaluated according to the three strategic pillars:
· Pillar One: Indigenous Celestial Narratives and Human Capacity Development
· Pillar Two: Infrastructure Development
· Pillar Three: Inclusive Tourism Growth and Partnerships
“There is so much untapped potential in our tourism market and we must work together on all levels of government, with the private to promote our hidden gems and give more business to SMEs and community tourism,” added the Minister. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 14:50
Public servants applauded for transforming public service
Public Service and Administration Minister Mzamo Buthelezi has applauded all those who have played and continue to play a vital role in transforming the public service which is a responsibility that most bear with utmost seriousness.
“The history of our public service has been shaped by the very people who dared to envision a future where public administration serves as a catalyst for positive change and a beacon of hope for every citizen,” Buthelezi said.
Addressing the Annual Conference of the South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) 23rd gala dinner held in Johannesburg on Thursday, Buthelezi said as the country marks 30 years of democracy, the country reflects on the giants who laid the foundation of service, such as the father of democracy President Nelson Mandela and the Statesman Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi.
“It is unarguable that their legacy challenges us to build a capable, ethical and professional public service. It does not matter the many difficult and different challenges we face. It remains our duty to restore trust and uphold their values of integrity,” Buthelezi said.
Buthelezi said it is this vision that has inspired countless leaders to go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that service delivery is not just a function but a manifestation of the principles of fairness, justice and inclusivity.
“While we continue cutting a cloth woven in the fabric of such rich and great legacies and trying to navigate the landscape of the 7th Administration, we also find ourselves at a crossroads - where values and legacies of the past must guide us in crafting a future that reflects our highest aspirations.
“The 7th Administration which is the Government of National Unity (GNU) has placed at its core the principles of accountability, transparency and inclusive governance. These are the very ideals that our predecessors embodied - and it is upon this very same foundation that we must build,” Buthelezi said.
Buthelezi said the demands of the 21st century call for a public service that is agile, skilled and grounded in the principles of Batho Pele - which is putting people first.
“We must be unwavering in our commitment to ensuring that every decision we make and every action we take - reflects the values that our predecessors strongly championed.
“It is upon each of us, especially the current generation of public servants to draw inspiration from their courage and wisdom as we strive to create a government that truly works for its people,” the minister said.
Buthelezi said the relationship between the public service, public servants and SAAPAM, in addition to being concerned with how things are and work right now, must also be about innovation and creating new and better forms of delivery of public goods and basic services.
“For this to work, we also must explore the idea of expanded peer review mechanisms for academia, to include the intended beneficiary of the knowledge produced by SAAPAM academics.
“This means that as scholars, it is important to make the knowledge you produce to be accessible, relevant and responsive to the needs of South Africans,” the minister said.
The SAAPAM mission is to encourage and promote good governance and effective service delivery through the advancement of professionalism, scholarship and practice in public administration and management.
SAAPAM consists of a National Board and Provincial Chapters. The National Board is elected every two years from among the SAAPAM membership. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 09:33
Next Engineers, a global college-and career-readiness programme working to increase the diversity of young people in engineering, celebrated the graduation of its first-ever Engineering Academy learners in Johannesburg, South Africa on Friday, September 27. The graduation ceremony marked the programme's contribution towards bridging the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills gap in the country through exposing learners to hands-on engineering experiences and career pathways.
The 37 learners from 15 high schools across Johannesburg who completed the programme, many of whom plan to study towards an engineering-related qualification at university or technical higher learning institutions, were joined by their families at University of Witwatersrand, Sturrock Park Sports Hall, to celebrate their achievements. Launched in 2022, PROTEC, University of Witwatersrand, and Kutitiva Foundation are the educational partners for the local Next Engineers programme, and local GE Vernova engineers and employees actively engage with Academy participants through hands-on, skill-based volunteering.
“We are proud to see our first cohort of learners graduating and wish them all a successful learning trajectory in the next stage of their education journey,” said Matsi Eseu, South Africa HR Director for GE Vernova. “At GE Vernova, we believe education is a significant driver of economic inclusion and it's inspiring to see the positive impact the Next Engineers programme is having, not just in empowering tomorrow's engineers who will solve society's most pressing challenges but also in increasing the diversity of young people, particularly females, in the engineering sector. We extend our gratitude to all those involved in the Engineering Academy.”
Learners who complete the Engineering Academy program and enroll in a qualified engineering or engineering-related degree programme receive financial aid to support them as they continue on their paths to becoming engineers.
Balan Moodley, CEO of PROTEC, said, "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every graduate in this programme. Their commitment and hard work inspire us all, and I have every confidence they will continue to make a positive impact in the field of engineering and beyond. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to GE Vernova in Johannesburg for their unwavering support and partnership throughout this journey. Together, we have laid the groundwork for a brighter future in engineering, and I am excited to see the continued success of Next Engineers in empowering young minds."
The Next Engineers: Engineering Academy is a transformative learning experience designed for learners aged 15 to 18. Through a rigorous curriculum, immersive design challenges, and career coaching, participants learn to think and act like engineers.
Key programme highlights:
Johannesburg, South Africa, was among the first four locations to launch Next Engineers, with a $2.5 million (R44.6 million) investment from the GE Foundation in 2021. To date, Next Engineers, which also includes programming for learners in grades 8-12, has reached more than 3,500 learners across Johannesburg.
STEM training and education, such as Next Engineers, is helping to solve global challenges while also lifting up communities through economic opportunities. Next Engineers is not the only way GE Vernova in South Africa has committed to supporting the next generation of STEM talent. GE Vernova's South Africa External Bursary Programme has offered comprehensive bursaries to the tune of $5.4 million (R95.6 million) to support over 648 beneficiaries pursuing a Bachelor of Science, Commerce or Arts qualification from 2020 to date. The bursaries are aimed at alleviating the financial strain of tertiary students and covers the tuition, accommodation, textbook costs, and a monthly stipend over the period of study.
For more information about Next Engineers and the Engineering Academy, visit http://apo-opa.co/3BmFfKp.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GE.
Media contacts:
GE Vernova
Kashumba Macombe
Communications Specialist
GE Vernova
Kashumba.Macombe@ge.com
PROTEC
Annette Reed
Fundraising and Business Development
Programme for Technological Careers (PROTEC)
+27 82 334 2939
annette@protec.org.za
About Next Engineers:
Next Engineers, a program originally funded by the GE Foundation in 2021, now known as the GE Aerospace Foundation, is a college- and career-readiness program dedicated to inspiring and preparing the next generation of engineers. Through innovative programs, mentorship, and community partnerships, we empower young minds to shape a better future through engineering.
About GE Vernova:
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Mashatile undertakes working visits to Ireland and the UK
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is today undertaking a working visit to Ireland to reinforce South Africa’s historic and warm bilateral relations with the nation.
The Deputy President is expected to meet his Irish counterpart, Prime Minister Simon Harris, to reaffirm the strong political and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
According to the Presidency, South Africa and Ireland established diplomatic relations over 30 years ago and relations between both nations encompass a broad spectrum of cooperation, such as trade and investment, education, science and innovation and gender equality.
“Ireland’s developmental programmes have greatly assisted many initiatives in South Africa since 1994, and the partnership continues to this day,” the statement read.
During the visit, the Deputy President will participate in the South Africa-Ireland Trade and Investment Round Table with Irish companies that are already invested in or intend to invest in South Africa.
He is also expected to deliver remarks at the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship by fostering connections between the South African and Irish tech ecosystems.
The Deputy President will be accompanied to Ireland by the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Andrew Whitfield.
Once he wraps up his Ireland visit, the country’s second-in-command will then proceed to the United Kingdom from Saturday, 29 September to Friday, 4 October 2024.
“The visit will focus on showcasing South Africa as an investment destination of choice and strive to identify and create new trade opportunities for South African businesses, especially small and medium enterprises.”
The island nation is also one of South Africa’s most significant bilateral partners in the northern hemisphere, particularly in trade, investment, skills development, science, innovation, the Just Energy Transition and tourism, among others.
The Deputy President is expected to engage selected investors and trade partners invited in cooperation with economic partners in the United Kingdom and deliver a lecture at School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) University in London, focusing on South Africa’s forthcoming Presidency of the G20.
“The Deputy President will also pay a courtesy call on the Duke of Edinburgh, and meet the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Angela Rayner.”
He will be accompanied by the International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola, Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson, Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni Abrahams and some of the Deputy Ministers from various departments. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 10:39
Deaf Awareness Month, a moment of reflection on progress made
By Morapedi Sibeko
This September, as we commemorate Deaf Awareness Month, it is a good moment to look back on the progress made in recognising South African Sign Language (SASL) and to raise awareness of the experiences of Deaf people, whose voices emphasise the continued need for inclusion and activism.
The South African National Deaf Association (SANDA) estimates that there are over four million Deaf and hard of hearing people in South Africa. Fundamental human rights include the right to language, and for Deaf people, SASL is essential to their full participation in society. They risk being shut out of opportunities for work, education, and other necessities without it. Acknowledging SASL as an official language is about more than just respecting language rights; it's about giving the Deaf community equity, inclusion, dignity, and self-determination.
In 2023, South Africa achieved a breakthrough in the advancement of Deaf rights when a Constitutional Amendment Bill was passed, recognising South African Sign Language (SASL) as the nation's 12th official language. The purpose of this legislation is to provide complete linguistic inclusion and access to services, education, and employment in order to advance the rights and dignity of South Africans who are deaf. Section 9 of the Constitution guarantees the rights of those who are deaf and hard of hearing. The amendment primarily aims to enhance inclusivity, cultural acceptability of SASL, and the deaf culture.
The Department of Social Development's (DSD), policy framework Policy on Social Development Services to Persons with Disabilities (PSDSPD) emphasises the mainstreaming of people with disabilities throughout all sectors of society, illustrating the government's dedication to promoting full inclusion and equal access to opportunities for the Deaf community. These actions demonstrate how South Africa is making significant progress toward fostering Deaf rights and fostering inclusivity.
Another significant achievement is the selection of partially deaf Miss South Africa 2024, Natasha Joubert. Her success emphasises how more and more Deaf people are appearing in prominent roles, which highlights the significance of ongoing advocacy for complete inclusion and the implementation of laws that promote equitable opportunities for all.
Nenio Mbazima, a Deaf entrepreneur, founded Strong Wind to address the economic disadvantage of the Deaf community. He noticed that Deaf people often teach hearing people sign language, leading to economic exclusion for the Deaf individuals who have helped spread the language. This insight inspired him to launch a business that offers interpreting services and supports Deaf people in starting their own enterprises. Mbazima further explained, "I urge Deaf people to launch and register their own businesses as sign language service providers whenever I get the chance."
Even though Deaf rights have improved, more work remains to be done. True equality necessitates ongoing efforts to advance inclusivity, accessibility, assist Deaf-owned businesses, and increase public awareness of the significance of Deaf inclusion across all domains. As we commemorate Deaf Awareness Month, we are reminded of the need to keep up the fight for complete inclusion, financial empowerment, and acknowledgement of Deaf-owned companies. We cannot guarantee that the advancements made today will lead to lasting improvements for the Deaf community tomorrow unless we make consistent efforts.
*Morapedi Sibeko is the Events Manager at the Department of Social Development
Janine
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 10:56
Digital advertising in South Africa is on the rise, driven by business-oriented trends, says this year’s IAB South Africa Internet Advertising Revenue Report, also known as the Online AdSpend Report. The annual report, conducted in partnership with PwC, seeks to accurately measure the total revenue generated by domestic online media, including mobile advertising. Paula Hulley, …
Motsoaledi warns leaders against antimicrobial resistance
Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has described antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a ticking time bomb that could return the world to an era where common infections are untreatable, and routine surgeries become life-threatening.
“I stand before you with a sense of urgency and hope that as we join hands to tackle the problem of AMR, we have a full appreciation of the significant threat it poses to global health, food security and development,” he said on Thursday.
The Minister was speaking at the United Nations on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa at the high-level meeting on AMR.
Motsoaledi believes that ARM is currently a pressing challenge, and he told world leaders that South Africa was one of the high-burden countries of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB), where this makes up 2% of the TB burden.
The World Health Organisation (WHO), he stated, has identified DR-TB as one of the top AMR threats.
“However, in responding to this threat, we continue to lag behind, especially on TB research, and global collaboration. This situation has the potential to reverse many decades of medical advancements,” he stressed.
According to the WHO, AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to medicines, leading to infections becoming difficult or impossible to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.
Motsoaledi said the risks of these illnesses have profound economic implications, affecting healthcare costs, productivity, and overall economic growth.
“Addressing AMR is not just a health imperative but also an economic necessity that requires coordinated global action.”
He is of the view that specific actions need to be taken to preserve efforts and to ensure collective action, which must turn the tide against AMR.
“We must embrace the power of education about the prudent use of antibiotics so that we can curb the misuse and overuse that drive resistance in humans, plants and animals.”
In addition, he spoke against the practice of polypharmacy, especially as it relates to unnecessary utilisation of antibiotics.
“We also need an integrated national patient information system, so that the patients cannot be hopping between health facilities, thus collecting multiple prescriptions for the same condition.”
The Minister also called for investment in research and innovation, which he said requires some urgent intervention, through academic and research institutions.
He took the time to call for a strengthened healthcare system – equipping hospitals and clinics with the necessary tools and training will ensure that infections are identified and treated promptly and accurately.
Also, the Minister stressed the importance of champion policy and advocacy and effective policies that promote antibiotic stewardship and infection prevention can safeguard our communities.
“Lastly, we need to jointly tackle the challenges of human behaviour through the social and behaviour community communication, so that we can educate our people about the dangers of AMR.”
Motsoaledi said AMR has greater potential to also impact patient satisfaction, prolonged patient recovery and poor treatment success rate.
“Together, we can turn this crisis into an opportunity – a chance to unite, innovate, and lead the world in the fight against antimicrobial resistance,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 11:20
The sheer avalanche of news these days means that publishers often miss releases from trusted sources. MyPR offers a number of ways in which publishers can republish content posted on MyPR. From individual articles to every single one, to articles by location, category or author. Using freely available tools the savvy publisher can save time …
Police rescue kidnap victims
Police have rescued two victims, believed to be victims of alleged kidnapping.
The victims were reportedly released by their kidnappers due to the pressure exerted upon the suspects by the police. This was as a result of an intelligence-driven operation consisting of the Cash-In-Transit Interim Team of the Hawks, Tactical Response Team (TRT), Crime Intelligence (CI), Provincial Tracing Team and Hostage Negotiators. The victims were held hostage and released after eight days.
It alleged that a 39-year-old victim was accosted by unidentified suspects whilst she was driving a Toyota Fortuner, travelling to Umngazi Resort, Port St John's, on 20 September 2024.
In another incident, a 34-year-old victim was also accosted by unidentified suspects on 17 September 2024 between Barkley East and Elliot.
The investigations by the joint team ensued, where the police were working around the clock.
As a result, the victims were allegedly dropped off by a white Toyota single cab bakkie nearby Sulenkama Police Station. Both victims were released unharmed but were traumatised and were taken to a health care facility for medical assistance. The investigations are still underway.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, applauded the joint team for making sure that the victims were released unharmed and reunited with their families. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 09:51
Awareness of autism and the impact it can have on people’s lives is growing all the time, but there is still a long way to go. Thanks to Jozi 4 Autism and their headline sponsors – Elenjical, Neurodiversity Centre and Freeway Toyota, and event partners – Autism South Africa (ASA), Caring Women’s Forum and FEED, …
NPA scores Steinhoff victory
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured its first conviction, sentence and confiscation order related to the Steinhoff case.
This after the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Pretoria sentenced former Steinhoff physician, Dr Gerhardus Burger, to some five years imprisonment – wholly suspended for five years, if he is not found guilty of contravention of section 78(2) of the Financial Markets Act within that period.
According to the NPA spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana, Burger also has to “testify in the criminal proceedings against his accomplices”.
“The court also issued a confiscation order for €90,000 which is about R1.8 million seized by Swiss authorities after the collapse of Steinhoff. This is after Dr Burger pleaded guilty to three counts of insider trading and was convicted as such when he appeared in court.
“The Steinhoff case, one of the biggest cases of corporate fraud in the history of South Africa, has been one of the most complex commercial crime cases that the [Hawks] and the NPA have had to deal with.
“At a point when a significant breakthrough was made to enrol the case earlier this year, the main accused, ex-CEO of Steinhoff, Markus Jooste, took his life on the eve of his arrest, thus escaping the hands of justice when it mattered the most,” she said.
The spokesperson explained that just before the Steinhoff collapse, the late CEO sent Dr Burger who accompanied Steinhoff directors on overseas trips to look after their health, a text advising him to sell his Steinhoff shares.
“Burger thereafter sold all the Steinhoff shares held under the Dieter Burger and Lane Burger Trusts where his children are beneficiaries. He also sold 39,722 Steinhoff shares held at Stefana Overseas Ltd, where Dr Burger was also the beneficiary, on the Swiss stock exchange.
“Shortly after the sale of the shares, Steinhoff shares plummeted and became almost worthless. At that point the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) instituted investigations where Dr Burger was convicted and found guilty of insider trading for the same transactions and paid a penalty of R3 million to FSCA. FSCA then referred the matter to the NPA for criminal prosecution.
“The National Prosecuting Authority welcomes the conviction and sentence. It is important for the public to understand that criminal prosecutions require patience, preparation, and a certain measure of certainty,” Mahanjana said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 09:54
Government warns of anticipated drop in temperatures with possible snowfall
Acting Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has urged South Africans to exercise caution in light of the South African Weather Service's (SAWS) alert regarding expected drops in temperature and possible snowfall.
This comes after parts of the country were hit by heavy snowfall, affecting Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape over the past weekend.
Heavy snowfall caused havoc on the N3 toll route and other regional roads, stranding scores of motorists, including truck drivers and bus commuters and causing loss of life.
Meanwhile, according to the SAWS, light snow can be expected over the Drakensberg this weekend.
The forecasters said weather conditions are expected to change significantly with predictions of cooling over the escarpment regions of South Africa, extending from the Western Cape up to the southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
Indicators also show that daytime temperatures are likely to start cooling down over the Western Cape from Sunday, 29 September 2024, reaching the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal region by Monday, 30 September 2024.
In a statement released by the SAWS, the expected snowfall will follow a similar trend, starting in the Western Cape early on Sunday morning, 29 September 2024 and spreading eastward towards KwaZulu-Natal Monday morning, 30 September 2024.
“Snowfall is expected to clear up in the Western Cape and western parts of the Eastern Cape by Monday evening.”
However, snowfall will persist on Tuesday, 1 October 2024, over the eastern parts of Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the department, the cold front will also bring rain and showers to the Western Cape and surrounding areas.
“Temperatures are set to drop significantly, particularly in higher regions, with some areas experiencing highs below 10°C on Monday.
“Strong winds and large ocean swells are anticipated along the South Coast. Rainfall is expected to be around 30 mm from September 29 to October 1, with light snowfall in high areas of the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, and southern KwaZulu-Natal.”
The Acting CoGTA Minister has since reiterated the SAWS’ precautions for citizens to listen to warnings on the radio or television, stay indoors, dress warmly if going outside, and cover their mouths in extreme cold to protect their lungs.
Kubayi also suggested that people avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and smoking, as this increases the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.
She also urged residents and farmers to keep small livestock sheltered from the cold. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 09:39
Johannesburg – 27 September 2024 – AOW, in collaboration with Lean In Equity & Sustainability, has included development economist Kalnisha Singh in its Pan-African Female Leaders in Energy Power List 2024. Kalnisha Singh contributes to the emerging renewable energy sector through several innovative avenues. As founder of KD Strategies and Our Common Future, she provides …
When it comes to brand-specific warranties, drivers of popular makes such as Toyota, BMW, and VW can benefit from plans tailored to their vehicles. These warranties provide coverage for common issues associated with specific models, ensuring that repairs are handled efficiently and effectively. For Toyota owners, a Toyota extended warranty offers coverage beyond the manufacturer’s …
Must-Have Tech and Appliances for Your Home Shopping for tech and appliances can sometimes feel overwhelming with the wide range of options available. From practical solutions like inverters to entertainment upgrades like a Smart TV Box, there’s something for everyone. This guide covers the essential gadgets and appliances for sale that can enhance your home …