MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Accidental exposure to harmful chemicals is always a risk, particularly in industries that involve the handling of hazardous substances. For this reason, having access to eye wash stations is crucial for ensuring quick first-aid responses in emergencies. What are Eye Wash Stations? An eye wash station is a piece of safety equipment that allows workers …
By Dr Ridwaan Asvat (Director Student Services – Regent Business School) Investing in employee education is no longer just about personal development; it’s a powerful way to advance a company’s goals. HR managers are increasingly tasked with ensuring these investments align with the company’s strategic objectives. By tailoring learning paths to support business strategies, companies …
As South Africa prepares to celebrate Heritage Day on the 24th of September, Isilumko Staffing reflects on the richness of our own heritage as a business and the diverse backgrounds of our employees. Heritage Day is a time to honour the country’s rich cultural diversity and to acknowledge the importance of embracing the traditions, values, …
Condolences to family of victim affected by freezing weather conditions
The Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga has extended her heartfelt condolences to the family of the woman who lost her life in adverse weather conditions that hit parts of the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.
"We are deeply saddened to learn that a woman lost her life to hypothermia due to these unprecedented weather conditions. She was a passenger in a taxi travelling from Johannesburg to KwaZulu-Natal," the Minister said in a statement on Wednesday.
The 39-year-old woman died on Saturday while trapped in the blizzard that engulfed the N3 between Van Reenen’s Pass, connecting KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State.
This was confirmed by paramedic services, Midlands EMS [emergency medical services] Rescue Medics, in a statement.
According to the medical service, the Midlands EMS Howick crews, along with Midlands EMS Rescue Medics, were dispatched to a shopping centre in Merrivale for a person who had collapsed after being exposed to severe cold overnight, while in a taxi stuck in traffic in the snow.
READ | Heavy snowfall on N3 claims life of a 39-year-old woman
Chikunga commended the exemplary selflessness and solidarity shown by South Africans who came to each other's aid in what were life-threatening circumstances.
She also added that South Africa is experiencing unusual climate change related incidents, marked by an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, as well as rising mortality rates.
The severity of these events continues to disproportionately affect marginalised communities—those who often lack the resources to cope—most of whom are women and persons with disabilities.
“While this is a global phenomenon, the impact of climate change related disasters is not uniform. Recent research published by the World Bank shows that "across the globe, women and persons with disabilities experience mortality rates up to four times higher in natural disasters than those without.
“We express our condolences to those who have lost their loved ones, and we urge all South Africans to closely monitor weather reports to avoid areas projected to experience extreme weather conditions,” the Minister said.
In his address at the National Heritage Day celebrations on Tuesday, Acting President Paul Mashatile emphasised the need to recognise the growing impact of climate change on the nation's well-being and cultural heritage.
Mashatile urged citizens to be mindful of how climate change threatens both livelihoods and cultural traditions.
The Acting President expressed his honour in addressing the nation on Heritage Day but noted that celebrations were overshadowed by severe weather affecting parts of KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Free State.
“It is a great honour and privilege to address you at this significant occasion as we celebrate our country’s Heritage Day. Unfortunately, as we were looking forward to this day, some parts of our country, which include Kwa-Zulu Natal, Eastern Cape and Free State, were impacted by severe weather conditions, exacerbated by climate change,” he said at the celebrations held in Ficksburg, Free State.
READ | Let’s be alive to the impact of climate change – Acting President Mashatile
Meanwhile, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) said the country is set to experience a mix of warm and cool temperatures in the coming days, with a significant drop in temperatures and even light snowfall expected later this month.
This after the weekend’s freezing temperatures and snowfall in some parts of the country caused havoc on the roads, resulting in one fatality.
READ | SA Weather Service forecasts warm week followed by light snow
-SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 11:11
KZN reports second-highest HIV prevalence rate in SA
KwaZulu-Natal has recorded the second-highest HIV prevalence rate at 16% in 2022, down from 18% in 2017.
According to the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), this translates to 1 980 000 people living with HIV (PLHIV) in KwaZulu-Natal, which was a decline from 1 990 000 in 2017.
The information is based on the findings of the Sixth South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence and Behaviour Survey (SABSSM VI).
SAnews reported last week that Mpumalanga now has the highest HIV prevalence at 17.4% in 2022, which translates to an estimated 890 000 (PLHIV) in the province.
READ | Mpumalanga records highest HIV prevalence rate
According to the overall principal investigator of the study, the HSRC’s Professor Khangelani Zuma, the survey showed that in 2022, HIV prevalence in the province was higher among those aged 25 to 49 (31.1%), for both females (38.4%) and males (21.5%).
HIV prevalence was also higher among those residing in rural formal or farm areas (20%).
“HIV prevalence peaked at 44.5% among those aged 45 to 49 in 2022 from 39.7% in 2017 among those aged 35 to 39, indicating a possibility of continuing infections among older people. HIV prevalence had decreased by 2022 among all age groups younger than 40 years compared to 2017,” Zuma said.
By district, in 2022, HIV prevalence was highest in uMgungundlovu (19.5%).
The data presented are for eight priority districts within KwaZulu-Natal namely, eThekwini, Harry Gwala, King Cetshwayo, Ugu, uMgungundlovu, uThukela, Zululand and uMkhanyakude districts, as per the study protocol.
Antiretroviral treatment
Antiretroviral treatment (ART) coverage in KwaZulu-Natal increased to 87.3% in 2022, from 71.2% in 2017.
The ART coverage estimate translates to an estimated 1 609 000 PLHIV in the province receiving treatment in 2022.
In 2022, ART use among all PLHIV in the province was lowest among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 (62.8%) compared to other age groups.
ART use was also lower among both males (58.8%) and females (64%) in this age group compared to other age groups.
Among children aged zero to 14, ART use among males was 83.5% compared to females (65.9%). Among rural formal areas, ART use among males (93.3%) was comparable to females (93.6%).
The SABSSM VI survey, conducted between 2022 and 2023, aimed to maintain surveillance of HIV infection and behaviours in South Africa, evaluate the progress of the South African national HIV and AIDS, STI and TB Strategic Plan, and monitor HIV indicators for national and international reporting.
Viral load suppression
On the viral load suppression, the survey further revealed that, in 2022, among all provinces, KwaZulu-Natal had the highest proportion of all PLHIV with VLS (86.8%), having increased from 2017 (67.8%).
Knowledge of HIV status
The professor expressed concern that those aged between 25 and 49 accounted for the majority of PLHIV in the province (68.3%) who were unaware of their HIV status (54.5%), aware but not on ART (63.5%), and on ART but not virally suppressed (66.4%).
“However, adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 contribute disproportionally to gaps in treatment, accounting for just 8.5% of all PLHIV, but 28.4% of those unaware of their HIV status, 19.1% of those aware but not on ART and 15.7% of those on ART but not virally suppressed.”
Sex debut
Regarding the key drivers of the HIV pandemic, Zuma noted that, in KwaZulu-Natal, there was no change in the proportion of adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 who reported having sex before the age of 15 in 2017 (8.2%) compared to 2022 (8.6%).
However, sexual debut before the age of 15 among adolescents and youth between 15 and 24 years in 2022 was higher among males (12.3%) than females (4.8%).
The survey revealed that 11% of people aged 15 and older reported having multiple sexual partners in 2022 compared to 9.4% in 2017.
The proportion of people aged 15 and older who reported having multiple sexual partners was five-fold higher among males (18.6%), compared to females (3.5%), and 1.5-fold higher among those aged 15 to 24 (16.3%) compared to those aged 25 to 49 (10.9%).
The proportion of people who reported having multiple sexual partners was highest in Harry Gwala (14.1%) and lowest in uThukela (7.6%).
Condom use
Regarding condom use, the survey revealed that 32.8% reported using a condom with the most recent sexual partner in 2022 compared to 44.9% in 2017, representing a 12.1% decline.
In KwaZulu-Natal, a higher proportion also reported that they never (45.2%) used a condom with their most recent sexual partner.
“Only 9.3% reported that they used condoms almost every time.”
Meanwhile, consistency of condom uses with the most recent sexual partner among people aged 15 and older in the province was higher among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 (26.7%) compared to those aged 25 to 49 (16.5%).
“However, nearly 60% of youth reported only using a condom sometimes or never.”
Zuma recommended a long-term strategy to care for people in an ageing HIV epidemic as well as tailored interventions to address gaps in the “clinical cascade”.
“We also recommend a continued focus on increasing coverage and demand for medical male circumcision among males aged 15 and older. We must also enhance public awareness and uptake of effective HIV prevention measures, such as regular HIV testing, condoms and PrEP [pre-exposure prophylaxis],” Zuma added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 11:12
TNPA invites service providers for Liquefied Natural Gas at Ngqura
The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), in collaboration with Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), has approached the market for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
This is to encourage interested parties to submit proposals for the envisaged Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal at the Port of Ngqura.
READ | Port investments to contribute towards SA economy
The Request For Proposals (RFP) process will see the appointment of a service provider contracted to assess the environmental compliance and sustainability of the proposed LNG terminal.
This involves conducting a detailed analysis of ecological and local regulations to determine critical environmental authorisations. These include a seismic survey, marine ecology, climate change impact assessment and socio-economic assessment to support the project.
The EIA process is carried out in tandem with negotiations of the Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) between TNPA and the Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF) to build and operate an onshore LNG regasification facility at the Port of Ngqura for 30 years.
The appointment of SFF is the outcome of a Section 79 process and directive issued by the former Minister of Transport, in accordance with the National Ports Act of 2005.
“This milestone is a critical step towards the development of the LNG terminal at the Port of Ngqura. Through its commercial seaports, TNPA is at the forefront of enabling the gas-to-power project pipeline whilst ensuring the security of supply and unlocking global opportunities for sustainable impact,” said Acting TNPA Chief Executive, Phyllis Difeto.
The Port of Ngqura LNG Terminal is one of 12 priority infrastructure projects announced in March 2024 that hold a Strategic Integrated Project (SIP) status.
The triad strategic partnership is fast-tracking the conclusion of the EAI, with the RFP closing on 30 October 2024. This partnership will also see the issuing of the RFP for Prefeasibility Studies by end September 2024.
“ISA is established to provide strategic, technical and financial advisory support to project sponsors for the planning, preparation, development and implementation of national pipeline projects and strategic integrated projects,” said Mameetse Masemola, the Acting Head of Infrastructure South Africa.
“This project is one of the flagship projects which we are proud to support and excited that progress is moving at a good pace,” he said.
Tender documents can be accessed on: https://www.idc.co.za/tenders/ and https://www.etenders.gov.za/ - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 11:28
The Interactive Advertising Bureau South Africa (IAB South Africa) announced today that its current CEO, Razia Pillay, will step down from her role at the end of September 2024. Since assuming the position in January 2022, Pillay has been instrumental in driving the organisation’s growth and transformation. Under her leadership, IAB South Africa has successfully …
Call for unity in the empowerment of women
Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike has called on nations to unite all efforts and resources for the empowerment of women and girls.
The Deputy Minister was addressing a side event of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) held in New York on Wednesday.
She acknowledged that the challenge of women empowerment “is great” with women and girls facing many obstacles.
“We reiterate the severity of this challenge before us as the state of women’s empowerment leaves little to be desired, and the overall picture is consistent globally, with pockets of excellence in certain areas of development.
“Women still own a smaller share of global wealth compared to men, with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) reporting that women owned $72 trillion of global wealth in 2020 which translates to about 17% of the total value of the global wealth held by individuals in that year.
“This disparity is linked to factors such as gender pay gaps, unequal access to financial services, and fewer opportunities for leadership roles,” Letsike said.
She added that although the challenges facing women empowerment are “evolving at an unprecedented pace”, a brighter future for all can be forged by “uniting our efforts and resources”.
“The Education Plus Initiative stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the pathway toward empowerment for girls and young women in the fight against the spread of HIV and an increase of AIDS related deaths.
“It emphasises the vital importance of equipping women with education and skills, access to finance, security of land tenure, entrepreneurial opportunities and appointment of women to positions of leadership in both the private and public sectors.
“By doing so, we not only enhance women’s participation in the labour market but also unlock women’s immense potential to drive sustainable economic growth as meaningful participants in the various sectors of the economy.”
The Deputy Minister added that nations need to adopt an “intersectional lens as we advance policy for the empowerment of women and adolescent girls”.
“This will ensure that the unique and overlapping experiences of individuals or groups are recognised, thereby allowing us to craft our agenda to be more equitable and inclusive.
“As leaders and stakeholders in this transformative journey, we bear a profound responsibility to ensure our institutions and policies are adept at addressing the challenges of both today and tomorrow, particularly for marginalised persons,” Letsike said.
She called on world leaders to build a better future for women and girls today.
“As we move forward, let us be inspired by the potential within our youth, especially our girls. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the catalysts of change today.
“Together, we can build a world where their dreams are not limited by their circumstances, but rather fuelled by the opportunities we create for them,” Letsike said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is leading South Africa’s delegation to the High-Level General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly (UNGA79) in the United States of America. The debate of the UNGA79 is taking place at the United Nations headquarters in New York, from 24 to 30 September 2024.
– SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 11:45
Montreal is a vibrant city with a diverse culinary landscape, including a variety of kosher dining options. Whether you’re in search of traditional Jewish dishes or contemporary kosher cuisine, Montreal’s kosher restaurants cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. What Makes a Kosher Restaurant? Kosher restaurants follow Jewish dietary laws, ensuring all …
By Erick Wessels, Sales Director, RS South Africa (www.Africa.RSdelivers.com).
The mining industry is facing significant challenges, from financial pressures leading to reduced margins and demanding stakeholders adding to procurement costs. Success in such an environment requires partnering with a supplier that is collaborative, flexible, and forward-thinking. RS stands as the ideal partner to help businesses in the mining sector achieve their goals while saving time and money.
Optimising supply management
At RS, we are committed to enhancing your supply management performance to drive commercial success. Our suite of next-generation inventory, procurement, and maintenance solutions is designed to reduce costs and optimise productivity. Leveraging advanced data insights, we help you streamline your supply chain, refine your processes, and identify cost-saving strategies that reduce the total cost of ownership and boost operational efficiency.
Ensuring safety in hazardous environments
Whether open cut or underground, all mining operations present extreme dangers. With stringent Health and Safety regulations in place, the risks associated with dust and other hazards must be meticulously managed. Compliance with IECEx legislation is crucial, necessitating the use of intrinsically safe products. Given the hazardous and arduous nature of the mining industry, safety is of paramount concern. Therefore, reliable PPE and safety equipment specification are critical.
RS offers a rapidly expanding range of PPE and workwear from trusted local and global suppliers, designed specifically for the harsh environments of the mining industry. Our products ensure site safety and security with advanced locks, security alarms and sensors, CCTV, and surveillance systems. In addition, we provide innovative automation and control technology to safely manage and automate processes, including signalling, sensors, and industrial robots.
Advanced energy management
Economic and environmental challenges drive the need for maximum energy efficiency in the mining industry. With carbon net zero on the horizon, energy efficiency has become a crucial topic. Our products, services, and solutions are tailored to help mining clients reduce CO2 emissions and energy consumption, thereby lowering overall costs.
We collaborate with you to understand your specific needs and apply a suite of energy-efficient products and services expertly designed to simplify energy management. Our solutions, backed by digital expertise, leverage the latest in energy efficiency technology to minimise energy waste, reduce carbon footprints, and assist you to meet your energy efficiency targets. From LED lighting to energy meters, we provide the right products to achieve your energy efficiency, health and safety, and productivity goals.
Committed to environmental management
Mining, by its very nature, has a significant impact on the environment. The industry is making great strides to mitigate these effects and ensure healthy air, land, and water in the areas where they operate. RS offers a range of products and solutions to help you manage and minimise the environmental impact of your mining operations.
Partnering with RS gives you access to our comprehensive range of solutions designed to support your mission, enhance safety, optimise energy use, and reduce environmental impact. Together, we can navigate the challenges of the mining industry and achieve sustained success.
For more information about RS South Africa's initiatives and product range, visit their website (http://apo-opa.co/3ZE7ZYV) and follow them on LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/3Brll0x) for regular updates on their impactful work.
Mining brochure: https://apo-opa.co/3ZFt6ds
Mining Campaign: https://apo-opa.co/3ZE7ZYV
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.
PR Contact Person - RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications & Content Specialist
RS South Africa
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366
Media Contact Person – NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763
Further information is available via these links:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3XVkzSl
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3zvhhvU
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4dne5QT
RS Africa Exports: http://apo-opa.co/3XUE7q5
RS South Africa: http://apo-opa.co/3XVZ8k3
DesignSpark: http://apo-opa.co/4dsAjkA
RS Group plc: http://apo-opa.co/3ZDW6SX
RS Group:
RS Group plc is a leading global omni-channel industrial product and service solutions provider to customers who are involved in designing, building and maintaining industrial equipment and operations, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 700,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, and provide a wide range of product and service solutions to over 1.2 million customers. With operations in 31 countries, we trade through multiple channels and ship over 60,000 parcels a day.
We support customers across the product life cycle, whether via innovation and technical support at the design phase, improving time to market and productivity at the build phase, or reducing purchasing costs and optimising inventory in the maintenance phase. We offer our customers tailored product and service propositions that are essential for the successful operation of their businesses and help them save time and money.
RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2022 reported revenue of £2,554 million.
Minister Gwarube commits to stabilising the education system
Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube and her deputy, Dr Reginah Mhaule, have committed to take all necessary steps to stabilise the education system given the budgetary constraints affecting provinces.
The Minister said this while addressing the media on developments regarding budget cuts in the education sector, in Pretoria, on Wednesday.
“The Deputy Minister and I have been in constant engagement with provinces to support them during this challenging fiscal environment. We have committed ourselves to doing everything we can to stabilise the system and have appealed to provinces to retain the basket of posts, in order to not compromise education outcomes,” the Minister said.
She also moved to appreciate the work that the provinces have been doing around the clock to help the sector get to grips with these challenges.
“I have witnessed MECs work tirelessly with their provincial departments to protect teaching and learning in our schools.”
Challenges
The briefing comes weeks after several provincial Departments of Education have been vocal about the budgetary pressures they face.
These, said the Minister, have been years in the making due to the aggressive budget cuts, economic stagnation and fiscal mismanagement which is now set to impact schools.
“These budget pressures are not just numbers on a spreadsheet - they translate into fewer teachers, reduced textbooks, and fewer admin support staff, which means teachers spend more time on admin work, thereby reducing learning and teaching time. In essence, the very fabric of our children’s future is under threat.”
She explained that provinces like the Western Cape have seen the painful decision to reduce the basket of teaching posts for 2025, a move that may result in fewer educators in classrooms.
“This may mean larger class sizes, reduced individual attention for learners, and ultimately, a risk to the achievement of quality education outcomes.”
She added that unfortunately, other provinces throughout the country are in a similar position with many desperately working to find ways of avoiding having to top slice budgets for key services like textbooks, admin support and scholar transport programmes.
“We are faced with a pending national crisis, one that affects not just our learners but our teachers, principals, and broader communities.
“It is crucial to understand that this crisis is not confined to one province or one aspect of the education sector. Every province is grappling with these painful choices.”
Provincial education departments will in the next two to three years, find it increasingly difficult to fund their existing basket of posts and existing programmes within the available budget, unless measures are taken proactively to mitigate this risk.
For instance, she said in the 2025/26 financial year, four provincial departments will battle to cover their budgets; in the 2026/27 financial year, five provinces will battle to cover their budgets. In the 2027/28 financial year, seven provinces will not be able to afford their budgets.
“Several provinces have preserved the same post basket for the past three academic years, despite learner numbers increasing, while other provinces have decreased their posts in the past three years. It is important to note that these have been cuts in posts but not warm bodies.
“Meaning that no person gets retrenched but rather vacancies are not filled,” she said.
Increase in learner numbers
Nationally, the Minister highlighted that the number of learners within the education system has increased by approximately 292,820 over the last five years.
Learner/Educator Ratios have also steadily increased across most provinces.
She explained that an increase in learners' numbers without increasing the post basket, may affect the quality of teaching which may soon be reflected in the performance of the system.
Largely, she added that the financial constraints have had the largest impact on educator provisioning, leading to a steady increase in Learner/Educator Ratios in most provincial education departments.
“Most provincial Education Departments require between R350 million and R3.8 billion [over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework to fully fund their respective basket of posts].
“The numbers are staggering. If we continue down this path, projections indicate that most provincial education departments will not be able to maintain their respective basket of posts,” she said.
Interventions
In response to this potential crisis, Minister Gwarube said she convened two special meetings of the Council of Education Ministers (CEM). These meetings brought together education MECs from across the country and they conducted a thorough analysis of the budget challenges in each province.
MECs from each province have compiled provisional provincial reports with sobering results.
“For the first time in a decade, we now have a clearer picture of where the most significant budget pressures lie and how we need to engage treasury in a bid to address the challenges we see.
“As a result, I have requested an urgent meeting with the Minister of Finance to discuss the matter further. I am grateful to Minister [Enoch] Godongwana for his cooperation and support on this important matter.
“We are also appreciative of Treasury’s willingness to engage with the Education sector. Ultimately a solution must be found in order for us to protect front line services,” the Minister said.
Gwarube has also requested a convening of a political 10X10 meeting between the Minister of Finance and the provincial MECs for Finance, as well as herself and the nine MECs of Education.
“We must work together with all 10 treasuries to unlock additional funds to alleviate the pressures facing the education sector, even if it is for the short term, and to prevent further cuts to teaching posts and critical support services like school nutrition and transport.
“We also need to look at cross-departmental reprioritisation of budgets from departments that have under-performing programmes – ensuring that funding across government is directed to appropriate national priorities,” she said.
The Minister concluded that while the sector faces significant challenges, “these are not insurmountable. But they require decisive action and an unwavering commitment to putting education first.”
Earlier this month, the Department of Basic Education said that the Minister had held meetings with various international partners to reinforce South Africa's commitment to enhancing the education sector through global collaboration.
READ | Minister Gwarube in talks to enhance education sector
– SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 11:51
When it comes to ultra-high refresh rates and an immersive OLED gaming experience, one product stands out. Imagine you’re locked in an intense battle royale. You’ve managed to outlast 99 other players and find yourself in a tense one-on-one standoff. You spot your opponent through a doorway, but by the time your eyes can register …
DPWI Minister briefed on department's performance
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson today met with the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) for a briefing on the department's performance for the 2022/2023 year, which saw systemic failures in meeting its targets on delivery and financial management.
The Minister and the AGSA have committed to working together to assist the department to improve its performance and auditing processes.
This forms part of the measures the Minister has committed to implementing to improve audit outcomes within the department following the results reported last week by the AG.
This will ensure that public money is spent on the intended outcomes and corruption is met with consequence management.
“... It is important that drastic action is taken to quickly improve oversight, accounting and reporting within the department.
“The findings that irregular expenditure jumped from R98 million in 2020/21 to R521 million in 2022/23 is deeply concerning because it is public money that is being wasted.
“Working together with the AGSA will help increase the oversight within our branches to expose any malpractices, as well as help officials to improve their reporting to ensure that we can begin the journey to meeting our targets and audit outcomes within the shortest timeframe possible," the Minister said.
Macpherson said today’s meeting forms part of other actions he has taken to avoid the wastage of public money within the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, including removing the ability for officials to spend up to R20 million without accounting officer approval, and requesting a skills audit at the Senior Management Service (SMS) level to ensure the department has the necessary skills.
“The actions we are taking are part of our goal to lay a strong foundation at the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to ensure we deliver on our mandate to use public assets for public good and to turn South Africa into a construction site.
“It will not be an overnight journey to resolve these problems, but it is something I am committed and determined to do at all costs,” Macpherson said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 14:12
Nersa publishes Eskom’s revenue application for the next three financial years
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) on Monday published Eskom’s multi-year price determination (MYPD) revenue application up until 2028.
According to Eskom, the application covers the power utility’s financial period beginning on 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2028.
Eskom explained that it follows the MYPD methodology as prescribed by the regulatory authority.
“This methodology is now in its sixth application; hence the process is referred to as MYPD 6,” the statement read.
Nersa will decide on the revenue Eskom can receive following its analysis and the regulator conducting a series of public consultations.
Eskom believes that this application allows for an improvement in the financial sustainability of Eskom through the migration to cost-reflective prices and the successful operation of Generation, Transmission and Distribution in Eskom.
“Further migration towards cost reflectivity to cover the full cost of capital would be considered in subsequent applications. This would minimise the impact on the taxpayers.”
In accordance with its revenue decision, Eskom said Nersa will then make tariff decisions for implementation from 1 April 2025.
As per Eskom, it can only implement tariff decisions made by Nersa.
“We are entering the next phase of the regulatory process where Nersa will conduct an extensive public consultation about Eskom’s revenue application and we urge as many stakeholders as possible to become involved so Nersa can determine a key component in the funding of a constant electricity supply that drives economic growth and our quality of life for years to come,” said Chief Financial Officer of Eskom, Calib Cassim.
Cassim stated that as Nersa makes its decision, it will consider affordability for identified vulnerable sectors including indigent customers and certain industrial sectors.
“Eskom has made its revenue application based on the costs it will incur to efficiently provide electricity to the customer and it is a critical component in ensuring Eskom continues to provide reliable electricity services while improving its financial sustainability, through a migration to cost-reflective prices,” he added.
The utility said it was applying for total revenues of R446 billion for the 2026 financial year, R495 billion for 2027 and R537 billion for 2028.
This translates to the proposed average price increases for Eskom direct customers are 36.15% (1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026), 11.81% (1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027) and 9.10% (1 April 2027 to 31 March 2028).
In addition to the MYPD 6 application, Eskom submitted a retail tariff plan (RTP) to Nersa outlining proposed structural changes, which are expected to be implemented from 1 April 2025 once all Nersa approval and governance processes are concluded.
“The RTP aims to introduce cost-representative pricing that supports the long-term sustainability of all participants in the electricity supply industry.”
Nersa will consult with stakeholders on Eskom’s revenue application, as part of its decision-making process.
Eskom is required to submit to the regulator the revenue it requires for Nersa to make its determination. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 11:57
Imagine you’re a bird. It’s a hot day and you’re sitting on a rock. The temperature in your little body is soaring. So to cool down, a lot like a dog, you begin panting (yes, birds pant). Trouble is, when you do this you lose water, which might be hard to come by. How about …
Minister welcomes initiative to support investment in water sector
Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina has welcomed an initiative by Just Water Partnerships (JWPs), which supports investments in water resilience and sustainability in low- and middle-income countries.
While participating in a panel discussion at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States of America, the Minister said there is a need for partnerships in the water sector to ensure that people have access to clean and fresh water.
“As the government of South Africa, we support a growing cohort of partners who are interested in developing the concept of Just Water Partnerships.
"We also believe that carefully and collaboratively structured JPWs can protect existing water resources and will leave no one behind regarding the provision of water and sanitation services, and ensure that water supplies are managed sustainably,” Majodina said on Wednesday.
The JWPs concept was formulated following a report by the Global Commission for the Economics of Water (GCEW), which highlighted that traditional economics have failed the water sector, and that a new approach to the economics and governance of water should be taken to achieve a more sustainable, just and prosperous future for all.
JWPs are thus conceived as platforms that facilitate financial and governance actors (multilateral development banks, regional development banks, development finance institutions, national governments, city and local authorities, and public development banks) to support investments on their own balance sheets, as well as to catalyse greater private finance.
The Minister said the JPW concept mirrors the Department of Water and Sanitation’s commitment to build public-private partnerships to make clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene normal for everyone in the country.
This is in line with achieving Sustainable Development Goals 6.1 and 6.2, which aim to achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all and ensuring access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all, and end open defecation.
“Therefore, this confirms a need for such a platform to not only ensure that investments are used efficiently and transparently, but also in a way that prioritises women, girls and others facing marginalisation globally,” Majodina said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 12:06
Think all athletes run or swim? Think again! In esports, athletes battle it out from the comfort of a chair! But don’t be fooled—esports demands serious stamina, razor-sharp reflexes, and unmatched focus. Hyprop MTN Shift Gaming Experience offers essential tips to help gamers optimise their nutrition for better performance and overall health. Whether you’re a …
A promise kept for 45 years When a promise is as important as the people you make it to, you keep it. One of South Africa’s most trusted brands, Shoprite, this week set out to remind customers it continues to stand firm on a PROMISE originally made 45 years ago – when the supermarket chain …
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, explores five essential tips to help you choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your specific needs, ensuring you’re giving your smile the best care possible. “As we celebrate National Oral Health Month, it’s the perfect time to focus on the foundation of good dental hygiene: …
'We will not remain silent as apartheid is perpetrated against others' – President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that South Africa will not remain silent and watch as apartheid is perpetrated against others.
In his address to the Assembly's annual high-level debate on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa said the South African story bears witness to the enduring role of the United Nations in global affairs.
In supporting South Africa’s struggle for liberation, the President highlighted that the UN affirmed the principles of the UN Charter – fundamental human rights, the dignity and worth of every person, and the equal rights of nations large and small.
“It affirmed the aspiration contained in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that we should strive for a world free of barbarous acts that outrage the conscience of mankind.
“We South Africans know what apartheid looks like. We lived through it. We suffered and died under it. We will not remain silent and watch as apartheid is perpetrated against others. Through the United Nations and the instruments it wields, we must end this suffering,” the President said.
He further reiterated South Africa’s call for an immediate cease fire, and for the release of all hostages.
He highlighted that the violence the Palestinian people are being subjected to is a grim continuation of more than half a century of apartheid.
“The only lasting solution is the establishment of a Palestinian State, existing side by side with Israel with East Jerusalem as its capital,” he said.
Earlier this month, The Presidency announced that South Africa is set to submit its Memorial to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in October 2024, presenting evidence to support its claim that Israel is committing genocide in Palestine.
The Memorial will outline facts and arguments as part of a broader legal effort to hold Israel accountable under international law.
READ | SA to file Memorial to the ICJ on Israel matter
Addressing the conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Sudan, Yemen, Ukraine, and the Sahel region, the President highlighted the country's role in supporting international efforts for conflict resolution.
“Our moral conscience further demands that we exert every effort to bring peace to the Democratic Republic of Congo, to Sudan, to Yemen, to Ukraine and to the troubled Sahel region. We must realise the aspirations of the people of Western Sahara to self-determination.”
He emphasised that achieving and maintaining peace and security requires the collective will of the community of nations.
Reform of the UN Security Council
“It requires that the UN Security Council is representative and inclusive. Seventy-eight years since its formation, the structure of the UN Security Council remains largely unchanged.
“Africa and its 1,4 billion people remain excluded from its key decision-making structures. The Security Council has not fulfilled its mandate to maintain international peace and security,” he said.
The President called for the UN Security Council to be reformed as a matter of urgency and become more inclusive so that the voices of all nations are heard and considered.
“Africa stands ready to play its part in building a safer global order. The African Union and its member states are engaged in mediation, dialogue, and diplomacy across the continent, to create conditions under which peace and development can take hold.
“There must be greater collaboration between the AU [African Union] and the UN towards resolving these conflicts, and also in addressing their root causes,” he said.
President Ramaphosa is leading South Africa’s delegation to the High-Level General Debate of the 79th Session of the General Assembly (UNGA79) in the United States of America.
The High-Level General Debate of the UNGA79 is taking place at the United Nations headquarters in New York, from 24 to 30 September 2024.
Speaking at the African Minerals Forum hosted by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) and Prosper Africa on Monday, the President emphasised the importance of the critical minerals sector in driving global economic growth and sustainability.
By leveraging key sectors such as mining, energy, and manufacturing, the President said South Africa is set to improve its business environment and attract much-needed investment.
The President addressed the session on the sidelines of the UNGA.
READ | Critical minerals sector key to driving global economic growth
-SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 09:55
Informa Tech, organisers of the 27th annual Africa Tech Festival (www.AfricaTechFestival.com) 2024, are pleased to announce that the South African Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) will be an official partner of this year's event, taking place from 12 to 14 November in Cape Town.
Incorporating AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite, and The AI Summit Cape Town, Africa Tech Festival 2024 will welcome 15,000 visitors, over 400 speakers, and more than 300 exhibitors. Topics include enterprise tech innovation and disruption across key sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud and data centres, and green ICT.
“Africa Tech Festival is the largest and most influential telecoms and technology event in Africa, with an audience that spans the entire ICT ecosystem, including trade and other ministries. The partnership with the DCDT is a clear indication of the South African government's commitment to engaging with these key stakeholders from across the continent, opening dialogue, sharing insights, and working together to advance Africa's digital transformation journey,” said Informa's James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival.
One of the highlights of the partnership is the AfricaCom 2024 Ministerial Summit, a closed-door VIP event bringing together close to a dozen African and international ministers from across critical sectors such as ICT, innovation, trade, finance, education, and enterprise. The Ministerial Summit will provide government leaders with a platform that facilitates discussion, collaboration, and sharing of learnings on how progressive policy is nurturing tech ecosystems, building efficient workforces, unlocking technological innovation across public and enterprise sectors, and driving Africa's socioeconomic development.
Another initiative that forms part of the partnership is an exclusive government pavilion at which a small group of top South African businesses, SMEs, and startups will be hosted, again reflecting top-tier support for businesses that are contributing to the country's technology-driven agenda.
“The importance of collaborative efforts and partnerships in realising our goal of a connected and digitally transformed society cannot be overemphasised. The Africa Tech Festival presents such platform for different innovative minds to come together to explore and exchange tech solutions for Africa and the rest of the world. This global platform will not only afford us an opportunity to learn best practices but also afford our SMEs to market their innovative solutions to the more than 15 000 visitors from across the globe. We are committed to ensuring that Africa does not become a mere consumer of digital solutions developed elsewhere but a meaningful participant in the digital economy by being a supplier of solutions and infrastructure that are tried and tested in our shores. We are looking forward to welcoming the world to our shores.” said Ms Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani, Director-General of the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.
The introduction of the Ministerial Summit, along with the official endorsement of the event by the DCDT, add significantly to the depth of Africa Tech Festival. In addition to showcasing the immensely innovative nature of the industry, the event is also a targeted networking platform for tech leaders, role-players, and investors to make a positive contribution to Africa's successful navigation of a tech-driven future.
Confirmed Africa Tech Festival 2024 speakers include:
Register now to secure your spot and join us in shaping the future of technology in Africa: https://AfricaTechFestival.com/
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival.
About Africa Tech Festival:
Africa Tech Festival, including anchor events AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite, and The AI Summit Cape Town is part of the Informa Tech Connecting Africa event series.
A vibrant celebration of Africa's diverse community of tech champions, Africa Tech Festival is the largest tech and digital connectivity conference and exhibition in Africa, attracting hundreds of exhibitors, more than 400 speakers and more than 15,000 delegates.
Makro has positioned itself as the bulk shopping destination in its meat category for several years, appealing to both household shoppers and small business customers alike, due to the retailers’ focus on negotiating directly with the producers and locking in favourable bulk rates that enable it to maintain affordability. “As these customers prepare for Heritage …
Reclaiming State property
Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala will today undertake Operation Bring Back (OBB), which aims to oversee the implementation of eviction orders in State-owned properties around Mthatha in the Eastern Cape.
Zikalala will be accompanied by the Eastern Cape Public Works and Infrastructure MEC, Siphokazi Lusithi.
The action is part of the Eastern Cape and nation-wide Government plan to reclaim unlawfully occupied state properties.
Operation Bring Back is an initiative of the national Department of Public Works (DPW), which aims to recover land and other properties, including farms that were illegally occupied or stolen from the State prior to and immediately after the 1994 democratic transition.
In terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, No 108 of 1996, all State owned national and provincial immovable assets must be vested in the name of the national government or in the name of the nine provinces. The national government is therefore the custodian of all national government immovable assets.
In April 2011, the National Department of Public Works started the OBB programme, which was largely dependent on the public coming forward to report cases of misappropriation through a call centre that was launched during a public communication campaign at the time. This OBB programme ceased to function in October 2011 and no cases were investigated.
Following the evictions under today's programme, an oversight visit will be carried out at the construction site of the Mqanduli Office Precinct in Mqanduli.
In the Eastern Cape, there are 82 properties that are currently going through legal channels, including 57 eviction orders.
Of these, 21 have been evaluated and are recommended for execution, with a target of completing 36 evictions by the end of the 2024/2025 financial year.
All eviction actions will strictly adhere to legal standards and respect tenant rights.
The Mqanduli Office Precinct is designed to enhance local government services and stimulate economic growth in the area.
This modern facility aims to improve accessibility for residents and provide a collaborative space for various government departments. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 10:13
Sungrow, a global leader in photovoltaic (PV) inverters and energy storage systems, proudly announces that it has been honoured with the prestigious 2024 Red Dot Design Award, often referred to as the Oscars of the design world. This accolade is awarded to Sungrow’s intelligent energy management platform, iSolarCloud. The innovative app empowers South African homeowners …