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Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting South African men (CANSA), with death rates soaring 51,5% from 2008 to 2018, and a lifetime risk of 1 in 15. White males have the highest incidence rates, but coloured and black African men suffer the highest mortality, underscoring disparities in detection and treatment. PSA tests are …
Choosing the right chair for different events, gatherings, and venues can significantly impact the comfort and overall experience of guests. Whether you’re planning a wedding, hosting a party, or organising a conference, having the correct seating arrangements is essential. In this article, we’ll look into a range of chair options, including plastic chairs, party chairs, …
Forklifts are essential in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, warehousing, and construction. They are used for moving heavy materials over short distances and play a crucial role in improving operational efficiency. Whether you’re looking for a forklift for short-term use or a long-term investment, there are several options to consider, including rentals, sales, …
A water secure Africa in the spotlight at UN General Assembly
Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, and a delegation of water sector stakeholders will attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, USA from 24 to 26 September 2024.
The Minister will join other global leaders in interrogating and mobilising commitments for a water-secure Africa.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is attending the UN General Debate and High-Level Week (UNGA79) in New York from 21-24 September 2024.
This annual gathering of world leaders is the most important event on the UN calendar, with Heads of State and Government and Heads of International Organisations discussing global challenges and how to address these challenges in the best interest of humanity.
Majodina is expected to participate in panel discussions to review the progress in mobilising investments for the AU High Level Panel Investment Action Plan and outline a road map towards the coming AU Africa Water Investment Summit and UN Water Conference in 2026, with South Africa leading the G20 Presidency next year.
As part of the AU High-Level Panel, Majodina said South Africa will participate in discussions and the review of previous UN recommendations on how to accelerate progress to achieve access and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, as well as the achievement of other multiple SDGs.
“The deliberations will focus on understanding, valuing, and managing water to provide a foundation for broader integrated water management and building partnerships and international collaboration at the global level,” Majodina said.
The Minister is also expected to participate in panel discussions on Climate Change and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), to explore wider methods and opportunities to advance their agendas.
READ | President Ramaphosa in New York for UN General Assembly
President Ramaphosa is expected to address the General Assembly on the opening day, Tuesday, 24 September 2024.
This year, the African Group presides over the General Assembly, with Philemon Yang, former Prime Minister of Cameroon, elected as President of the 79th Session.
The theme identified by the President of UNGA79 is: "Unity in diversity, for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for everyone everywhere.”
Among the issues on which President Ramaphosa will focus on during his engagements in New York include the necessity for the maintenance of international peace and security; the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda; climate change and the upcoming COP29 in Baku; financing for development, and health and pandemic preparedness. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 14:05
Temps to start recovering in the next few days, says weather service
While warmer weather is expected throughout most of South Africa in the coming days, the south western parts of the country can expect a cold front on Wednesday.
This after the weekend’s freezing temperatures and snowfall in some parts of the country caused havoc on the roads, causing one fatality.
Forecaster at the South African Weather Service (SAWS) Samkelisiwe Thwala said on Monday rain showers are expected this afternoon over the central and western parts of the Western Cape, spreading to other areas this evening.
“Tomorrow will be mostly partly cloudy for most of the country in the morning. This will clear from the west throughout the day,” Thwala told SAnews.
She said the weather service expected isolated showers in the extreme parts of the Eastern Cape, Western Cape and Northern Cape. This will move into the Eastern Cape and Free State and southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
Temperatures will start recovering in the next couple of days. “We are expecting temperatures to be warm in most parts of the country, but still relatively cool over Gauteng and Mpumalanga.”
On Wednesday, however, a cold front will be approaching from the west and showers are expected in the south western parts of South Africa, spreading along the south coast.
Meanwhile, all roads affected by the recent snowstorm, including the N3 Toll Route, were reopened to traffic last night. These include key routes in Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape.
“The extensive backlog of traffic between KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State has been cleared. Motorists are advised to resume their travels on Monday, 23 September 2024.
“Although the roads are cleared, road users are urged to drive cautiously as some roads remain slippery, and weather conditions limit visibility.
“Government thanks all citizens, emergency services, government entities, humanitarian organisations, and stakeholders for their support during this time,” said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) on Sunday night.
READ | Tips for safer driving on icy roads
Regrettably, a 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. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 17:11
Homecoming ceremony for former liberation fighters
Government will receive the remains of 49 former liberation fighters who passed away in exile in Zimbabwe and Zambia this week.
The remains are set to arrive at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria on 25 September 2024.
“Following their arrival, the government will host an official homecoming ceremony on the 27th of September 2024 at Freedom Park, also in Pretoria, to mark the return of these liberation fighters to the country of their birth.
“Thereafter, reburial ceremonies will be held in the provinces of their origin, ensuring they are laid to rest with the dignity and respect they deserve,” said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) in a statement on Monday.
The Exile Repatriation Program is guided by the National Policy of Repatriation and Restitution of Human Remains and Heritage Objects of 2021. This policy was adopted as part of South Africa's broader commitment to ensuring that former liberation fighters who died in exile are returned home and buried with dignity.
The repatriation process is being conducted in close collaboration with regional governments, historical experts, and local communities to guarantee a respectful and well-coordinated return.
The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA), through its legislative framework, the National Heritage Resources Act No 25 of 1999, (NHRA) protects and manage all sites associated South Africa’s rich liberation struggle and anti-colonial resistance history.
According to GCIS, SAHRA’s Heritage Protection Unit receives submissions from all provinces, for serial nomination of sites for declaration as National Heritage Sites.
“The selected sites are then graded and accorded a local, provincial and national status due a unique cultural and historical significance that bear footprints and pay homage to individuals, communities, events and places that collectively shaped the country ‘s struggle for freedom.
“This heritage fosters unity across society and must be preserved and celebrated for future generations.
“This initiative underscores South Africa's continued dedication to recognizing the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle,” the statement said.
In the past, repatriations were conducted on an ad-hoc basis and on individual basis, usually at the request of families to local authorities and provincial governments.
However, said the GCIS, since the government has adopted an inclusive country-to-country repatriation model, which will be formally launched during the homecoming ceremony. This model aims to accelerate the repatriation process, beginning with countries that have high numbers of liberation fighter remains – Zimbabwe and Zambia.
As South Africa commemorates 30 years of freedom and democracy, the government, led by the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton Mackenzie will receive the remains at Waterkloof Airforce Base between 16:00 and 18:00.
The homecoming ceremony will start at 10h00 on 27 September 2024.
“South Africa remains forever indebted to the heroes of its liberation struggle, and this initiative represents a significant milestone in honoring their legacy and contribution to the 30 years of freedom and democracy milestone,” said GCIS. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 14:56
The highly anticipated RMB Universities Boat Race 2024 came to a thrilling close on the Kowie River, marking another successful year of this premier rowing event. From the 12th to the 14th of September, South Africa’s top university rowing teams battled it out in a series of intense head-to-head races, showcasing exceptional talent, teamwork, and …
Parts On Call Expands: Now Offering Premium Nissan Parts Across South Africa At Parts On Call, we’re thrilled to share the news that we’ve expanded our product range to now include a full selection of premium, pre-owned Nissan parts. As one of the leading suppliers of used automotive parts in South Africa, our commitment to …
President calls on all stakeholders to help preserve SA's heritage
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on business and other stakeholders to work with government to protect and conserve historical, cultural and natural heritage sites, particularly in marginalised communities.
President Ramaphosa made the call in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday, ahead of the Heritage Day celebrations.
South Africa will on Tuesday observe Heritage Day, where citizens will celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that makes up the nation.
President Ramaphosa noted that while heritage preservation is a responsibility of government, the private sector, corporate sponsors, philanthropists, heritage organisations and other stakeholders also have an important role to play in ensuring these legacies are safeguarded for future generations.
“Private sector support for heritage preservation is uneven. While some high-profile heritage sites like Robben Island, the Mandela House in Soweto, Constitution Hill, and others receive donor funding, other less prominent institutions, events, and initiatives struggle to obtain support.
“As a result, many important sites of memory have fallen into disrepair. This is a wasted opportunity, because a number of these sites could stimulate local economies and provide work opportunities to the communities in which they are situated,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President said protecting and conserving historical, cultural, and natural heritage sites was also vitally important for nation-building and national reconciliation.
“On this Heritage Day, I call on business and other stakeholders to work with government in the cause of heritage preservation, particularly in marginalised communities. There is already laudable work being done in this regard.
“By working together as government, business, and society, we can use our national heritage to uplift communities, create opportunities and make us all proud to be South African,” the President said.
Highlighting the significance of Heritage Day, President Ramaphosa noted that having emerged from a painful apartheid past where indigenous customs, traditions and languages were denigrated and marginalised, Heritage Day is one of the most important events on the national calendar.
“It is a valuable opportunity for cross-cultural exchange and for building bridges of tolerance and understanding between races and different ethnic groups. I have always found it heartwarming to see how South Africans from all walks of life celebrate Heritage Day in their communities, schools, workplaces, places of worship and institutions of higher learning.
“It has become a regular facet of Heritage Day to see South Africans share their traditions, cuisine, dress, music, and other forms of cultural expression with their compatriots. Beyond the benefits for cultural self-expression, pride and nation-building, heritage preservation is an important driver of economic growth, job creation and sustainable development,” President Ramaphosa said.
South Africa is perfectly placed to use its rich cultural and natural heritage to promote economic growth.
“As one of the world’s most mega biodiverse countries, South Africa’s natural heritage attracts tourists from around the world, supporting local job creation and investment in natural resource infrastructure. By way of example, in December 2023 alone, there were more than 400 000 visitors to sites like the Table Mountain National Park and Robben Island,” the President highlighted.
Coupled with this, he said, South Africa has an abundance of historical sites across the country that span the pre-colonial, colonial, apartheid, and democratic eras.
“These sites are not just important for tourism. They are also sites of memory and monuments to the past that serve to educate the younger generation of South Africans,” President Ramaphosa said.
To preserve the country’s rich heritage, the President underscored a need to do more to attract young South Africans to careers and opportunities in the sector.
He said through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Heritage Council and National Arts Council has provided unemployed young people with work opportunities in film and digital media production, cultural project management, storytelling, language preservation and as museum guides.
Government will commemorate Heritage Day at Meqheleng Stadium in Ficksburg, in the Free State, under the theme: “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”.
This year’s theme puts a spotlight on South Africa’s liberation movements who received various forms of solidarity and support from neighbouring countries during the liberation struggle. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 15:00
Johannesburg – 21 September 2024 – A select cohort of 18 leaders across the corporate, public, development and nonprofit sectors have completed their inaugural retreat as Siyavela Impact Program Ambassadors for 2024. The Siyavela Impact Program is a response to the challenges CSI, NPO and project leaders expressed in research conducted by the Siyavela Impact …
Call to celebrate Heritage Day responsibly
With the country commemorating Heritage Day tomorrow, Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP) has called on citizens to practice responsible behaviour as they celebrate the public holiday.
“As we come together to celebrate our cultures, traditions, and diversity on Heritage Day, it is important to do so responsibly,” GTP spokesperson, Sello Maremane, said on Monday.
During Heritage Month in September, South Africa celebrates the nation’s diverse culture and rich heritage.
This year’s national Heritage Day on 24 September will be commemorated at Meqheleng Stadium in Ficksburg, in the Free State, under the theme: “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”.
According to a Department of Sport, Arts and Culture statement earlier this month, this year’s theme puts a spotlight on South Africa’s liberation movements who received various forms of solidarity and support from neighbouring countries during the liberation struggle.
The GTP urged citizens to celebrate with caution.
“We encourage all citizens to do so responsibly and avoid taking part in unlawful activities such as public drinking, reckless and negligent driving, amongst other things,” said Maremane, adding that the Gauteng Traffic Police, together with the Gauteng Traffic Wardens and other law enforcement agencies will be on high alert to ensure safety on the road and in communities.
“We will continue to conduct law enforcement operations to address crime and lawlessness. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious incidents to their nearest police station or contact the Gauteng hotline on 0800 22 88 27/ hotline@gauteng.gov.za,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 15:09
Seal Point, Cape St Francis – small but contestable waves were the order of the day for the second day of the Rip Curl GromSearch Seal Point presented by Sea Harvest and The Kouga Municipality. This contest, the fifth and final event in the five-part series, will decide the series winners and award the two …
African leaders meet on Mpox
President Cyril Ramaphosa says as the continent tackles Mpox, Africa needs to learn from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We need to ensure equitable distribution of medical countermeasures based on transparent criteria and readiness to initiate vaccination. We ask Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) to lead the consultation with member states to ensure equitable distribution of vaccines and other medical countermeasures,” said the President.
He was delivering South Africa’s statement at the African Union Heads of State virtual meeting on Mpox on Sunday.
“We need a finance plan that is evidence-based, with sound forecasting of needs. The Africa CDC mandate on data sharing is the bedrock of global health security. This will help to ensure that public health threats are detected and shared across borders and with other continental and global stakeholders,” said the President.
He said countries would only be able to effectively mobilise and direct funds if supported by reliable data.
“We call on all African countries to make use of this instrumental system that has been created by our own institution. We call for the urgent operationalisation of the Africa Epidemic Fund as the primary vehicle for epidemic response financial management.”
He said as with COVID-19, Africa is still struggling to get the Mpox vaccine and treatment.
The President said the continent needs to manufacture Mpox vaccines in Africa to reduce costs and improve access.
“We must co-develop these medical countermeasures, share intellectual property and ensure technology transfer. In this regard, we welcome the agreement between Africa CDC and Bavarian Nordic to transfer the Mpox vaccine technology to African manufacturers,” he said.
With the financial support from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness, the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator, Afreximbank, the European Union and other partners, President Ramaphosa said the continent should be able to start vaccine manufacturing by 2025.
“In the meantime, we appreciate the support from a number of countries to get vaccines in Africa.
“The COVID-19 experience taught us that we need predictable demand and off-take guarantees for the vaccines, medicines and diagnostics manufactured in Africa. African countries should therefore buy vaccines and other health products manufactured in Africa to ensure sustainable manufacturing on our continent.”
He said this could be achieved through the African Pooled Procurement Mechanism.
Surveillance systems must be enhanced and healthcare delivery and infrastructure strengthened.
“We must ensure that frontline health workers have the necessary diagnostic tools, vaccines and antiviral treatments. We need tested public health messages that promote awareness and prevention.
“Beyond the targeted vaccination responses to outbreaks, we should explore the feasibility of continuing vaccinations in high-risk populations. This dual approach will help create a buffer against future outbreaks and protect our most vulnerable communities,” he said.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
The President commended the fact that Africa CDC had partnered with the WHO, UNICEF and other partners to develop the Mpox continental preparedness and response plan and to build, for the first time in Africa, one Continental Incident Management Team.
The total number of positive cases recorded in South Africa since the outbreak in May this year stands at 25 cases, including three deaths. Twelve of these were reported in Gauteng, 11 reported in KwaZulu-Natal and two in the Western Cape.
Africa CDC has signed a partnership agreement with the European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) and Bavarian Nordic to provide over 215 000 doses of the MVA-BN vaccine.
Africa CDC will oversee the equitable distribution of these vaccines, prioritising local needs across the affected member states. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 11:17
Chikunga hopeful of Women’s Forum recognition
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, says she is confident that the BRICS Women’s Forum will be recognised at this year’s Kazan Summit Declaration, scheduled to take place next month.
Chikunga made the remark as Russia prepares to host the BRICS Summit to be held in Kazan, from 22 to 24 October, after the country assumes the BRICS chairmanship in 2024.
This as the Minister led the discussions at the BRICS Women Affairs meeting held in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
READ | Chikunga arrives in Russia for BRICS Women Affairs Meeting
The meeting saw BRICS Member States discussing cooperation prospects in the fields of women’s leadership and enhancing the role of women in finance, agriculture, innovation, healthcare, creative industries, tourism, environmental safety, and the inclusive economy.
Speaking at the BRICS Women's Forum, which included the BRICS Ministerial Women’s Affairs Meeting on Friday, Chikunga congratulated the Russian Federation on assuming the Chairship of BRICS 2024, and the sterling work that it has undertaken to date.
“As you are aware, this forum of Ministers was first initiated in 2023 during South Africa's Chairship of BRICS. It is indeed encouraging to witness its growth under the stewardship of the Russian Federation's 2024 Chairship, and it will undoubtedly flourish under the future Chairship of fellow BRICS member states.
“We applaud Russia's choice of the theme 'Women, Governance, and Leadership' as a timely intervention that ensures this forum continues to amplify the voices, interests, and full representation of women across BRICS member states, promoting their meaningful participation at all levels of governance and decision-making.”
Chikunga also reflected on some of the key points that emerged during hybrid BRICS Ministers for Women Affairs held in December 2023, where the forum was recognised as a fundamental platform to elevate equality, women’s rights, economic autonomy, and empowerment; and to address major concerns related to women across the BRICS countries.
The forum also promotes mainstreaming of women’s issues across BRICS’ processes, priority areas, declarations and agreements; and provides a platform for the exchange of knowledge and best practices in advancing the current and future wellbeing of women and girls across BRICS.
“Our meeting recognised the tremendous progress that successive BRICS summits have produced in the areas of global governance, development, peace and security, energy, climate change, and social issues. We noted, however, that discussions in these areas would be further enriched by a ministerial meeting dedicated to women affairs.
“There was consensus on the potential of this forum to accelerate the implementation of existing commitments, principles, goals, and actions outlined in various international instruments on women. These include the Beijing Platform for Action (1995), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW - 1979), UN Resolution 1325 (2000) on Women, Peace, and Security, as well as the UN [United Nations] Agenda 2030 and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Chikunga explained.
The meeting further agreed to support the acceleration of the implementation of the African Union Agenda 2063, with a particular focus on Aspiration 6, which promotes women's empowerment.
Asserting women’s interests
The Ministers also highlighted the need to assert women’s interests across the broader BRICS agenda, strengthen multilateralism, and synergise with the work of the BRICS Business Women’s Alliance to accelerate the mainstreaming of socio-economic priorities for greater inclusivity and equity.
“We acknowledge that this goal will be further enriched when we leverage our collective strength as the Global South, alongside robust people-to-people exchanges and cooperation within BRICS nations and across the African continent.
“A key highlight of the Johannesburg II Declaration was the recognition of the vital role of women and youth in trade and their potential to act as catalysts for industrialisation, infrastructure development, food security, agricultural modernization, sustainable growth, healthcare, and addressing climate change,” she said.
The Johannesburg II Declaration is a document that encapsulates significant BRICS viewpoints on matters of global economic, financial and political significance.
READ | BRICS adopts Johannesburg II Declaration
– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 13:42
It’s Heritage Month and in celebration of South Africa’s rich diversity of cultures and traditions, First Loyalty Plus – SA’s premier All-Round Rewards Programme – has created a fun quiz, designed to help you uncover your perfect South African heritage experience. “South Africa is a multi-faceted land with a storied past,” says Samantha Pillay, Director …
Alleged Namibian drug mule arrested with over 60 ingested cocaine bullets
A 30-year-old female Namibian drug mule was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday.
The South African Police Services (SAPS), South African Revenue Service (SARS) customs and immigration officials received intelligence from SAPS regarding a drug mule that would land from Sau Paulo at about 07:25.
“The team immediately intercepted the drug mule as she was making her way through immigration. She was immediately arrested, taken to a local hospital where a medical x-ray confirmed and detected foreign objects in her stomach,” said the police in a statement.
According to police the process to release the suspected drugs from her body is underway.
“She has already released more than 60 bullets of suspected cocaine thus far. She is currently under police guard and custody.
“The value of the drugs cannot be determined at this stage as the process to release all suspected drugs from the suspect’s body may take some time,” said the statement.
This is the tenth drug mule to be arrested at this airport in the past two months.
National Commissioner of the Police, General Fannie Masemola, applauded the vigilance of the multidisciplinary team who are working tirelessly to clamp down on criminality at the airport.
“Our men and women in blue are hard at work intercepting hardened criminals. South Africa is not a playground for criminals and transnational organised crime. We are squeezing the space for criminals and leaving nothing to chance,” said Masemola. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 11:44
HEINEKEN Beverages promoted diversity and inclusivity by gathering a range of stakeholders over a meal, a drink and authentic conversation as part of global social impact initiative called Worlds Together. “We invited South African Special Olympics and SANASA (South African National Association for Special Education), bringing them together to help bridge the gap between organisations …
Minister commends progress made in land claims matter
Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Mzwanele Nyhontso, has welcomed the latest developments in the case against a suspended official implicated in alleged financial irregularities within the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights (CRLR), regional Land Claims office in the Eastern Cape.
Nyhontso approved the immediate suspension of the officials who worked at the regional Land Claims office in the Eastern Cape, who were implicated in alleged financial irregularities.
Chief Land Claims Commissioner, Nomfundo Ntloko said the commission had been in full support of investigations by law enforcement agencies and remained committed to rooting out corruption related to the restitution of land rights process.
Nyhontso said the CRLR, where the official was based, had been cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service’s Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (Hawks), to ensure compliance with all necessary and relevant processes.
The official together with her alleged accomplices have been arrested and are expected to appear in the East London Magistrates court on Monday.
“Corruption within the department will not be tolerated, and tough action will be taken against any officials implicated,” Nyhontso warned. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 11:48
Checkers Little Shop is back by popular demand, and this time with its largest ever collection of 44 collectable miniatures to surprise and delight both young customers and adults alike. The new minis are made from 100% recycled plastic, and to make playtime Xtra special, some of them also offer fun new features, including glow-in-the-dark, …
Key Public Works and Infrastructure posts advertised to stabilise department
Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, has taken action to stabilise the administration and governance of the department by advertising key vacancies in the department for permanent appointment.
Over the weekend, vacancies were advertised for a number of positions, including the Head of Infrastructure, Supply Management Executive for the Property Management Trading Entity (PMTE), Chief Director for Human Resource Management, Deputy Director of Facilities Management, Deputy Director-General of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), Deputy Director-General of Policy Research and Regulation, and Chief Director for accounting and reporting.
“The filling of these key positions with permanent appointments is part of the actions we have been taking to bring stability and good governance to the department since my appointment more than two months ago.
“These positions play a critical role in the department's functioning,” Macpherson said in a statement on Monday.
He encouraged all South Africans, who have the necessary skills and expertise, to apply for the positions and “join us in the work we are doing to reform the department in order for us to build a better South Africa for all our people”.
“With the advertising of these positions, we are laying the foundation of a professional public service within the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure which has a diversity of skills and expertise to move us forward,” said the Minister.
Individuals who meet the requisite requirements have until 18 October 2024 to apply.
A copy of the advert and position requirements can be found at https://bit.ly/3ZzyoHn.
“The advertising of these positions forms part of the greater work we are doing to build a strong Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to deliver our vision of turning South Africa into a construction site. By working together we can ignite economic growth, create jobs and build a more prosperous South Africa,” said Macpherson. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 11:53
Heritage Day is fast approaching, and there’s no better way to celebrate South Africa’s diverse cultural tapestry than by visiting the Rosebank Art & Craft Market. Located at Rosebank Mall on Cradock Avenue, this market is a treasure trove rich in African heritage, offering a unique opportunity for locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves …
Crocworld Conservation Centre in Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast has announced a great special to celebrate Heritage Day on Tuesday, 24 September. Visitors are encouraged to come to the centre dressed in traditional attire for a 50% discount off the entry price. For adults that’s only R60pp, for children (aged 4 to 12) and …
Coastal communities in South Africa were represented in a lively two-day community workshop that sought to promote gender inclusivity in environmental management and the conservation of aquatic biodiversity. The workshop, which was co-hosted by AU-IBAR, Mabuyi Development Planners, and Blue Wild Coast NPO, aimed to provide a thorough Gender Plan of Action for NGOs engaged in small-scale fisheries.
Fifty people showed up at the event in East London, South Africa. Among them were ladies from the seaside towns of Hamburg and Port St. John's, as well as officials from the government, non-governmental organisations, the business sector, and foreign organisations. The workshop sought to incorporate gender-sensitive practices into environmental management, with a heavy emphasis on gender mainstreaming. This was especially important in small-scale fisheries, where women are crucial but under-represented.
Workshop Objectives and Background
After successfully recruiting a Technical Consultant to assist South African environmental NGOs, the Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation Project continued its earlier efforts with the workshop. Site visits, a gender assessment report, an MoU, and a Gender Plan of Action were all part of the consultant's remit to guarantee that women and disadvantaged communities would be a part of environmental sustainability initiatives.
Prior consultations verified the inception report, which laid the groundwork for this workshop. Recognising the importance of local women as guardians of aquatic biodiversity, we set out to understand the difficulties they encounter in small-scale fisheries and find strategies to support them. Workshop participants also had the opportunity to confirm the consultant's report's findings and work together to develop ways to increase gender inclusion in the sector.
Opening Session: Setting the Stage for Change
A panel of speakers stressed gender equality in small-scale fisheries and aquatic biodiversity management at the inaugural session.
At the outset of the session, Ms. Elethu Duna, Executive Director of Blue Wild Coast NPO, acknowledged the importance of women in small-scale fishing in South Africa and highlighted their lack of representation in decision-making bodies. She emphasized that addressing gender inequities offers potential for permanent change and expressed gratitude to AU-IBAR and partners for the session. Duna strongly encouraged participation in developing a substantial Gender Plan of Action.
Mr. Zamkhaya Maseti from the Premier's Office, Government of South Africa, recognized the need for additional action in rural communities while emphasizing the government's dedication to empowering women through policies. He highlighted the importance of women in fisheries, noting that they are sometimes overlooked, and described the session as a crucial step in addressing this disparity. "The time for talk is over," Maseti declared as his final rallying cry. Now is the moment to take action.
Ms. Thabisa Sigwela, representing the Buffalo City Maritime Cluster, emphasized the need for women's economic empowerment and advocated for organized investments in financial inclusion and capacity building. She pledged to support businesses run by women and stressed the importance of providing women in underserved coastal communities with easy access to economic opportunities.
Ms. Mashebane Thosago, from the African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network (AWFISHNET), highlighted the obstacles women in the fishing industry face, including a lack of education and financing. She spoke about how AWFISHNET is working to connect women across Africa and how this training can empower those involved in small-scale fishing to make a difference.
Ms. Fransciscar Mhuriro, representing AU-IBAR, reiterated the organization's commitment to gender equality, calling for women to be recognized as leaders in the fisheries industry. She stressed that AU-IBAR is responsible for promoting gender-responsive policies and enabling knowledge-sharing to ensure the Gender Plan of Action is a living tool for change.
Finally, Ms. Nozuko Ntsokota from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment (DFFE) discussed the need for practical application of existing gender policy. She highlighted the importance of collaboration to equip women with the knowledge and resources needed to thrive in small-scale fisheries and pledged continued support for initiatives that emerge from the session.
The workshop focused on gender issues in small-scale fisheries through technical sessions. The first session introduced the importance of integrating gender principles into fisheries management. Key presentations included the roles of men and women in small-scale fisheries, the marginalization of women, and the role of women in vulnerable coastal communities. The second session, moderated by Stephanie Achieng, discussed legislative frameworks, financial exclusion, tenure rights, and infrastructure challenges in small-scale fisheries. A draft gender plan of action was introduced, based on input from local fisherwomen.
Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Cooperatives
Ms. Thosago Mashebane of AWFISHNET and SANWFA highlighted the persistent challenges faced by women in fisheries cooperatives. Issues included unfriendly working environments, inadequate infrastructure, and limited financial inclusion. Despite the existence of cooperatives for over a decade, women continue to struggle with access to resources, funding, and tenure rights. Ms. Mashebane emphasized the need for improved legislative frameworks, increased capacity-building initiatives, and the creation of financial tools tailored to the needs of women in coastal communities.
Proposed Solutions and Commitments
Participants discussed potential solutions, such as the establishment of organized forums for women in cooperatives, improved sustainability of interventions, and stronger policy frameworks. The workshop also proposed the development of business models for women cooperatives, alongside measures to increase their representation in decision-making institutions at local and national levels. Notably, SANWFA committed to connecting women cooperatives from the Eastern Cape with buyers in the Western Cape, fostering new economic opportunities.
Key Workshop Outcomes
Key conclusions from the event will guide future efforts and the Gender Plan of Action. As a means of identifying and addressing critical obstacles, participants evaluated current frameworks and policies that affect women in coastal areas. They looked at different ways to help women participate more in small-scale fishing, with an emphasis on financial inclusion, capacity building, and access to resources. Involvement from women in coastal communities, local NGOs, and government stakeholders led to the development of a thorough Gender Plan of Action. This plan outlines methods for capacity building, advocacy, and monitoring. The significance of public-private partnerships was also highlighted, with organisations such as the South African Maritime Association and the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) being identified as vital for long-term success.
Next Steps and Recommendations
The subsequent actions were outlined as follows:
After the Gender Plan of Action is finalised, workshop participants will receive a draft of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and have the opportunity to review and provide input on it before the deadline. When completed, it will be a part of larger plans to manage fisheries on a national and regional level. The importance of ongoing support from AU-IBAR and Blue Wild Coast NPO was highlighted, as was the need for continuous capacity building for women cooperatives in Port St. Johns and Hamburg. For the purpose of tracking and adjusting progress, gender-sensitive monitoring and evaluation indicators will be created and integrated into the M&E framework of the participating NGOs. Sustainable business models in small-scale fishing will also be a priority, therefore we'll be working to connect women's cooperatives with buyers and funding options.
Conclusion
For South African small-scale fisheries, the community workshop was a watershed moment in the fight for gender parity. At this event, women from coastal communities, along with representatives from government and NGOs, worked together to develop strategies that will empower women and involve them in managing aquatic biodiversity. Participation and representation of women in coastal communities in environmental management discussions will be enhanced by the workshop's outputs, which will play a pivotal role in informing future policies and interventions.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR).
Maile to visit Cemetery View informal settlement
Gauteng's Acting MEC for Human Settlements Lebogang Maile is this morning expected to visit Cemetery View informal settlement following a fire that destroyed shacks in Pretoria East.
“MEC Maile will use the visit to outline government's interventions to assist those affected. More than 2000 shacks were engulfed by the fire. MEC Maile is undertaking this important visit to ensure the safety, security and comfort of those affected by this unfortunate situation,” said the Gauteng Provincial government on Monday.
The MEC will be joined by the City of Tshwane MMC for Human Settlements, councillor Ofentse Madzebatela.
This as the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department responded to multiple shacks on fire in Woodlake Street in Pretorious Park on the morning of 21 September 2024.
“The multiple-shack fire was reported to the City of Tshwane Emergency Call Centre at about 04:07 am. The centre immediately dispatched multiple firefighting resources from Silverton Fire Station, Hazelwood Fire Station, Central Fire Station, Mamelodi Fire Station, Centurion Fire Station and Heuweloord Fire Station to the scene. These included two fire trucks, an industrial pumper, a mobile command unit, two rapid intervention units, a water carrier and a district commander’s unit,” said the city’s Emergency Services Department in a statement.
The City said that upon arrival firefighters reported that a large area in the informal settlement was on fire with multiple shacks well alight and many people standing outside.
Firefighters then started with firefighting operations and initiated evacuation procedures and the fire was extinguished at 5am.
About 814 shacks burned down and about 2600 people were affected by the fire.
“One male patient was treated on-site and transported to Steve Biko Academic Hospital for critical burn injuries. Another female patient with a critical medical condition was also treated on-site and transported to Mamelodi Hospital. A third patient sadly suffered fatal burn injuries. Gauteng Provincial Government Emergency Medical Services are managing all emergencies pertaining to patients in this regard,” said the city.
The cause of the fire had not been determined.
“The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and the scene is a declared as a hot zone and a crime scene.”
The city urged residents to be cautious and to extinguish paraffin fires with sand or a fire extinguisher and to never overload electrical plugs, among others. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 10:31