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North West Premier proposes Eskom take over Ditsobotla electricity supply

Location: News

North West Premier proposes Eskom take over Ditsobotla electricity supply

The North West Provincial Government, led by Premier Lazarus Mokgosi, has held an engagement session with the Council of Ditsobotla Local Municipality in Lichtenburg to address the municipality’s ongoing service delivery challenges, particularly regarding electricity supply.

During the meeting, the provincial government proposed that the struggling municipality transfer its electricity rights to Eskom, under the oversight of the Ministry of Electricity.

The special Council meeting, held on Tuesday, was attended by Premier Mokgosi, who was invited by the Council, and MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi. The visit aimed to engage directly with councillors to explore solutions to service delivery challenges.

Lichtenburg has faced severe power supply issues, including prolonged blackouts in 2023 after Eskom cut off electricity due to the municipality’s historic debt. Reports indicate that Ditsobotla Local Municipality owed Eskom over R1 billion at the time, making it one of the country’s largest defaulters.

Premier Mokgosi urged the Council to support the proposal to allow Eskom to take over the electricity supply function. He argued that this intervention would ensure an uninterrupted power supply across the municipality, as previous efforts by the local government had failed to produce the desired outcomes.

“The municipality is facing numerous challenges, and at the center of these challenges are the people we must serve,” Mokgosi said. “The municipality lacks both the financial capacity and the necessary skills to manage electricity provision. One of the options we presented was for Eskom to assume full responsibility for electricity operations to alleviate this burden.”

However, councillors expressed concerns about revenue collection from electricity supply and the potential financial implications for the municipality. To address these concerns, the parties agreed to hold a follow-up engagement session with all relevant stakeholders to discuss the details of the proposed intervention.

“We are exploring every possible avenue to stabilize this municipality,” Mokgosi emphasized. “It is essential for all of us to work together to achieve this objective.”

The upcoming engagement session will be led by Premier Mokgosi and attended by MEC for CoGHSTA, representatives from the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, the Ministry of Electricity, and the Department of Water and Sanitation.

The session will include discussions on a Section 154 intervention report and address questions about blocked and ongoing projects in the municipality.

“This collaborative effort aims to stabilize the municipality and ensure reliable service delivery for the residents of Ditsobotla,” Mokgosi concluded.

– SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 10:02

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South Africa is undergoing ‘fundamental transformation’ – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

South Africa is undergoing 'fundamental transformation' - President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa, says South Africa is undergoing a “fundamental transformation” - as it seeks to accelerate inclusive economic growth.

President Ramaphosa was speaking at the South Africa Night World Economic Forum (WEF), held at the Garden Hall in Davos Klosters, Switzerland, on Tuesday evening.

The event, hosted by Brand South Africa, celebrated the country's G20 Presidency, an extraordinary opportunity to shape the global agenda for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

The event was held on the sidelines of the annual WEF meeting, which is taking place from 20-24 January 2025, under the theme: "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age". 

The President told the gathering that the country has introduced reforms in sectors, including water, electricity and logistics, that are serving as a base for economic growth.

“South Africa is undergoing a fundamental transformation. We have introduced bold economic reforms to overcome persistent challenges and unlock the vast potential of our country and its people. 

“These reforms have underpinned the country’s economic recovery in the wake of more than a decade of stagnant growth, state capture and the worst global pandemic in more than a century. These reforms are laying a firm foundation for sustained and accelerated growth into the future,” President Ramaphosa said.

He added that the reforms, and the subsequent structural transformation are “sharpening South Africa’s competitive edge, boosting productivity and attracting investment”.

The President pointed to the establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU), as an example of the commitment from all leaders to maintain “stability, progress and partnership” in South Africa, as the country moves towards inclusive growth.

“While each party campaigned on different platforms, the Government of National Unity has agreed on a common programme to grow an inclusive economy, create jobs and build a capable state.

“Surveys have shown that South Africans have confidence in the Government of National Unity to take the country forward. It has also contributed to a marked improvement in business and investor confidence,” he said.

President Ramaphosa also pointed to partnerships that have been developed between government and social partners, in order to drive the country forward and face challenges together.

“We have a tradition of dialogue and cooperation, of working together to overcome even the most intractable of problems. As we confront the challenges of the present, social partners have been working together, in various forms and forums, to drive a programme of inclusive growth and transformation.

“A concrete example of this is the strategic partnership between the South African government and business. This collaboration focuses on innovative solutions to tackle critical issues, such as energy security, infrastructure gaps, crime and corruption, and job creation,” President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa described 2025 as “a momentous year for South Africa”, as the country takes its place as the first African country to bear the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20).

He said through South Africa’s G20 Presidency, the country will demonstrate its unwavering commitment to global solidarity, equality, and sustainability.

“From the triumph of democracy 30 years ago, to our ongoing pursuit of inclusive growth, South Africa has demonstrated that collaboration and determination can shape a brighter future. It is this ethos we bring to the G20. 

“Our Presidency provides a platform to amplify voices that have often gone unheard. It is an opportunity to advocate for solutions that prioritise the well-being of all, particularly the most vulnerable. South Africa is well placed to play this role,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 10:30

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Read moreSouth Africa is undergoing ‘fundamental transformation’ – President Ramaphosa

South Africa takes it message of partnership and progress to Davos

Location: News

South Africa takes it message of partnership and progress to Davos

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed government’s commitment to work with all social partners in pursuit of inclusive growth that benefits all South Africans and leaves no one behind.

The President said this in his weekly newsletter as South Africa takes its message of partnership and progress to Davos, Switzerland, this week. 

President Ramaphosa and his delegation will this week attend the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos where they will be outlining South Africa’s priorities for its G20 Presidency. 

“One of the messages we will be taking to Davos is our ongoing commitment to partnerships in pursuit of inclusive growth and sustainable development.

“We will present our experiences of cooperation across society in South Africa and encourage greater emphasis on partnerships in international relations. In particular, we will make a call for global companies to partner with governments, entrepreneurs and stakeholders in emerging markets to pursue sustainable and inclusive growth,” the President said. 

At the centre of South Africa’s G20 agenda is the promotion of cooperation among G20 and other countries on the most pressing issues facing the world. 

President Ramaphosa emphasised that this cooperation should not only take place at a government-to-government level. It should involve all social formations.

As in previous G20 presidencies, dialogue with civil society and other non-government institutions will be conducted through various engagement groups. 

These engagement groups cover sectors such as business, labour, civil society, parliamentary bodies and the judiciary. Following the approach of the Brazilian G20 Presidency in 2024, South Africa will be convening a G20 Social Forum which will bring together representatives of engagement groups and other segments of civil society.

Partnership is key to South Africa’s growth and progress

President Ramaphosa highlighted that as the 7th Administration took office last year, it has made a commitment to reach out across society to find solutions to the challenges the country faces.

Since then, the President said government has placed partnership at the centre of its work.

The President highlighted that while South Africa has a rich history of dialogue and cooperation, the nation’s experience of the COVID-19 pandemic underlined how important collaboration was in saving lives and livelihoods. It showed the value of effective coordination across the state and with other sectors of society.

“One of the areas where partnerships within the state have had the greatest impact is in Operation Vulindlela. This initiative has brought together government departments and public institutions to undertake focused reforms in areas such as energy, logistics, telecommunications and water infrastructure.

“We also have structures like the President’s Coordinating Council, which brings together leaders from national, provincial and local governments to deal collectively with common challenges,” the President said. 

In other areas, the 7th Administration has brought the different spheres of Government together with other stakeholders. Last year, the President established the Presidential eThekwini Working Group to support the metro in its efforts to restore business confidence and overcome service delivery challenges. 

Together, the working group has made progress on things such as water supply, tourism infrastructure and law enforcement. 

“We have seen the value of partnership in our response to the electricity crisis. The progress we have made in reducing the severity of load shedding has been made possible by bringing together Government departments, State-owned companies, business, labour and other social partners. The National Electricity Crisis Committee has played a crucial role in coordinating and focusing the efforts of these many different players,” he said. 

Another area that is benefiting from such partnerships is in rail and port operations. President Ramaphosa noted that these are beginning to stabilise and recover lost volumes as a result of efforts to support Transnet’s operational recovery.

“An important area of structured cooperation is the partnership between Government and business to unlock impediments to inclusive growth. Though our respective roles and mandates may differ, we are aligned on the need to drive inclusive economic growth and job creation,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa explained that areas of cooperation have extended beyond immediate economic issues. For example, Government came together with civil society partners on a national strategy to end gender-based violence and femicide. 

Furthermore, government has worked with various sectors through bodies like the South African National Aids Council and the Human Resource Development Council, leveraging collective resources and capabilities to promote development. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 08:48

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Weather service warns of thunderstorms

Location: News

Weather service warns of thunderstorms

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of thunderstorms that have the potential to become severe with heavy rain and strong winds in Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga from this afternoon. 

On Thursday, SAWS said the thunderstorms will occur with saturated soil and an additional 15-30mm of rain.

This is likely to cause localised flooding in susceptible low-lying areas and bridges, falling trees due to strong winds and localised service disruption due to power surges.

In addition, there will be poor driving conditions due to pooling of water on roads and reduced visibility can also be expected. Trees may also fall due to strong winds. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 13:53

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Read moreWeather service warns of thunderstorms

eThekwini invests millions to upgrade infrastructure

Location: News

eThekwini invests millions to upgrade infrastructure

Just like many cities in South Africa, eThekwini is experiencing urban decay due to migration for economic opportunities, property abandonment, service delivery and crime.

These conditions were exacerbated, in part, by the catastrophic floods in 2022 that destroyed critical infrastructure, including roads, communication and electrical systems.

To respond to the challenges of the municipality, President Cyril Ramaphosa established the eThekwini Presidential Working Group (PeWG) in April 2024.

The Working Group was established to accelerate support from national and provincial government to rebuild the municipality.

Since its establishment, the Working Group has provided support and fast-tracked efforts by the eThekwini municipality to improve service delivery, improve business confidence, and reposition eThekwini as an investment and tourism attraction.

The Working Group operates across three spheres of government and includes representatives from the private sector and labour.

Developing the informal economy

Last November, the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality announced plans to develop the informal economy sector by upgrading the infrastructure used by traders.

These projects include the R10 million upgrade of the Dalton Art and Craft Market, R15 million upgrade for the Mansel Road Market, R2.5 million upgrade for the Tongaat Trader Market, R4 million upgrade for the KwaMaKhutha Business Hive (Ward 94) and the R4.3 million upgrade for the Klaarwater Business Hive (Ward 17).

Traders at the Mansel Road Market were visited by Small Business Development Minister Stella-Ndabeni-Abrahams last year.

“The Minister handed over about 100 sewing machines, equipment for those running food handling facilities such as freezers, pots, gas stoves, and microwaves.

“This doesn’t happen anywhere on the continent where the government freely provides equipment to informal traders. This shows us that our government is taking care of us,” Chairman for Mansel Road Market Traders Mboneni Qwabe told SAnews during a visit to the site recently.

eThekwini Municipality Senior Manager for the Informal Economy, Michael Hlangu, said the Mansel Road Market was a hive of activity during weekends with customers coming from all over South Africa and other countries on the continent.
The retail market offers among others clothing, food stalls, traditional drums, bedding, and traditional attire.
About 180 traders operating at the market are expected to benefit from the refurbishment of the facility, which includes a new building with new ablution facilities, electricity, water and a parking area.

“We have 184 container traders. Some of the containers are dilapidated. We are planning to convert the containers into brick and mortar. We have appointed contractors for the project and the traders will be relocated this month to a new location so the construction of the project can commence.

“During the construction phase it is anticipated that about 100 people will benefit from job opportunities. All traders that are operating in this facility have been registered with the municipality.

“The majority of them have business licences and they renew them on an annual basis. The rental for the food section [is] R664 per month and they sign a lease agreement with the municipality. We regularly conduct training on health and safety to ensure that the vendors comply with the regulations and by-laws,” Hlangu explained.

The municipality is responsible for maintaining the facility, which includes providing security, cleaning services and electricity.

Making a difference

Qwabe said the municipality hosts business summits each year and updates traders on the work being done to uplift the informal economy.

“There is a lot of work that has been done to improve the operations of the traders. When this place was opened in 1996, there were no containers. People were selling from their cars under the carport, and this was changed to containers, but the containers have deteriorated over the years.

“The municipality has come to assist the traders as they are now building a new structure for us. We have seen the plan and it’s good. We will be able to attract tourists with the new building,” he said.

Qwabe further explained that Mansel Road Market is a hub for traditional attire.

“It’s unfortunate that tourists don’t visit this area. I don’t think that when they return to their home countries, they have enough to show that they were in South Africa.

“We are the Zulu kingdom and in the Zulu kingdom there are items that showcase the Zulu culture, and you will find them here. We have unique items that you won’t find anywhere else. We would like the market to be a tourist attraction,” Qwabe said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 12:05

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SA calls for lasting peace after Middle East ceasefire agreement

Location: News

SA calls for lasting peace after Middle East ceasefire agreement

South Africa is calling for the establishment of a just and lasting peace that protects and promotes the human rights of both Palestinians and Israelis. 

This statement follows confirmation from mediators that a ceasefire agreement has been reached between Hamas and Israel after 15 months of conflict.

“South Africa welcomes the ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas after 15 months of Israel’s genocidal onslaught on Gaza after Hamas and other armed groups launched an attack on Israel,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said on Wednesday evening. 

According to Al Jazeera, the truce will take effect on Sunday, 19 January 2025, if approved.

According to the news channel, Israel’s war in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least 46 707 Palestinians and 110 265 wounded since 7 October 2023. 

Meanwhile, at least 1 139 people were killed in Israel during the Hamas-led attacks on that day, and more than 200 people were taken captive.

The department believes that the ceasefire agreement is a crucial first step toward ending the severe humanitarian crisis faced by the 2.3 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. 

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has indicated that the situation may be plausibly genocidal.

“The ceasefire must lay the basis for a just peace, which should include the establishment of a contiguous, independent, and viable Palestinian State. Palestinian sovereignty and territorial integrity must be upheld. 

“It is imperative that no land is annexed in either Gaza or the West Bank following the ceasefire, and that illegal settlement expansion is halted.”

In line with the ICJ's successive rulings, DIRCO firmly believes that the occupying power must follow the provisional measures recommended by the ICJ.

“International law and humanitarian law must be respected and upheld. Immediate and massive humanitarian aid is urgently needed to provide relief to civilians in Gaza.” 

Meanwhile, South Africa said all obstacles to delivering humanitarian aid must be lifted immediately and unconditionally, allowing civilians unrestricted access to essential food, water, shelter, and healthcare. 

Outgoing United States President Joe Biden announced yesterday that after many months of intensive diplomacy by his country, along with Egypt and Qatar, Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire and hostage deal.

“My diplomacy never ceased in their efforts to get this done – I will speak more about this soon. For now, I am thrilled that those who have been held hostage are being reunited with their families,” President Biden said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 09:34

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Department monitors Vaal Dam levels

Location: News

Department monitors Vaal Dam levels

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is closely monitoring the Vaal Dam after the dam’s water levels drastically increased from last week’s 24.3% to 46.2% this week.

According to the department’s real time data, the water levels have again significantly increased overnight to 50.53%.

Departmental spokesperson, Wisane Mavasa, said the dam has, for the past few months, been on a downward spiral with the department making plans to release water from the Sterkfontein Dam into the Vaal Dam, to augment its levels when it reached 18% in volume.

However, Mavasa said this will no longer be necessary, as the dam is rapidly rising. This is due to this week’s heavy rainfall experienced in Gauteng, and other provinces, including North West, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal.
She said the department is now clear of the risk of the dam dropping below its minimum operating level of 18%.

“The dam had experienced continuous decline over the past few months due to elevated temperatures which have led to increased evaporation losses, and the low inflows owing into the dam, due to lack of rainfall in the Vaal catchment.

“The current dam level is now plotting above 50% and there is a good inflow because of recent rainfall in the catchment. There is therefore no more a need for water release from Sterkfontein Dam to support Vaal Dam,” Mavasa said in a statement on Wednesday.

Mavasa said the rising of the dam levels has also boosted the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS) that provides water to Gauteng and key industries within the province that has shot up from 71.4% to 79.4% this week.

“Recent rainfall has significantly improved surface water storage levels in the country’s dams with 79.8% this week, a huge increase as compared to last week’s 74.5%. Although the heavy and disruptive rainfall has resulted in localised flooding in those provinces, it has also boosted their Water Supply Systems significantly,” Mavasa explained.

The Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces have also experienced the highest upsurge with 10.2%, respectively.

The dam levels in Mpumalanga have increased from 82.9% to 93.1% this week, while KwaZulu-Natal increased from 81.0% to 91.2%.

Limpopo has also increased from 73.2% to 82.6% this week, while North West rose from last week’s 64.7% to 72.5%, with Free State seeing a considerable increase from last week’s 68.5% to 72.6% this week.

Rainfall in parts of the provinces has exceeded 150 millimetres (mm), while parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu Natal received more than 200 mm.

“There is an expectation of isolated to scattered rainfall over central and eastern areas of the country, particularly in [the] Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces this week, as a result, surface water storage in these areas is expected to improve further next week.

“However, the Department of Water and Sanitation would like to caution the residents in those provinces to be careful during the heavy rains, and urge residents to avoid water bodies, particularly when the rain can be disruptive, “ Mavasa said.

She also urged the public to stay away from rivers, lakes and dams, especially in the low-lying areas.

“Pedestrians should avoid crossing bridges, and motorists should also refrain from driving through flooded areas, even though the water seems to be shallow. Water can be deadly during the floods and should not at all be underestimated. Let us all keep safe and stay indoors, if possible.”

While the surface water storage capacity has improved in the majority of the country’s dams in most provinces, the department reiterated its call on citizens to continue to use water sparingly. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 10:04

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Transforming eThekwini into a safer city

Location: News

Transforming eThekwini into a safer city

The city of eThekwini is famous for its year round warm weather; its pristine beaches; its rich Zulu heritage and its friendly people.

These attractions make the coastal city an ideal place for investors to do business in Durban.

However, in recent years, the economic powerhouse of KwaZulu-Natal has lost some of its appeal due to among other things, contamination at its beaches, a decline in tourism, water supply challenges, an increase in crime, dilapidated infrastructure and challenges with maintaining cleanliness.

To return the city to its former glory, President Cyril Ramaphosa established the eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) in April 2024.

The PeWG is a multi-stakeholder mechanism crafted to address critical service delivery, infrastructure and socio-economic challenges within the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality with the goal of positioning the city as an investment and tourism hub.

It operates across three spheres of government and includes representatives from the private sector and labour.

With crime being one of the challenges that act as a deterrent to holidaymakers and drive away investors in the city, the South African Police Service (SAPS) working together with the city, has increased crime combating operations and deployed more boots on the ground to ensure visibility. 

In the lead up to the festive season, between 1 October and 15 November 2024, over 31 491 law enforcement officers from SAPS and 1538 metro police officers were deployed in eThekwini to enhance community safety through high-density operations. These operations are ongoing and continued throughout the festive season.

Speaking exclusively to SAnews about law enforcement operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, said the collaboration with the Metro Police and other law enforcement agencies was producing great results.

“As the SAPS, working together with the Metro Police and other law enforcement agencies, we have been able to push back on crime. We have been able to increase patrols, intelligence collection and crime combating operations. 

“We have also been able to create an environment that enables business to operate. Our mission is to create a conducive environment for business to operate and function so that our citizens can get employment," Mkhwanazi said.

According to the progress report by the Working Group, business confidence in 2024 increased by 24.59%. In the first quarter, business confidence stood at 38.42% and increased to 63.01% in the third quarter.

“We must appreciate the intervention from national government through the Working Group. With the collaborative efforts of working with other government departments that are driving tourism and the security cluster, we have seen an increase in the recruitment of metro police officers that joined the service to ensure that we have more officers on the ground.

“As the SAPS, we have also received new Constables that were recruited and deployed in this area to ensure visibility on the ground. We are deploying strategically in key areas that are a hotspot for crime, and we have been able to reduce criminal activities in those areas,” he said.

As a result, residents can enjoy going for a jog at the beach front as early as 4am in the morning, as law enforcement operations are being implemented around the clock.

“We have maximum visibility by using blue light patrols which enables people to see our presence when the sun goes down. Anyone witnessing crime can easily reach out to law enforcement officials.

“We have increased the foot patrols to ensure that we can reach places that we would ordinarily not see when we are driving in the vehicles. We have procured motorbikes and deployed bicycles in the beachfront as well as in the city.

“We are confident with the operations that we are running in the city. We are seeing an increase in tourists visiting the city and business confidence. We are also partnering with the private sector’s security companies that are looking after business establishments in the city,” Mkhwanazi said.

Last November, the city announced that it was transferring its Closed-Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV) to the Metro Police Unit and Fire and Emergency Unit for management to enhance crime fighting and public safety while ensuring coordinated efforts to respond effectively to disasters.

The transfer included the Emergency Mobilising and Communication Centre (EMACC) and the technical services functions, which are being transferred to the Information Management Unit under the Office of the City Manager.

“In the past, these cameras were being controlled by Disaster Management, which was a challenge for law enforcement to utilise and operate them. With the transfer, the police have easy access to the cameras and as a result the response time to crime is shorter.

“Law enforcement can respond with speed because we have police officers monitoring the cameras and guide the members on the ground to respond to criminal activities. These are some of the results that we are seeing due to the work of the Working Group. Technology play a big role in in our crime fighting efforts,” the provincial Police Commissioner said.

Between 1 October and 15 November 2024, operations by SAPS officers and metro police officers saw 1 500 arrests, 150 undocumented persons were arrested, 322 suspects were arrested for the illegal possession of firearms and 58 949 drugs were recovered. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 01/15/2025 - 14:53

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KZN CoGTA moves to address Ray Nkonyeni Municipality challenges

Location: News

KZN CoGTA moves to address Ray Nkonyeni Municipality challenges

KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has intervened to resolve the impasse at the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, which has halted service delivery.

Buthelezi convened a meeting with ratepayers, including business representatives, trade unions and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality leaders, to resolve the three-month-long workers' strike, which has affected service delivery.

Held at the municipality’s council chamber in Port Shepstone last Friday, the meeting was attended by the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality Deputy Mayor, Sibusiso Shange, various representatives from business forums, tourism businesses, amakhosi, and ratepayers.

The strike has devastated service delivery in the key tourism hub, causing significant financial losses to businesses and forcing residents to seek alternative solutions for essential services, including waste collection, water and electricity.

The dispute between the municipality and its employees stems from an arbitration award related to back pay and the regrading of workers following the 2016 merger of Ezinqolweni and Hibiscus Coast Local Municipalities to form Ray Nkonyeni Municipality.

The municipality appealed the arbitration decision, and the matter remains unresolved in the Labour Court. 

In October 2024, workers commenced industrial action, demanding the municipality honour the award.

During the meeting on Friday, Buthelezi provided all stakeholders with an opportunity to express their concerns and propose solutions.

Business and tourism representatives emphasised the heavy losses incurred due to the lack of service delivery, while amakhosi called for an urgent resolution, highlighting the negative impact on businesses and residents’ well-being.

Buthelezi said the municipality could have handled this matter with greater diligence to avoid a complete shutdown.

The MEC said it was the department’s responsibility to mediate and give all parties a final opportunity to engage constructively and resolve the issue.

He said some aspects of the situation could have been better managed.

"[However] before we take decisive action, we are allowing a two-week period for resolution.

“Our primary aim is to safeguard jobs and ensure that businesses do not continue to suffer irreparable harm. When businesses close, people lose jobs – something we must prevent at all costs.

“All stakeholders, including amakhosi, have expressed their desire for an end to the strike and we expect an amicable solution to be reached by 31 January 2025. Should this not occur, the department will have no choice but to implement further interventions,” Buthelezi said.

The MEC is expected to return to the municipality on 31 January 2025 to review progress and take further action. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 01/14/2025 - 11:31

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Severe thunderstorms expected over parts of the country 

Location: News

Severe thunderstorms expected over parts of the country 

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued weather alerts for severe thunderstorms that are likely to affect parts of Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

The weather service has issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for the three provinces that is valid from 9 am until 11 pm on Sunday.

The warning could lead to the flooding of roads, settlements and low-lying areas. It could also lead to traffic disruptions and damage to property and infrastructure.

“Tropical moisture is drawn in north of the country which will subsequently aid in the development of thunderstorms today, whereas there are areas that are already precipitating. This will result in adverse weather conditions over Mpumalanga as well as the southern parts of Limpopo.

“Due to the recent rains, there has been an increase in soil moisture, thus increase the vulnerability across the province,” the weather service said in a post on social media platform, X.

It further added that a Yellow Level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms has also been issued for most parts of Limpopo.

The impact of the warning includes localised flooding of susceptible low-lying areas and bridges, the possibility of the closure of low-lying roads and dirt roads, and poor driving conditions due to the pooling of water on roads and reduced visibility.

READ | SAWS issues heavy rain warning

-SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo
Sun, 01/12/2025 - 10:29

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Read moreSevere thunderstorms expected over parts of the country 

Meeting held to resolve Ditsobotla water and electricity challenges

Location: News

Meeting held to resolve Ditsobotla water and electricity challenges

The North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has committed to collaborating with all relevant stakeholders to resolve challenges at the Ditsobotla Local Municipality.

The department made the commitment during a meeting with the Ditsobotla Local Municipality and the Ditsobotla Service Association (DSA) to discuss challenges confronting the municipality.

This follows electricity outages in Lichtenburg and complaints of water shortages for prolonged periods in other areas, leading to protest action by residents.

CoGTA Head of Department (HOD), Dr Ben Bole, convened the meeting on Thursday to address the critical issues and identify lasting solutions to the municipality’s challenges.

Bole said partnerships between the provincial government, municipality and various stakeholders are key to addressing challenges of service delivery across the municipalities in general, particularly in Ditsobotla.

As part of improving good governance and recovering efficient financial systems, Bole said the department will continue its partnership with the Provincial Treasury to intervene and enable Ditsobotla Municipality to function better.

The meeting considered avenues of collaboration between all stakeholders, including the provision of the needed technical expertise to unlock service delivery challenges.

“The department believes collaboration with stakeholders in Ditsobotla may develop a concrete, sustainable and efficient solution to long-standing infrastructure problems faced in the municipality, particularly electricity and water systems. 

“We are committed to working together with all relevant stakeholders towards a lasting solution that will transform the service delivery landscape and improve the quality of life for the residents of Ditsobotla,” Bole said.

During the meeting, Ditsobotla Municipal Manager, Olaotse  Bojosinyane, urged the residents to remain calm while they resolve the electricity issues.

Bojosinyane reported that the municipality has since managed to restore power to certain parts of Lichtenburg, while some areas are still outstanding and receiving attention.

Bojosinyane said the service provider is still on site and attending to power issues. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 12:32

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Read moreMeeting held to resolve Ditsobotla water and electricity challenges

SAWS issues heavy rain warning

Location: News

SAWS issues heavy rain warning

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers over the central and eastern parts of the country, which may result in heavy downpours and lead to flooding.

In an alert issued on Thursday, the SAWS warned that isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are expected over KwaZulu-Natal on Friday, with damaging winds, excessive lightning, hail and heavy downpours expected over the western parts of the province.

“Severe thunderstorms are expected over the western parts, which may be accompanied by large amounts of small hail, strong damaging winds, excessive lightning, and heavy downpours, which may lead to localised impacts.

“Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are [also] expected over the eastern areas, but widespread over the escarpments of Mpumalanga on Saturday. The showers will be isolated along the south coast on Friday,” SAWS explained.

Motorists are encouraged to ensure clear windscreens, as traffic and road markings could be difficult to see during the occurrence of heavy rain, “even for vehicles with properly working wipers, in some instances”.

“Further, it is inevitable that some low-water bridges could overflow, with powerful water currents that could sweep away vehicles and lead to loss of lives and property. It is strongly advised that motorists do not enter flooded low-water bridges or roads,” SAWS said.

To ensure safety and preparedness, the following precautions are advised to:
•    Avoid crossing flooded roads or swollen streams.
•    Move to higher ground if rising water levels are observed.
•    Refrain from travelling on bridges or roads in low-lying areas, which are particularly vulnerable to flooding. 

– SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 14:00

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North West on high alert amid heavy rains

Location: News

North West on high alert amid heavy rains

The North West Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PMDC), working together with Municipal Disaster Centres, remains on high alert for incidents of disaster across the province.

This follows heavy rainfall that affected many parts of the province and damaged infrastructure and properties. 

North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Gaoage Oageng Molapisi, said the disaster management teams are on the ground conducting a needs and impact assessment.

The province experienced heavy rainfall in the past few days and largely affecting district municipalities, including Bojanala Platinum and Ngaka Modiri Molema.

Molapisi said formal and informal houses were damaged by the heavy rains, as well as municipal infrastructure such as culverts, roads and bridges.

“Kromkuil bridge in Moretele has collapsed and scores of houses in the Moretele, Rustenburg, JB Marks, Ditsobotla, Ratlou and Mahikeng Local Municipalities were flooded. Roofs of houses at Mokgola in Ramotshere Moiloa and Ledig in Moses Kotane were blown away.

“Mud houses in Moshwaneng in the Ratlou Local Municipality were affected and face the possibility of collapsing. Public amenities such as hospitals, clinics and schools were also not spared. Lehurutshe Hospital and Moses Kotane Hospital in Ledig and General Delarey in Lichtenburg are some of the hospitals which were affected,” Molapisi said.

The Bogosi Clinic and Primary School in Moretele were water-logged and mop-up operations are underway to bring all affected facilities back to full operation. 

Upon receiving reports on disaster incidents, Molapisi directed coordination on the ground to assist affected residents and communities across the province. 

“The provincial preparedness and response contingency plan have been developed and are being implemented. Various sector departments and municipalities have been briefed and activated in line with their roles and responsibilities, and they use their own resources to respond to emergencies/disasters incidents.

“The National Department of Human Settlement provided Temporary Residential Units (TRU’s) for damaged houses in the province. The affected departments will reprioritise their budget to address the pressure created by the flood disaster incidents” Molapisi explained.

The MEC added that the Department of Social Development and the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has profiled affected families and Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grants were provided.

The Al-IMAAD and Gift of the Givers organisations have provided humanitarian relief in some affected areas, including Ditsobotla.

The humanitarian relief includes hygiene packs, blankets, food parcels and mattresses. The Red Cross donated 100 blankets to the Bojanala District Disaster Management Centre. 

Molapisi said the blocked drainage system caused flooding in most of the areas in the province.

The MEC has since directed sector departments and municipalities to budget for proactive disaster management activities to avert some of the disaster incidents.

“As part of the long-term intervention, municipalities must on an on-going basis maintain road infrastructures and storm water drainage systems to reduce flooding. The Department of Public Works and Roads, in collaboration with municipalities will repair damaged roads, bridges and culverts, and the Department of Human Settlements will repair all affected RDP houses. 

“Municipalities must incorporate disaster risk reduction into development planning, and they must also develop bylaws and their enforcement strategy thereof,” Molapisi said. 

The MEC reassured that the department and PDMC will continue to coordinate sectors to ensure safer and disaster-resilient communities in the province.

“The department is also working with South African Weather Service (SAWS) for issuance of severe weather early warnings to role-players and communities. SAWS predicts that the province will still experience above-normal rainfall throughout the autumn season,” Molapisi said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 10:46

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