Hundreds March in Joburg Demanding Water
Residents of Phumla Mqashi informal settlement say they’re not getting enough water from trucks
Water
Life Is Tough in Tin Town
“When it is raining, we spend our nights standing up”
Journalists called to tell positive African stories
Journalists called to tell positive African stories
While the continent faces many challenges, South African award-winning journalist, Benjamin Moshatama, has emphasised the importance of telling positive stories that reflect the progress and development in Africa.
With his story on the importance of shared water resources in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regional integration and development and the contribution of the Kingdom of Lesotho in the management of shared water resources, Moshatama won second prize in the Radio Category at the SADC Media Awards Competition.
“I was inspired to do the story because it’s a positive African story. At times when we look at Africa, we focus on the obvious trying story. Of course, as journalists we should look at the stories about the challenges on the continent, but the narrative cannot be one dimensional.
“It has to be multi-dimensional. Africa is a complex place. There are positive things happening on the continent and a lot of progress is being made, that is why it was important to tell the story,” the journalist from Channel Africa Radio told SAnews on Friday.
The SADC Media Awards are aimed at promoting excellence in the fields of Print Journalism, Radio Journalism, Television Journalism and Photojournalism.
They serve as a link for coordination and synchronisation between the formal structures of SADC member states and media. They further seek to bring and enhance a partnership between the media and government institutions.
The SADC Media Awards present a unique opportunity for the SADC region’s journalists to be celebrated and recognised by their peers.
“I am a very proud South African so to compete on a regional level was important for me to lift the flag of South Africa high in terms of our media representation and it’s important for us to shine a light on narratives showing the cooperative governance structures that are in the region,” he said.
Two South African journalists won in the Radio and Photo category respectively.
Fikile Necter Marakalla was the second prize winner in the Photo Category with her pictures that were published in SAnews and The Diplomatic Informer.
Marakalla’s winning entry highlighted the strong fraternal, historical as well as social relations between South Africa and the United Republic of Tanzania during the State visit of her Excellency Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Marakalla started working at the Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) as an intern in 2022 on a two-year contract and when it ended in March this year, she took up a position in the office of the Deputy President as a photographer.
“It’s an honour to be recognised for the work that I did so early in my career. I am looking forward to serving the public through my work, which captures government’s work and the programmes that are aimed improving the lives of South Africans,” she said.
South Africa’s participation in SADC is guided by the SADC Treaty. The SADC Treaty guides all Member States within the regional bloc.
The Treaty encourages the people of the region and their institutions to take initiatives to develop economic, social and cultural ties.
The GCIS is responsible for the implementation of the annual Southern African Development Community (SADC) Media Awards on behalf of South Africa.
Deputy Minister in The Presidency Kenneth Morolong encouraged media practitioners to share stories on the economic wellbeing of the continent, improvement of the standard of living and the improvement of quality of life, peace and security, freedom and social justice and economic progress.
“These awards are a testament to the power of hope in driving further success of SADC. We have a lot going for us as a region and we remain one of the most stable regions in Africa. The potential for our region is enormous,” Morolong said.
He was addressing the SADC Media Awards Dinner. -SANews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 12/01/2024 - 14:37
126 views
Dam owners called to register their dams within 60 days
Dam owners called to register their dams within 60 days
The Department of Water and Sanitation has called on unregistered dam owners across the country to register their dams in order to ensure dam safety compliance, as required by law.
This comes as Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, published a gazette notice calling for the registration of existing dams with a safety risk, as mandated by the National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998), along with Regulations 2, 3, and 37 of the Dam Safety Regulations (R 139 of 24 February 2012).
The registration process aims to ensure the safety of dams and reduce risks to the public, property and water resources.
The department’s Specialist Unit Head: Dam Safety Regulation, Wally Ramokopa said owners of dams meeting the criteria for classification as a dam with a safety risk, must verify their registration status, and submit the required forms to the Department of Water and Sanitation.
“The department considers a dam with a safety risk as a dam with a storage capacity exceeding 50 000 m³ (50 megalitres) of water, whether the water contains other substances or not, and having a vertical wall height of more than five meters, measured from the downstream base.
“Dam owners are required to update their details, if already registered and submit registration and classification forms, if not yet registered. Forms can be downloaded from the department’s website at www.dws.gov.za/dso or collected from the nearest departmental offices,” Ramokopa said.
The department enforces compliance for dam owners to conduct safety inspections at least every five years, where dam owners are required to arrange for the execution of a formal dam safety inspection by an Approved Professional Person (APP).
Ramokopa noted that when carrying out the five-yearly safety evaluation, the APP will conduct a flood frequency analysis to check whether the dam is able to route through different flood occurrences.
“This helps the department’s dam safety office in knowing beforehand whether the dam would be overtopped, should a certain size of a flood occur or potential damage of the dam. The department’s dam safety office then receives reports from APPs, which contain information pertaining to the flood handling capability and structural behaviour of dams.
“In addition to the dam safety regulations, dam owners must abide by the department’s dam safety office monitoring inspections to ensure that dam owners implement recommendations by APPs, once the dam safety evaluations are received,” Ramokopa explained.
He said failure to implement the APPs recommendations, especially when findings indicate that the dam may not be safe and has the potential to fail or cause loss of life, a directive is issued to compel the dam owners to comply.
Ramokopa issued a stern warning to dam owners who fail to comply with the regulations, emphasising that the department will not hesitate to take punitive measures to ensure compliance with the law.
“Dam owners are bound by law to comply and implement recommendations, as made by an APP after inspections are conducted. To prevent the loss of life and safeguard the environment, we will not even blink twice to ensure that dam owners do what is required of them by law,” Ramokopa emphasised.
The department is currently rolling out a mass multimedia campaign to raise awareness about the importance of dam registration, with the aim of ensuring that all dams with safety risks meet compliance standards to reduce potential harm to people, property and the environment.
The dam registration campaign is also aimed at maintaining an accurate database of dam ownership and safety compliance for effective regulation and risk management. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 11/29/2024 - 13:02
271 views
Durban Families Abandoned in 2010 World Cup Transit Camp
The eThekwini municipality says there is no budget to help residents of Zamani transit camp
Hundreds Left Homeless After Shack Fire at One of Durban’s Oldest Informal Settlements
About 150 shacks at Kenville informal settlement were gutted on Wednesday afternoon
Collective effort to alleviate poverty, reduce inequality
Collective effort to alleviate poverty, reduce inequality
As South Africa marks 30 years of democracy, President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged the great progress government has made in lifting millions of South Africans out of absolute poverty.
The President was delivering his annual address to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament, Cape Town on Thursday.
The address and debate was held under the theme: “Dedicating our Efforts Towards Reducing Poverty and Tacking the High Cost of Living”.
The President highlighted that in 1993, 71% of South Africans lived in poverty, by 2010 the poverty rate had dropped to 61% and in 2020, it was at 56%.
He further acknowledged that people’s lived experiences confirm the persistence of poverty and inequality.
“As we work to rebuild the economy, to create more employment and open opportunities for emerging businesses, we continue to assist the poorest and most vulnerable in our society.
“We provide various forms of support and protection through the ‘social wage’. This includes the provision of social grants, free basic services, health care, basic education, higher education, social housing and transport. When debt servicing costs are excluded, around 60% of government’s budget is spent on the social wage,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa said that while parties in the Government of National Unity differ on certain issues, they have committed themselves to inclusive economic growth and accelerated job creation.
“They have committed themselves to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living. And, to advance these priorities, the parties to the Government of National Unity have committed themselves to build a capable, ethical and developmental state.
“The decision by the NCOP to dedicate this debate to focus on our collective efforts to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living is a worthy and timely response to the mandate of the people,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that a vital part of the effort to reduce the cost of living is the provision of a free basic minimum of services to indigent households.
Through this programme, millions of people have been able to access basic needs like electricity and water.
He highlighted that social grants remain a lifeline for millions of people, particularly children, the elderly and persons with disabilities.
“The introduction of the Social Relief of Distress Grant during the COVID-19 pandemic has provided much-needed relief to as many as 11 million unemployed people at its peak. Today, around a half of all households in South Africa benefit from social grants.
“Among the measures to ensure that all South Africans have affordable access to sufficient food, government is looking at whether the basket of food items that is exempted from VAT could be expanded to include more basic products,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 11/28/2024 - 15:00
195 views
Call for tangible plan to ensure reliable water provision
Call for tangible plan to ensure reliable water provision
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seitlholo, has called on the Ngaka Modiri Molema District to put a tangible improvement plan in place, particularly regarding operation and infrastructure maintenance, to ensure reliable water provisioning and to efficiently supplement the current water demand shortfall.
Seitlholo made the call during an oversight visit to the Tswaing Local Municipality following concerns raised by Tswaing residents about various water provisioning challenges in the area.
The Deputy Minister inspected the boreholes meant to service communities in Blesbokpan, Kopela, Ottosdal, and the Sannieshof Water Tower, all located in Tswaing.
He was accompanied by Tswaing Local Municipality Mayor, Norah Mahlangu, technical teams from the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality - which is a Water Service Authority (WSA) - and the Water and Sanitation’s North West Regional Office.
Seitlholo was informed by the Tswaing Local Municipality that the majority of the water boreholes in the municipal area are not operational and those that are operational either have leaks or are at risk of being vandalised.
The Deputy Minister noted said teams from both the district and local municipalities do not know the water balance of the boreholes and how much water they can provide in terms of supply versus demand.
He said it was most concerning that borehole metres and boosters do not work.
“The challenges faced by these municipalities are immense and further exacerbated by the lack of engagement, communication and collegiality between the district and the local municipality. There are millions of rands that have been spent on contractors that have abandoned sites while communities are desperately waiting to get water.
“It is quite clear there are municipal officials, [including] politicians who are working together with scrupulous ‘tenderpreneurs’ who deliberately sabotage water and sanitation infrastructure in the Tswaing Local Municipality, and in all municipalities across the country,” Seitlholo said.
He added that the borehole stations that were visited have been vandalised, with electrical equipment ripped out of boxes.
“Due to travel distances and strategic areas where boreholes are built, there seems to suggest the damage to our infrastructure is caused by people with access to information and resources,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 11/28/2024 - 13:27
15 views
Wagging Tails and Smiles Greet Animal Welfare Society Volunteers
Volunteers visit a different town in the Kalahari and rural Northern Cape each Saturday to offer much-needed services to pets
Turning Rubbish Dumps Into Gardens in Upington
“It is the love of nature that keeps us going”
Joburg Protesters Block Roads, Demanding Water
Water supply in Coronationville, Claremont, and Westbury has been erratic for two years, they say
Minister commends “smooth and credible” matric exams
Minister commends "smooth and credible" matric exams
Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube has expressed her gratitude to the people involved in the delivery of successful 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
Gwarube commended the teachers, officials, parents and all stakeholders for ensuring smooth and credible matric examinations, which commenced on 21 October with the English Language paper.
“Your dedication and hard work have been instrumental in ensuring a smooth and credible examination process. Together, we are building an education system that upholds the values of fairness, integrity, and excellence,” Gwarube said.
Briefing the media on Wednesday, ahead of the official conclusion of the exams on Thursday, Gwarube said despite some challenges, the overall administration of the exams has been smooth, with minimal irregularities, “thanks to the collective efforts of our dedicated educators, administrators, and learners themselves”.
Gwarube said the administration of the exams highlighted both triumphs and areas for improvement.
She said stringent monitoring ensured a fair process, with high-risk examination centres closely supervised, with a minimum of 70% of centres monitored during each session.
“This robust system helped us maintain the integrity of the exams, even in the face of external disruptions,” Gwarube said.
Challenges included protest actions in some parts of the country, including Jan Kempdorp, Gert Sibande, and Limpopo, as well as inclement weather in the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga, which disrupted the exams for several learners.
A total of 319 learners in Eastern Cape were unable to write due to flooding. However, the Minister assured contingency plans were in place to allow the learners to rewrite their exams.
“We must acknowledge the violent incidents that overshadowed the exam period in parts of the country. In the Eastern Cape, five learners were gang raped while preparing for their exams at a local house. Just weeks later, another female learner was gang raped on 13 November also in the Eastern Cape.
“These heinous acts are a tragic reminder of the dangers that many learners face, especially young girls. As we observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, let these incidents serve as a rallying call to all South Africans to stand against such barbaric acts.
“Schools and communities must be places of safety, not spaces of fear, violence and abuse,” Gwarube said.
She urged matriculants to celebrate the end of exams responsibly and refrain from alcohol abuse.
“I urge matriculants to refrain from alcohol abuse during "pens down" events or matric rage parties. These moments should be a celebration of achievement, not a risk to life and safety,” Gwarube said.
Over 180 marking centres set up across the country
With the conclusion of the writing of the exams, the Minister said the focus will now shift to the marking process.
The department has set up 181 marking centres across the country, all of which have been audited and deemed ready.
“All marking centres will open on 27 November 2024 with the entire process involving over 50 000 markers. To ensure consistency and fairness, the department has already conducted 60 of the 164 planned Marking Standardisation Meetings (MSMs), during which marking guidelines are reviewed and finalised.
“This rigorous process will help us deliver accurate and reliable results, which are expected to be released on 13 January 2025, with provincial education departments releasing on 14 January 2025,” the Minister announced.
Gwarube noted that significant emphasis has been placed on food safety at marking centres, with online workshops on food handling protocols currently being conducted for Examination Managers, Marking Centre Managers and School Principals, to prevent any contamination.
She said that ensuring a clean and continuous water supply and adequate hydration in high-temperature areas was integral to the department’s preparations.
“These measures tie into a broader campaign on food safety across schools. Following recent incidents involving food-borne illnesses linked to agricultural-grade pesticides such as organophosphates, the Director-General has issued a circular to all schools advising against the use and storage of such chemicals on school premises.
“We have also advised school principals to only allow onto school premises vendors and/or food items bought from vendors who are compliant with applicable laws. This heightened awareness and regulation aims to protect learners and staff from preventable health hazards,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 11/27/2024 - 14:33
70 views
Holidaymakers warned of potentially rabid animals
Holidaymakers warned of potentially rabid animals
As the holiday season approaches, the public and travellers have been warned about the risk of rabies in dogs, Cape fur seals, and other animals.
The alert has been issued by the Department of Agriculture; the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment; the Department of Health, and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD).
“Collectively, the departments wish to alert members of the public about high-risk rabies areas in South Africa where the disease occurs in dogs, Cape fur seals and other animals.”
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects all mammals and can spread from animals to humans.
According to the NICD, the virus is transmitted in the saliva of infected animals through bites, scratches, and licks.
Rabies affects the brain and is fatal once a person or animal shows clinical signs, but it can be prevented through the vaccination of animals and immediate medical attention in people exposed to an infected animal.
The NICD said multiple reports of attacks on humans by aggressive Cape fur seals have been reported over the last few months along the Cape coastline.
“This is the first incidence of rabies being maintained in a marine mammal population. The public is urged to take note of this new risk of rabies in Cape fur seals and keep a respectful distance from these animals.”
Meanwhile, according to the statement, there have been deaths attributed to rabies from dogs in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and North West in 2024.
The public is encouraged to stay away from stray animals and not to touch animals they do not know.
“If a person suspects that an animal has rabies, this should be reported to the local State veterinary office, local welfare authority, wildlife rescue centre, Protected Areas Management Authority, or the police.”
How would I know if an animal might have rabies?
Animals with rabies show abnormal behaviour and signs of disease of the brain.
They may drool a lot, become paralysed, be unable to swallow, continuously vocalise such as barking, whining, howling, and become aggressive. They may also appear weak and in a comatose state.
Any mammal can become infected with rabies, including dogs, cats, livestock, jackals, foxes, mongooses and Cape fur seals.
Where does rabies occur in South Africa
Even though rabies occurs in all nine provinces of South Africa, rabies in dogs is common in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Limpopo.
Rabies in Cape fur seals is found and known to travel along the coastline of the Northern Cape, Western Cape, and Eastern Cape up to Algoa Bay.
What should I do if I was bitten or scratched by a rabid animal?
If a person is bitten, scratched, or licked by an animal suspected of having rabies, wash the wound well with soap and running water and immediately seek treatment at the nearest clinic or hospital to prevent rabies virus infection.
For more information about rabies post-exposure prophylaxis, visit the NICD website https://www.nicd.ac.za/diseases-a-z-index/rabies/.
How do I keep my animals safe?
All dogs and cats must be correctly vaccinated against rabies throughout their lives. This is required by law.
If you walk your dogs, keep them under control or on a leash to avoid contact with other animals.
Enquire with your local state veterinarian, animal health technician, private veterinarian, or animal welfare organisation for access to rabies vaccinations. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 11/27/2024 - 10:24
274 views
Brightly Coloured Double-Storey Homes Replace Shacks in Khayelitsha
The Urban Think Tank Empower project has been in the works for about ten years
Villagers Work With Eastern Cape Municipality to Fix Water Supply
The Mncwasa Water Scheme has been revived
NW municipalities called to prioritise water services management assets
NW municipalities called to prioritise water services management assets
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has called on municipalities in the North West to prioritise the assets of water and sanitation services to ensure sustainable water provision to communities.
Mahlobo made the call at the annual South African Local Government Association (SALGA) Provincial Members Assembly, held recently at Sun City Convention Centre.
The Minister joined North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Deputy Minister, Seiso Mohai, and North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Oageng Molapisi at the event.
Speaking at the meeting, Mahlobo said while North West municipalities have ensured basic access to clean drinking water over the last 30 years, their recent performance has declined regarding water provision services to the people due to ageing water infrastructure and the illegal connections to the systems by communities.
He said there was a waning quality of drinking water and an increase in loss of water from water infrastructures, according to the Blue Drop, Green Drop and No drop reports released by the Department of Water and Sanitation, last year.
Despite numerous water projects implemented through Operation Bulela Metsi - a provincial initiative geared towards enhancing access to consistent and reliable water supply in North West province - Mahlobo said there was still an urgent need to address water and sanitation challenges in the province.
Mahlobo said water availability and reliability in certain areas within the province has moved from about 92% to close to 52%.
“We are now at a point as municipalities to improve water services. We should continue to work together as the different spheres of government to turn the situation around and ensure water efficiency in the province,” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister called for technical interventions by municipalities to address the water efficiency challenges.
He advised the municipalities to implement measures of water flow restrictions and pressure management to regulate water availability, maintain and replace water pipes, and urgently address small and large water leaks in both public and private water networks.
He encouraged a behaviour change from communities about their water consumption, highlighting that there are some municipalities that cannot provide communities with water.
He assured the department did not intent to take the municipalities powers as the Water Services Authority.
However, a possible solution is for the poor performing municipalities to use Section 78 of the National Water Act to appoint capable water service providers, be it another municipality, a water board or an entity that has financial and technical capability to deliver the services, to executive their functions while they build their capacity. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/25/2024 - 13:01
13 views
Klipplaat Water Treatment Works to provide quality drinking water
Klipplaat Water Treatment Works to provide quality drinking water
Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina has handed over a certificate of the completed water treatment works plant located in Klipplaat, Eastern Cape, declaring that the plant is ready to provide quality drinking water to residents.
The plant is part of the Ikwezi Regional Bulk Water Supply Scheme funded by the Department of Water and Sanitation to the tune of R67 million through the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG).
The plant is set to benefit the 2 215-strong population of Klipplaat, and an estimated population of 5 612 in the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality.
Majodina handed over the plant to Dr Beyers Naude Local Municipality (DBNLM) Mayor, Willem Safers, during a ceremony held at the Klipplaat Water Treatment Works over the weekend.
The project includes the construction of a new water treatment works that treats 1.2 million litres of water per day; a 0.8 million litres storage reservoir and pump stations, which will supply the community of Klipplaat. The new plant replaces an old pipe, which produced 0.3 mega litres of water for the Klipplaat community.
A raw water pipeline from the Klipfontein Dam to the water treatment works and to the water reservoir was installed at the water treatment works. In addition, one borehole was drilled and installed, with two existing boreholes refurbished to augment water supply to the community.
A new water treatment works, producing 1.2 megalitres of water, was also constructed in Jansenville, where six boreholes were refurbished, and a reconfiguration of a new water pipeline was done from the boreholes to the reservoirs.
Previously, tap water was undrinkable due to a bad smell caused by hydrogen sulfide gas released from the boreholes’ aquifers. The problem of contaminated water has since been resolved using nanotechnology.
Majodina urged Safers to ensure that the newly built infrastructure is well managed and maintained to ensure reliability and assurance of water supply for the small community in the Karoo.
The Minister said the project has improved water supply to the area and also improved the quality of drinking water.
“While we celebrate the improved water supply, the municipality must repair water leaks to prevent water losses. The community must also pay their municipal bills, so that the municipality can reinvest revenue generated from water supply back into water provisioning and for operation and maintenance.
“Sustainable water supply will also result in improved economic development in the area because investors will be encouraged to invest in the area because of the reliable water supply,” Majodina said.
Following the handover of the project to the municipality, Majodina held a ministerial community engagement at Klipplaat Community Hall, where she urged the community to look after the water infrastructure and protect it from vandalism.
She also encouraged residents to save water and report water leaks to the municipality.
During the engagement, the community was also given an opportunity to engage with the Minister, and to raise their concerns on water-related challenges.
The community expressed gratitude for the water project, which has alleviated their water challenges.
Among the concerns raised include the issue of leaking water meters and weak water pressure.
The municipality made an undertaking to address all the issues raised. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/25/2024 - 11:30
115 views
14 illegal miners arrested in Stilfontein
14 illegal miners arrested in Stilfontein
A total of 14 illegal miners were arrested after they emerged from the disused mines in Stilfontein in the North West, where they had been holed up for months following the arrival of police as part of Operation Vala Umgodi.
The illegal miners resurfaced at night under the impression that police were not standing guard. Some ran back into the shaft as soon as they noticed the police.
According to the police, all the arrested illegal miners are Mozambican nationals, and a 14-year-old boy is among them.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the illegal miners resurfaced near a shaft from which other illegal miners have been resurfacing.
Mathe said the resurfacing of the illegal miners proves they are not trapped but are simply refusing to resurface.
Mathe said the illegal miners confirmed there are heavily armed men who are guarding them and forcing them to dig for gold.
“They told us the food and water that has been sent down was confiscated by the heavily armed men and not given to the miners. They are keeping it for themselves because they want to continue illegal mining operations,” she said.
Mathe said police operations continue.
More than 1 000 illegal miners have resurfaced in recent weeks after Operation Vala Umgodi was mounted by police in the North West. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 11/25/2024 - 11:34
162 views
Flood Victims Not Welcome, Say Residents
City of Tshwane promises they will be relocated
City of Cape Town condemns intimidation of water debt management staff
City of Cape Town condemns intimidation of water debt management staff
The City of Cape Town has strongly condemned recent incidents of intimidation directed at water debt management staff while they are executing their duties.
This after videos have been circulating on social media, displaying individuals targeting City officials while in the line of duty.
In a statement, the City of Cape Town said these videos spread misinformation about debt management processes, creating confusion and unnecessary division within its communities.
“The City does offer debt relief when residents qualify. However, in certain instances, debt management is required to sustain services. Targeting staff on the field infringes on their rights to a safe work environment and undermines the value of the essential services provided to all residents through the City’s revenue management practices,” the City of Cape Town said.
The statement further explained that some Water and Sanitation staff are tasked with providing comprehensive debt management functions, working alongside the Corporate Revenue Office to collect revenue, implement legally authorised debt collection practices and minimise debt for the City.
The City said debt management is done fairly and transparently, ensuring that all customers continue to have access to Water and Sanitation services.
The City added that it follows a strict response before debt management interventions are implemented, in line with the Credit Control and Debt Collection Policy.
Initially, a warning letter is delivered at the property or emailed to the customer, reflecting the amount due and arrears on the account. Residents are allowed to make representation to the City and enter into payment arrangements.
The City also keeps a record of all communication with a resident in the event that there are claims of no communication from the City to the respective resident.
Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, explained that if residents cannot settle their outstanding water bills in full, they are encouraged to enter into interest-free payment arrangements to avoid restrictions on services.
“Thereafter, if there are arrears on the account and no payment arrangement is in place, water supply is reduced to the free basic allocation of 6kl monthly - it is not completely cut off. A basic quantity of supply is maintained at residential properties until residents can enter into payment arrangements. Staff is available to assist with this process at any of the City’s nearest walk-in centres," Badroodien said.
In instances where debt is being recovered and a resident may not have water at their property after debt interventions have been activated, they are encouraged to alert their local councillor. Badroodien said that these specific cases will be reported for investigation.
“However, staff and contractors have been issued strict instructions to ensure that a property is left with a restricted supply.
“We urge the public to refrain from acts of aggression towards our staff, who are simply doing their jobs. Law enforcement agencies have been engaged and perpetrators of violence or intimidation will face the appropriate legal consequences,” Badroodien said.
To address the misinformation, the City emphasises that:
- The processes carried out by the Debt Management teams aligns with legal and regulatory frameworks.
- Assistance is available for customers in financial distress, including payment plans and indigent relief for qualifying households.
- Any interruptions to services are undertaken as a last resort, after extensive efforts to engage with customers.
“We call on community leaders and residents to verify information from reliable City channels and to not be misled by unverified content on social media. The City remains committed to maintaining open communication and fostering trust with our residents,” Badroodien said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 11/24/2024 - 12:21
52 views
800 Families Share Two “Illegal” Taps
Mfuleni residents have also had to resort to digging holes to bury human waste
Justice Minister welcomes ICC warrants of arrest for Israel, Hamas leaders
Justice Minister welcomes ICC warrants of arrest for Israel, Hamas leaders
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Thembi Simelane, has welcomed the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) issuance of arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and three Hamas leaders.
The ICC’s pretrial chamber issued the warrants on Thursday afternoon.
“This step by the ICC is a vindication of South Africa’s position, which has been canvassed extensively before the International Court of Justice. The international community can no longer ignore the glaring evidence of genocide and systemic violations of international law in Gaza.
“No individual, government official, or even a nation-state is considered to be above the rules established by international laws and conventions. The ICC’s action sends a powerful message that accountability is not optional but a cornerstone of a just and equitable global order,” Simelane said.
The department described the issuance as a “critical moment in addressing decades of impunity surrounding serious violations in Palestine”.
“[The] ICC’s findings provide compelling evidence that both Mr Netanyahu and Mr Gallant intentionally deprived the civilian population of Gaza of essential resources, including food, water, fuel, and medical supplies. Their actions, which obstructed humanitarian aid and exacerbated an already dire humanitarian crisis, constitute serious breaches of international humanitarian law.
“South Africa, alongside other nations, has consistently called for accountability to address the atrocities committed against Palestinians.
“The Minister emphasised that South Africa’s submissions to the ICJ have strengthened the case that the Israeli state’s actions meet the definition of genocide under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.
“This advocacy reflects South Africa’s unwavering commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law,” the department said.
It called on the international community to speak out against the suffering of the Palestinian people.
“As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, South Africa reiterates its call for an immediate ceasefire, the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid, and the commencement of a political process to secure a just and lasting peace in the region.
“The international community cannot turn a blind eye to the ongoing suffering of innocent civilians, including women, children, and humanitarian workers.
“South Africa will continue to advocate for justice for the people of Palestine in all international forums, ensuring that the voices of the oppressed are heard and their rights protected,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 11/22/2024 - 09:14
404 views
City Extends Public Comment Period on Sale of Old Woodstock Hospital
This follows a meeting on Wednesday by Woodstock ratepayers to discuss the City’s intention to sell the site
President Ramaphosa concludes inaugural PICC under 7th administration
President Ramaphosa concludes inaugural PICC under 7th administration
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the seventh administration has prioritised its commitment to scale up investment in infrastructure, as government seeks to boost the economy, create jobs, improve access to basic services, and the quality of life for citizens.
President Ramaphosa said this at the conclusion of the inaugural Presidential Infrastructure Commission Council (PICC) under the seventh administration.
The council convened to discuss, amongst others, a plan on dealing with crime and extortion at construction sites, the level of implementation of priority infrastructure projects and programmes, as well as strategic initiatives that are being developed to accelerate the pace and quality of infrastructure investments in the country.
“This administration has prioritised scaling up investment in infrastructure, as we seek to grow the economy, create more jobs, improve access to basic services, and improve the quality of life of our citizens.
“Continuing the work of the sixth administration, we are working to involve the private sector in achieving our infrastructure development goals. It is encouraging that after a period of declining infrastructure spend, public sector capital expenditure is on the rise for the second straight year.
“According to Statistics South Africa, last year, public sector institutions had a combined capital expenditure of R233 billion. This is an 11% increase on the previous year,” President Ramaphosa said.
The council is constituted by the President, Deputy President, Ministers designated by the President, Premiers of provinces, Executive Mayors of metropolitan councils and the chairperson of the South African Local Government Association.
Per the Infrastructure Development Act, the Council is tasked with, inter alia:
- Coordinating the development, maintenance, implementation and monitoring of the national infrastructure plan;
- Coordinating the determination of priorities for infrastructure development;
- Ensuring that infrastructure development in respect of any strategic integrated project is given priority in planning, approval and implementation;
- Ensuring co-operation between organs of state affected by projects undertaken, and
- Promoting investment and identifying and develop strategies to cause the removal of impediments to investment.
Implementation of Strategic Integrated Projects
The council noted that there are 19 completed Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) valued at R26 billion.
Of these projects, six are in transport, three in water and sanitation, one in energy, four in human settlements and five in student accommodation.
Currently, 82 projects, valued at R437 billion, are in construction.
In addition to providing technical assistance and resources to help project sponsors prepare comprehensive business cases, ensuring they are economically viable and socially beneficial, Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) has played a pivotal role in supporting project sponsors to expedite approvals, authorisations, licences, permissions and exemptions with the relevant authorities.
Over 654 requests for regulatory unblocking were lodged with ISA between 2020 and 2024. To date, 497 approvals have been granted and 157 are currently in progress.
The total project value of SIP projects gazetted between 2020 and 2024 has grown to R3 trillion, with the key drivers being the Eskom Programme (SIP 8, 9 and 10), the Embedded Generation National Programme and the Green Hydrogen National Programme (SIP 20E).
Aiding municipalities
The council agreed that there is a need to enhance the Municipal Infrastructure Service Delivery Model using ISA’s methodology, which emphasises project preparation using the Five-Case Model, which is planning and prioritisation, development of business cases, mobilisation of funds from private and public sectors, implementation of innovative solutions and effective monitoring.
This model will be piloted in four local municipalities and leverage external resources and technical capacity stemming from local and international partners.
The following four municipalities will benefit from the “Adopt a Municipality” pilot initiative: Govan Mbeki Local Municipality in Mpumalanga, Kagisano-Molopo Local Municiapity in the North West, Umngeni Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal and Metsemaholo Local Municipality in the Free State.
This initiative, spearheaded by ISA, will address critical service delivery challenges, including persistent incomplete projects and infrastructure issues. ISA aims to drive urgent improvements over the next 24 months, with some projects being completed during this timeframe. ISA will hold further consultations on the next cohort of municipalities to be added to the initiative.
Crime and Extortion on Construction Sites
The council has lauded the contribution of the construction industry to job growth in the second and third quarters.
According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey released by Statistics South Africa earlier this month, the construction sector added 176 000 jobs, playing a pivotal role in reducing the national unemployment rate by 1.4% in the third quarter.
The council said the construction industry is vital for socio-economic development, employment and infrastructure improvement.
"Crime and extortion on construction sites must be condemned in the strongest possible terms," the council said, while welcoming efforts by the police in addressing criminal and extortion cases.
The council further noted that there is an indication of increasing trends in criminal activities on construction sites, despite government's efforts to embed social facilitation and involve law enforcement. Effective mitigation will require coordinated efforts from all stakeholders.
The council has made the following recommendations on the matter:
- Law enforcement must be allocated more resources to deal with criminal activity and violence on construction sites.
- Policy reforms in the construction sector must be prioritised.
- Industry must adopt best practices in social facilitation and invest in security measures.
- Infrastructure project leads must enhance community engagement and encourage communities to actively participate in project planning.
Programme of Action for the PICC Council in the 7th administration
The PICC Council has identified eight pathways to driving infrastructure investment and growth in the next five years.
These pathways will underpin the infrastructure investment plan of the 7th administration.
The eight pathways include:
Pathway 1: Institutional Coordination
Affirming Infrastructure South Africa as a single point of entry for priority infrastructure projects.
Pathway 2: Centralised Planning and Prioritisation
Establish a gateway mechanism for projects and programme that are deemed strategic/catalytic.
Pathway 3: Budget Reforms
Accelerate the implementation of broader reforms to enable infrastructure investment.
Pathway 4: Address Regulatory Bottlenecks
Streamline regulatory and approval processes to fast-track implementation of infrastructure projects.
Pathway 5: Municipal Bulk Infrastructure
Address funding and financing of municipal bulk infrastructure.
Pathway 6: Unlocking other sources of funding
Increase and diversify sources of funding for both project preparation and infrastructure funding & financing.
Pathway 7: Economic Regulation in Construction
Strengthen regulatory framework governing construction industry.
Pathway 8: Cancellation of Tenders, Social Unrest, Damage to Infrastructure and Crime
Improving governance of infrastructure projects and ensure close collaboration with law enforcement agencies. - SAnews.gov.za
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Fri, 11/22/2024 - 11:01
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