Shacks and Schools Ruined as Storm Ravages Musina
A shack was blown several metres
Water
Opposition to Open Cast Coal Mining in Midvaal
For years residents have been objecting to the Springfield and Vlakfontein mining project
Hazelmere Dam to improve water supply in KZN North Coast
Hazelmere Dam to improve water supply in KZN North Coast
Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, has emphasised the important role the eThekwini Metro, iLembe and KwaDakuza Municipalities in the North Coast have to play in order to ensure the reticulation of water to households.
This follows the commissioning of the world’s highest piano key weir dam, Hazelmere Dam, to improve water supply in the three municipalities.
Majodina commissioned the world’s highest piano key weir [a low dam built across a river to raise the level of water upstream or regulate its flow] dam located in the Mdloti River, KwaZulu-Natal, on Friday.
A piano key weir is a nonlinear, labyrinth-type weir well suited for rehabilitation projects due to a relatively small footprint and the ability to pass large discharge for lesser upstream-head values when compared with other weird types.
The commissioning of the state-of-the-art dam comes after the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) successfully completed a project to raise the dam wall by seven metres to increase storage capacity, and to augment water supply to areas including Verulam, Groutville, Blythedale and Ballito.
Speaking during a community engagement, Majodina emphasised the important role that municipalities have to play in order to ensure the reticulation of water to households.
“The Department of Water and Sanitation upgraded the Hazelmere Dam wall to meet the needs of the increasing population in the North Coast, as it is our role to ensure bulk water supply. The concerned municipalities should now roll up their sleeves to ensure that water is directed to households,” Majodina said.
The North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal has experienced rapid growth in recent years, especially in the housing sector, which resulted in an increased demand for potable water.
Majodina said Hazelmere Dam forms part of the country’s state-of-the-art dams.
“Hazelmere Dam can now be measured against world class standards due the type of spillway selection, technology and innovation used in implementing the project.”
The raising of the dam wall will address water challenges in some parts of the three municipalities.
The project scope of the work includes the raising of the dam wall by seven metres (from 86m to 93.00m); the construction of and retrofitting a piano key weir (PKW) onto an existing dam spillway structure; the installation of 83 rock anchors, as well as foundation grouting and other minor related works.
The dam has an uncontrolled PKW spillway. This was done to ensure that the dam wall withstands extreme concentration of floods of between six and eight hours for the dam catchment area.
Some of the employed technologies undertaken to upgrade the dam wall include the world’s highest piano key weir; the world’s largest anchors were installed to improve stability of the concrete gravity dam wall structure, and the largest capacity post-tensioning stressing jacks were deployed during construction.
The technologies employed also included the use of innovative data management software for real-time monitoring of anchor performance and 3D digital crack meters.
The department said the upgrading of the wall assisted with the creation of employment opportunities for 187 locals, including 16 women and 53 young people.
“The total number of small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) appointed were 11, with two women-owned. In addition, the successful training of 14 engineers took place during the project, with some subsequently obtaining professional registration, marking a significant achievement in capacity building,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 11:33
113 views
Gardener Mauled to Death by Former Lottery Boss’s Guard Dog
Stevens Mabuse, who worked for Phillemon Letwaba, was killed by a pit bull when he came home in the early hours
Government activities for the week 28 October – 01 November 2024
Government activities for the week 28 October – 01 November 2024
On Monday, 28 October, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, will launch an Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) listening tour in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
Also on Monday, Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhauli to deliver an address at the UNDP Just Energy Transition and youth employment roundtable discussion.
On Tuesday, 29 October, Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, will officially launch the Summer Campaign in Bloemfontein at the De Oude Kraal Country Estate, N1 South Bloemfontein.
Also on Tuesday, the Presidential Climate Commission in conjunction with the Department of Water and Sanitation will host a high-level 3 Sector Climate Adaptation Readiness in South Africa’s Water Value Chain Workshop in Pretoria.
On Wednesday, 30 October, Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana will present the 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (“2024 MTBPS”) to Parliament.
On Thursday, 31 October, no confirmed events.
On Friday, 01 November, no confirmed events.
Neo
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 11:02
71 views
Investment in water infrastructure key to growth of economy
Investment in water infrastructure key to growth of economy
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, says with the right investments in water and sanitation infrastructure, the full potential of any region can be unlocked, attracting new businesses, creating jobs, and improving the quality of life.
Mahlobo made the remarks during a business dinner held recently at the Mkhambathini Local Municipality in Camperdown, KwaZulu-Natal.
The business dinner aimed to engage captains of industry on possible investment and expansion, and to discuss and explore the significant opportunities for growth and development in Camperdown.
Mahlobo said water and sanitation services are foundational to the development of any region, and “Mkambathini Local Municipality is no exception”.
He emphasised that these services not only impact public health but also have a direct influence on industrial growth and economic sustainability.
“Reliable access to water is essential for attracting businesses and ensuring that they can operate efficiently. This, in turn, drives job creation and economic activity, which benefits the entire community.
“However, we face significant challenges in ensuring that the demand for treated water can be met, especially given the rapid population growth and the aging infrastructure in certain areas,” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister said there were a few projects that are currently being initiated to assist with water challenges in the region, and these include uMkhomazi Water Project, which has been stalled due to financial constraints.
“This ambitious project, which includes the construction of a dam and extensive pipelines, is expected to increase the amount of available water by 55%, allowing the region to meet the growing demand. While this project is crucial, it comes at a significant cost.
“We are, however, pleased to report that the affordability challenges surrounding this project have been resolved through a blended finance solution approved by National Treasury. This financing arrangement ensures that the project can move forward, and it is expected to be completed by 2030/32,” Mahlobo announced. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 10:24
15 views
Shaggy Sheep, Ice Rats and the Future of Joburg’s Water Supply
Crucial wetlands in the Lesotho Highlands are in trouble
Food poisoning incidents not related to school nutrition programme
Food poisoning incidents not related to school nutrition programme
The Department of Basic Education says it is concerned at the increasing reports of food poisoning involving children of school-going age.
“These incidents of food poisoning have disrupted teaching and learning as the majority of the cases affected learners during school hours. As a result, school time has been directed towards assisting the affected learners with medical attention,” the Department of Basic Education said in a statement.
In addition, the psycho-social impact of such incidents continues to have negative effects on both the learners and teachers.
The department said schools and communities in general are places where young children should feel and be safe.
“In all the cases the learners have consumed items bought from vendors and spaza shops in and around schools. The Department of Basic Education appreciates the work being done by various government departments and other organs of state to address the matter,” the department said.
It said although some media reports have incorrectly attributed the food poisoning incidents to the National School Nutrition Programme, no evidence has been found in this regard.
The National School Nutrition Programme is a key government programme aligned with the National Development Plan 2030 to address hunger, malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies.
“It is a key pillar of Care and Support for Teaching and Learning (CSTL) that seeks to address barriers to teaching and learning, to enhance the learning capacity and give access to education for learners in targeted public primary, secondary and identified special schools.
“The programme provides nutritious meals to 9.7 million learners on school days. The total budget is R9.8 billion allocated for the 2024/25 financial year,” the department said.
The department emphasised that there is strict adherence to five basic hygiene practices which are:
- Keep clean,
- Separate cooked and raw food,
- Cook thoroughly,
- Keep food at a safe temperature, and
- Use safe water and raw materials.
“With the use of these basic principles the system is able to provide safe healthy meals to more than nine million learners daily without an incident that threatens lives,” it said.
According to the department, the media reports highlight a greater number of allegations that hundreds of school children suffer from food poisoning and increased incidents of hospitalisation.
“It must be made clear that many incidents experienced relate to food items bought through informal vendors. The other major factor is that school camps, tuck shops or vendors do not align with NSNP food basket and guidelines due to shifted area of responsibility.
“In order to address this, the School Governing Body and School Management Teams should play a leading role in ensuring that healthy food snacks and beverages are sold to learners,” the department said.
While the school has no jurisdiction over the street vendors, the school community should make an effort to keep a database of individuals selling food and beverage items on or near the school premises.
“This means that the entire community where the school is located should take responsibility for the wellbeing of its children, especially if the items consumed are sold outside school premises.
“The school should offer to hold meetings with school-based tuck shop operators on the nutritional value of different products being sold.”
The department urged parents, guardians and caregivers to be on high alert and to monitor the food items children consume and most importantly to verify the source of such items.
It conveyed condolences to the families of the children who have passed away as a result of consuming poisoned food items.
Communities are encouraged to report suspected cases of poisoning to the municipality and the South African Consumer Goods and Services Ombudsman on 0800 029 999. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 10/27/2024 - 11:46
58 views
Only One Bridge Links Kwanobuhle to Kariega After Floods
Two bridges in the area were damaged
R66-Million Spent on Water Schemes but These Villagers’ Taps Are Still Dry
Yet water projects in Ngcobo are signed off as completed and successful
Job loss births passionate farmer
Job loss births passionate farmer
By Sihle Manda
After losing her job as a sales representative at a furniture store, Collien Khawula from the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal was forced to re-discover her passion for farming.
Despite many challenges since then, it is a decision she has yet to regret.
Khawula is the director of Tumies Enterprise, a mixed farm in Malangeni, in Umdoni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.
The business farms in poultry, vegetables, as well as a thriving nursery. It produces onion, carrot, cabbage, spinach, lettuce, green pepper and beetroot.
“I started in 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown. I lost my job and decided to start something that didn’t require a lot of capital, as long as you have a bit of land and seeds. I wanted to be independent and not depend on others to survive,” she said.
The journey, however, has not been without its challenges. These ranged from self-doubt to a lack of financial resources.
Tumies Enterprise also had to contend with water shortages in the area.
“We need a lot of water to farm but we are struggling. It doesn’t help that we don’t have water tankers or pumps,” she said.
Despite these challenges, she is grateful for the ongoing technical assistance and training she often receives from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
The Department often assists the business with ploughing implements, fencing, seeds and fertilisers.
In early 2024, she received R50 000 during an entrepreneur development programme pitching competition by Raiz Corp and Illovo Sugar, Africa's largest sugar producer.
“The money has come in handy, especially for office equipment. If you want to be professional, your paperwork needs to be in order.”
Khawula added that she has plans to apply for government support to grow her business. The business, which employs four people, supplies its produce to local restaurants and markets in the area.
She explained that she has prospects to grow her business but is unable to due to lack of space. While she has two four-hectare farms in two of her rural homes, she is unable to utilise them because it is too far from the central business district and she does not have her own transport. Instead, she farms on various smaller plots to produce her vegetables.
“My wish is to move to a bigger farm in one space. I don’t have land of my own close to the CBD so, I rely on the generosity of people to offers me parcels of land for farming,” she said.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Fri, 10/25/2024 - 10:35
153 views
FTSEZ Accelerates Industrialization in South Africa
The Fetakgomo Tubatse Special Economic Zone (FTSEZ) in South Africa has joined the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy conference – taking place November 4-8, 2024 - as a bronze sponsor. With a vision to become a globally-recognized center of excellence for sustainable solutions in mineral beneficiation, the FTSEZ integrates energy and mining projects to advance industrialization. AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 supports this goal by offering a platform for dialogue and deal-signing.
The FTSEZ currently has 10 investment and development partners, with 8 projects in the pipeline. The Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism allocated R35 million for the development of various projects as part of the industrial zone in the financial year 2021/2022, with the funding continuing to support project development. At AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024, representatives from the FTSEZ will outline project progress and future investment opportunities.
AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit http://www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
The FTSEZ is a multi-faceted industrial hub that is poised to benefit over one million people in the Limpopo province of South Africa. As an industrial cluster, the zone integrates the upstream and downstream mineral value chains with associated energy projects, offering a centralized hub for mineral beneficiation. In the mining and mineral beneficiation sector, the FTSEZ comprises fuel cell plants, a platinum refinery, stainless steel magnetite processing plants as well as facilities to manufacture fabricated metal products. The industrial zone also features manufacturing facilities such as machinery, rubber products and mining equipment and components.
To support mining operations within the province, the FTSEZ is developing a pipeline of energy projects. Aimed at providing a clean and affordable source of power, these projects comprise solar, battery storage, biodiesel and hydrogen facilities. This diverse offering not only supports mining activities across the entire value chain but underscores how the integration of various sources of energy can support economic growth and industrialization in Africa.
Beyond energy projects, the FTSEZ features various water, road and rail projects. Completed projects include the R70 million Steelpoort Wastewater Treatment Works project and the R65 million Steelpoort Water Treatment project – the latter of which has plans to increase treatment capacity. Projects under construction include the R121 million upgrade to the Ga-Malekana Water Treatment facility; the R2 billion construction of the R37 and R555 main roads; the Steelpoort railway sliding development; the R1.6 million Regional External Master Plan; the R70 million Steel Bridge upgrade; and the SEZ human settlement scoping report. To date, the technical stage for the Ga-Malekana Water Treatment project has been approved.
“The development of industrial zones such as FTSEZ will not only provide a centralized location for mining operations in South Africa but integrate various other segments of the economy. FTSEZ is a testament to how merging key sectors such as energy, mining and agro-processing can drive economic growth and industrialization. By adopting similar development plans, other countries in Africa can fuel the development of various industries while creating jobs and boosting skills development,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 provides an opportunity for potential investors and project developers to engage with FTSEZ representatives. Through the zone's bronze sponsorship, FTSEZ will provide an overview of major projects, potential expansion opportunities and strategies for replicating the zone in other provinces.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
DWS inspects water infrastructure in North West
DWS inspects water infrastructure in North West
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo will today assess the conditions of water and waste water treatment infrastructure in the North West following the recent detection of the cholera causing bacterium in raw water.
The Deputy Minister will begin his programme by meeting with various stakeholders at the Lekwa-Teemane Council Chambers in Bloemhof. He will then proceed to site inspection visits at Bloemhof Dam, Christiana Waste Water Treatment Works and the Bloemhof Water Treatment Works.
“The Deputy Minister will meet different stakeholders and the Executive Mayors of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Francis Baard and Pixley ka Seme District Municipalities to assess their progress in implementing recommendations made by the department to comply with the required standards of effluent before it is discharged into water courses.
“He will also assess the conditions of the water treatment works and waste water treatment plants in Bloemhof and Christiana, under Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said.
The department recently issued a warning about the presence of cholera bacteria in raw water along the Harts and Vaal rivers following a routine raw water sampling at five monitoring sites, namely, Wentzel dam, Schweizer Reneke, Christiana, Barkley West Caravan Park, and Douglas Weir.
The presence of environmental non-toxic cholera (Vibrio cholerae) has also been confirmed at Wentzel Dam in Harts River near Schweizer Reneke and Pampierstad.
The department has identified the possible pollution sources to be from the discharge of wastewater treatment works effluent into the rivers.
Seitlholo will also release the latest report following the tests that were conducted at the water courses. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 10/24/2024 - 10:05
409 views
Gender equality remains key in climate change adaptation
Gender equality remains key in climate change adaptation
Government has affirmed its commitment to addressing gender equality in relation to women being disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change through policy, legislation and action.
Addressing the Climate Change Adaptation and Gender Mainstreaming Dialogue in Pretoria, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, said the increased burden on women necessitates that government makes gender equality a central tenet of the climate change strategies.
“Our National Climate Change Response White Paper explicitly recognises the special needs and circumstances of rural women, who are among the hardest hit by climate change.
“Gender mainstreaming is not just a theoretical concept but a practical necessity. It means integrating gender considerations into all aspects of climate change adaptation strategies, policies, and programmes.
“By doing so, we ensure that the unique experiences and contributions of women are not only recognised but are also harnessed in ways that promote sustainable development,” the Deputy Minister said on Wednesday.
She said the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) acknowledges the vital role of women in environmental management.
“However, we must do more than just acknowledge: we must act! It is through inclusive approaches that we can begin to build resilience, reduce vulnerabilities, and address the inequalities that climate change exacerbates.
“While we have made progress in establishing gender-sensitive policies, the challenge lies in effectively implementing these policies on the ground. We must continue to share best practices, success stories, and innovative approaches that have worked in different sectors and regions,” Swarts said.
The Deputy Minister noted that gender inequality has long been a global issue.
“Despite efforts to address these inequalities through international frameworks like the United Nations Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the reality is that many women, especially in developing nations, remain disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change.
“Women, particularly those in rural areas, are among the most vulnerable when climate disasters strike. They often face greater challenges accessing resources such as water and food due to droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events,” Swarts said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 10/23/2024 - 13:06
278 views
Eastern Cape Village Still Without Water 30 Years Since Democracy
Residents in Lugada walk far distances to collect water from a wellpoint
Families Evacuated From Their Flooded Homes in Nelson Mandela Bay
Municipality says mop up and damage assessment operations are underway
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality cautions against spread of mpox
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality cautions against spread of mpox
With the 2024 festive season looming, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has urged residents to remain vigilant against the spread of mpox disease which broke out in South African earlier this year.
The metro said that on receiving the news about the outbreak, the municipality, working together with the Eastern Cape Department of Health and private health care facilities conducted investigations on suspected cases.
Clinical investigations confirmed that by October 2024, no mpox cases had been recorded in the metro.
“However, with the festive season looming and travelling expected to be at peak season, the metro urges residents to remain vigilant and present themselves for examination to their nearest health facility should they experience mpox related symptoms,” the municipality said.
Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the Monkeypox virus an enveloped double-stranded DNA virus of the Orthopoxviral genus.
Anyone can get mpox as it can spread through contact with infected people through touch, kissing, or sex or through contaminated needles, among others.
Pregnant people may also pass the virus on to their unborn baby.
“Although no cases have been recorded in the Bay area, as the city we believe knowledge is power. It is for this reason that we wish to urge our residents to remain vigilant and present themselves for examination to their nearest health facilities should they experience mpox related symptoms,” the municipality said.
In September, the Department of Health called for continued public vigilance as the country recorded another laboratory-confirmed mpox case.
This increased the total number of positive cases recorded in the country since the outbreak in May this year to 25 cases, including three deaths.
READ | SA records another mpox case
Mpox causes signs and symptoms
Mpox signs and symptoms usually begin within a week but can start between 1–21 days after exposure.
Symptoms typically last 2–4 weeks but may last longer in someone with a weakened immune system.
Common symptoms of mpox are rash, fever, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, swollen lymph nodes.
For some people, the first symptom of mpox is a rash, while others may have different symptoms first.
The rash begins as a flat sore which develops into a blister filled with liquid and may be itchy or painful. As the rash heals, the lesions dry up, crust over, and fall off.
Some people may have one or a few skin lesions and others have hundreds or more. These can appear anywhere on the body such as the palms of hands and soles of feet, face, mouth and throat, groin and genital areas and the anus.
Children, pregnant people, and people with weak immune systems are at risk for complications from mpox. Some people can be infected without developing any symptoms.
People with mpox can become very sick, for example, the skin can become infected with bacteria leading to abscesses or serious skin damage.
Other complications include pneumonia, corneal infection with loss of vision; pain or difficulty swallowing, vomiting and diarrhoea causing severe dehydration or malnutrition; sepsis (infection of the blood with a widespread inflammatory response in the body), inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), heart (myocarditis), rectum (proctitis), genital organs (balanitis) or urinary passages (urethritis), or death.
People with immune suppression due to medication or medical conditions are at higher risk of serious illness and death due to mpox.
Most people with mpox usually recover within 2–4 weeks.
Some things to do to help the symptoms and prevent infecting others:
- Stay home and in your own room if possible (isolation).
- Wash hands often with soap and water or hand sanitizer, especially before or after touching sores.
- Wear a mask and cover lesions when around other people until your rash heals.
- Keep skin dry and uncovered (unless in a room with someone else).
- Avoid touching items in shared spaces and disinfect shared spaces frequently.
- Use saltwater rinses for sores in the mouth.
- Take over-the-counter medications for pain.
- Hair clippers and similar contact equipment in salons to be thoroughly sterilised after each customer.
- Body piercing and tattooing equipment in tattoo parlours to be thoroughly sterilised after each customer. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/22/2024 - 13:15
233 views
SAWS warns of disruptive rain, severe thunderstorms
SAWS warns of disruptive rain, severe thunderstorms
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal will experience disruptive rain while severe thunderstorms are likely to occur in the Free State, North West as well as the Northern Cape.
“A cut-off low pressure system, surface trough and ridging high will result in scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers resulting in flooding in places,” said SAWS.
A surface high pressure south of the land will feed in a deep layer of moisture over the Eastern Cape, resulting in heavy downpours along the southeast coast between Cape St Francis and Port St Johns where the highest amounts of rainfall are expected between Monday evening and Tuesday afternoon.
The latest models are increasing rainfall along the south coast.
READ | Disruptive rain warning for Eastern Cape
The impact of the disruptive rain includes flooding of settlements (formal/informal), roads, and bridges, damage to infrastructure as well as difficult and dangerous driving conditions due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.
Some areas could be cut-off due to flooded roads.
“Disruptive rainfall is expected associated with a cut-off low move over the Eastern Cape, while a surface high pressure south of the land feeds in a deep layer of moisture over the province. The Koukamma, Dr Beyers Naude, Blue Crane Route, Makana, Raymond Mhlaba LMs will be affected from Monday into Tuesday evening,” SAWS said.
This might result in flooding of roads and settlements, danger to life, disruption to essential services, communities temporarily cut-off and damage to roads and bridges.
meanwhile, KwaZulu-Natal is on Monday expected to experience widespread showers and rain is expected over the south-eastern parts of the province.
“Some good rainfall amounts north of 50mm have been observed with Mount Edgecombe standing out with 146mm. As rainfall is still falling in some parts in the south-east, this may lead to flooding of roads and settlements, damage to infrastructure and mud-based houses,” SAWS said.
The province has been warned of the likelihood of flooding of roads, bridges and settlements (formal and informal), danger to life (fast flowing streams/deep waters), major disruption of traffic flow due to major roads being flooded, disruption to essential services (Water, electricity, communication, etc) as well as damage to mud-based houses.
“Conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms resulting heavy downpours with possible rainfall amount in excess of 40mm expected over the Free State, central and western parts of the North West, and the north eastern parts of the Northern Cape on Monday. These conditions are accompanied by strong damaging winds, excessive lightning and hail,” SAWS said.
These conditions are expected to result in flooding of roads, settlements and low-lying areas. This may lead to the closure of some bridges and roads Injuries and danger to life.
Furthermore, the impacts could include damage or loss of infrastructure, settlements (formal and informal), property, vehicles, livelihood and livestock, falling of trees and possible injuries due to flying debris as well as disruption of municipal and other essential services (power supply).
There could also be major travel disruptions (including route obstructions) and accidents.
On Tuesday, Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga could experience severe thunderstorms.
“Thunderstorms are expected to develop over Gauteng, the Highveld of Mpumalanga and the western Bushveld of Limpopo tomorrow resulting in heavy downpours (widely 15-25mm with isolated areas receiving up to 30mm and strong to damaging winds.
These conditions may lead to minor impacts.
These include localised damage to informal houses or structures, disruption of services due to power surges and localized flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges.
“Given these potential impacts, it is essential to stay informed and monitor weather warnings from the South African Weather Service throughout this period to ensure preparedness and safety.
“The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to this weather system and will issue subsequent updates as required,” SAWS said.
Furthermore, the public is urged and encouraged to regularly follow weather forecasts on television and radio. -SAnews.gov.za
Updated information in this regard will regularly be available at www.weathersa.co.za as well as via the SA Weather Service X account at @SAWeatherServic. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 10/21/2024 - 15:32
43 views
Seitlholo conducts inspection of Vaalharts Main Canal
Seitlholo conducts inspection of Vaalharts Main Canal
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seitlholo has conducted a site inspection of the Vaalharts Main Canal in Hartswater in the Northern Cape following the drowning of a 13-year-old boy.
The body of the child was retrieved on Thursday between Magogong and Taung, about 20 kilometres away.
The Vaalharts Main Canal stretches about 140 kilometres from the Vaal River at Warrenton in the Northern Cape, passing through the towns of Jan Kempdorp, Hartswater, Magogong, Taung and ends at the Pudimoe Water Treatment Works in Pudimoe, which ultimately treat and transfer potable water to Vryburg in the North West.
The canal is part of the Vaalharts Water Scheme which has about 1200 kilometres of canals managed by the Water User Association (WUA), of which the Vaalharts Main Canal is the longest and largest.
READ | Public warned against swimming in water canals
During his visit on Saturday, the Deputy Minister met with the Vaalharts WUA, Phokwane Municipality to address safety concerns around the canal, before visiting the family of the child in Bonita Park informal settlement.
“I’m concerned by the consistent incidents of drowning in this community. We’ve engaged consistently with the Water User Association on what we can do as a department to prevent future incidents of drowning. The WUA is currently undergoing a process of capacity building and have identified volunteers that are currently on training on how to behave around water and have taken the programme to schools.
“We hope we will have individuals within a radius that will be able to respond quickly to incidents of drowning.”
“Fencing is unfortunately not a sustainable solution to the current state of the canal as far as curbing future incidents of drowning. The department conducted the decommissioning of the fencing when the fence around the canals was stolen. I visited the family to send personal condolences on behalf of the Department of Water and Sanitation. As government, we have a responsibility to show families that we do care and to explain why we cannot fence these canals. Our sincere condolences go out to the family and the community of Bonita Park. No parent should bury a child.”
He added that education drives will continue.
“We will continue with efforts to educate communities that are living around canals about safety so that they desist from using these canals for recreational purposes,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Mon, 10/21/2024 - 11:04
69 views
Donkey Carts Stand Idle as Tourism Dies in Cederberg Village
Heuningvlei was devastated by flooding for two consecutive years but the residents are determined to keep their town alive
Alarming rise in HIV
Needle programs are officially supported, but the state often obstructs them
KZN Villagers Use Social Grants to Fix Broken Taps, Pipes and Pumps
Ndatshana residents say they were without running water for seven years
Citizens urged to change behaviour towards water usage
Citizens urged to change behaviour towards water usage
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has reiterated a call for continuous action from all citizens to secure the country’s scarce resource through a change of behaviour towards water usage.
The department noted that South Africa is a water-scarce country and that water resources are under immense pressure due to climate change effects.
To further worsen the situation, the department said South Africans currently consume more water per capita at approximately 218 litres per day than the world average of approximately 173 litres per day, while Gauteng is sitting at 266 per capita per day.
“This means we are using more water than the required average and that is unsustainable. The demand-supply relationship for treated water in Gauteng is very tight and the system is vulnerable to disruptions now because there is no reserve supply capacity in the system due to high demand.
The DWS called on all citizens to contribute to saving water, emphasising that living in a water-scarce region means that “we all must use water wisely [and] water conservation is essential and can be done by everyone.”
“Finding and fixing water leaks is an essential part of reducing water wastage in our homes, businesses, sports clubs, schools, places of worship and everywhere else in our communities. We call on communities to follow restrictions put in place by your respective municipalities, and to use water with caution and reduce consumption.”
Enforcing bylaws on water restrictions
The department also called on Gauteng municipalities to implement strict water restrictions and enforce municipal bylaws to those who do not comply to water restrictions.
“Level 1 restrictions prohibit irrigation of gardens with sprinklers and hosepipes between 6am and 6pm; filling of swimming pools; and washing of paving areas and driveways with hosepipes.”
If high demand continues, the department said municipalities should implement higher levels of restrictions, including educating residents and communicating the benefits of conserving water, as well as the dangers of wasting it.
“Repair leaks and burst pipes timeously to reduce quantities of water lost, attend to illegal connections, and maintain water infrastructure to ensure reliability and sustainability. Residents, repairing leaking pipes in your property is your responsibility [and] by law, leaks should be repaired quickly, and this will also save you money,” the department explained.
Water saving tips
The department has provided some of the tips on how communities can further implement small-scale changes to save water in households, schools, parks, churches, industrial buildings, government buildings.
These are:
• Keep the taps turned off when not in use.
• Turn off your tap while brushing your teeth and only turn on when it is time to rinse (and where possible, rather use a tumbler).
• When boiling water, kettles should not be filled to the brim but with just enough water for your needs.
• Wash your veggies in a bowl instead of under running water, then use the water to flush your toilet or water your plants.
• Only run the washing machine and dishwasher when you have a full load.
• Take a shower of five minutes or less.
• Do not use a hosepipe to wash your car but instead use a bucket of water.
• Do not rinse dishes under a running tap.
• Regularly check and fix leaking taps, pipes and toilets.
• Do not use hosepipes to clean on paved areas but rather use a broom to sweep.
• Water your garden either in the early morning or late in the afternoon.
• Avoid flushing toilets unnecessarily.
• Invest on rainwater harvesting system and use the water for water gardens, car washing and cleaning of paving etc.
• Promote plantation of drought-resistant trees and plants as these can thrive even without irrigation.
• Make an effort to educate the people around you on why you think saving water is important.
Tips on how to conserve water in industries
• Minimise unnecessary water use in exterior landscaping. Instead of choosing lawns that require regular watering, consider using decorative landscaping rocks to fill the space so that you can cut down on water use.
• Prioritise maintenance, cleaning and repair of water-using equipment to avoid leaks.
• Replace high-volume spray hoses with water-conserving models.
• The best way to conserve water is to recycle and reuse it.
“Mzansi, by making these simple changes, you can help save water. Saving water is part of our responsibility,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 13:36
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SA must enhance agricultural productivity to achieve Zero Hunger
SA must enhance agricultural productivity to achieve Zero Hunger
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says to achieve ‘Zero Hunger’, the country must enhance agricultural productivity and ensure equitable access to nutritious food.
“This involves investing in sustainable farming practices, empowering smallholder farmers and promoting local food systems,” the Minister said on Friday.
Addressing the 5th International Social Justice Conference and 6th Social Justice Summit -- held at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town -- Ntshavheni said by supporting farmers, the country can boost food production and create jobs, fostering both economic growth and community resilience.
The start of the 5th International Social Justice Conference on 16 October coincided with World Food Day, an international day celebrated every year worldwide to commemorate the date of the founding of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation in 1945.
Ntshavheni underscored the importance of promoting sustainable farming methods that enhance productivity, while protecting natural resources.
“We must forge partnerships across government, the private sector and civil society, including academia, to create comprehensive strategies that tackle food insecurity,” she said, adding that collaboration is key if South Africa is to attain the goal of Zero Hunger.
Zero Hunger is Goal 2 of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is about creating a world free of hunger. The global issue of hunger and food insecurity has shown a sharp increase since 2015, a trend exacerbated by a combination of factors including the COVID-19 pandemic, conflict, climate change and deepening inequalities.
According to the United Nations (UN), by 2022, approximately 735 million people – or 9.2% of the world’s population – found themselves in a state of chronic hunger – a staggering rise compared to 2019.
Ntshavheni said practices like crop rotation, agroforestry and organic farming can increase resilience against climate change and reduce reliance on chemical inputs.
“Supporting smallholder farmers through training and access to technology can empower communities and boost local food production. It is therefore important and significant that universities like Stellenbosch are deeply involved in this initiative.
“It would be important for us in government to explore opportunities to partner with institutions of higher learning on this initiative in order to extend awareness to communities in rural areas of our country that are daily confronted with food insecurity.
“This must make us understand the urgency to develop sound drought resilience and water conservation plans,” the Minister said.
The 6th Social Justice Summit was hosted by the Centre for Social Justice, based at Stellenbosch University.
Striving for food security
In 2014, government introduced the National Policy on Food and Nutrition Security, followed by the National Food and Nutrition Security Implementation Plan (NFNSIP), whose implementation involved multiple government departments and entities, with various interventions receiving support from local and international development partners.
“We are now in the process of developing the NFNSIP (2024 -2030) as we chase the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision 2030 goals. We are not only calling for a partnership in the [NFNSIP] development but with its implementation, as our country focuses on achieving the overdue SDG on Zero Hunger.
“Our policy approach to Zero Hunger acknowledges the lingering consequences of apartheid, which has left deep-rooted inequalities in access to land, income, and employment and other economic opportunities,” the Minister said.
Ntshavheni said as the country’s population growth and climate change intensifies, the urgency of food security cannot be overstated.
Ntshavheni said hunger on its own is a multifaceted challenge that affects the economy, health system and social fabric in general.
Addressing the conference, Electricity and Energy Deputy Minister Samantha Jane Graham said the issue of energy affordability remains a challenge, as the nation navigates the challenge of the accessibility of food prices.
Graham said her office is committed to finding innovative and sustainable solutions for energy sources. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 14:39
129 views