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Gauteng features more sweet-scented and bright yellow flowers this year, heralding the end of winter and welcoming the start of spring. These flowers will also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies in the province, helping to create a healthy and vibrant ecosystem. This is all thanks to the efforts of Emira Property Fund (JSE: …
The march was led by Abahali baseMjondolo
We often hear about our guts as our second brains, so where do our hearts fit in? What’s beautiful about medicine today is that we are beginning to acknowledge and understand ourselves as small, interconnected universes, rather than seeing ourselves through the patriarchal lens that compartmentalised each organ system from the next one. Your heart …
The Limpopo's permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will, together with their provincial counterparts, conduct inspection in loco to incomplete, delayed, or abandoned infrastructure projects under Lephalale, Thabazimbi and Mogalakwena local municipalities from Tuesday to Thursday.
These oversight visits form part of the NCOP's flagship National Provincial Week programme marked under the theme: Confronting the challenges facing the timely delivery of viable public infrastructure to communities.
On Tuesday, the programme will begin with presentations on the state of provincial and municipal infrastructure through a hybrid meeting at the Lephalale Local Municipality offices located at the corner of Joe Slovo and Douwater roads in Lephalale.
The following are expected to brief the permanent delegates together with Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs): The Premier; MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure; MEC for Co-operative Government, Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs; Mayors of Waterberg District Municipality as well as Lephalale, Thabazimbi and Mogalakwena local municipalities; South African Local Government Association, the Auditor-General and the Department of Water and Sanitation.
In the afternoon, the permanent delegates and MPLs will then conduct inspection in loco to housing and water projects in Marapong and Thabo Mbeki townships.
On Wednesday, 18 September 2024, they will visit the Northam's wastewater treatment plant, water reticulation upgrading project and internal roads in Ward 8, as well as the housing project at the Regorogile Extension 8 in Ward 9.
On Thursday, they will proceed to a road project at R572 between Tomburke and Swartwater; as well as water boreholes in Taolome, Van Wyk's span and Ga-Masipa Village; Waterberg Nursing College and Valtyn Moshate Local Stadium.
The programme will then be concluded on Friday with a report back session on the state of provincial infrastructure and progress in confronting the challenges facing the timely delivery of viable public infrastructure to communities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Infrastructure maintenance placed under the spotlight
Thorough infrastructure maintenance to ensure sustainable water supply to residents of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality came under the spotlight at a meeting between Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seithlolo and municipal councillors.
Seithlolo made the call during a meeting with municipal councillors, held in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, on Friday.
The engagement comes after Seitlholo accepted an invitation from municipal councillors to discuss some of the ongoing issues that have been affecting the wards.
These include ongoing water challenges affecting some parts of the municipality, which are exacerbated by ageing infrastructure, rapid urbanisation, floods, theft, and vandalism of water infrastructure.
During the meeting, councillors raised concerns of sewer spillages in the communities, which cause health hazards and water pollution that end up affecting recreational facilities including the beaches in the city.
Seitlholo called on the municipality to address issues that affect water delivery services to communities and the travel sector.
In addition to infrastructure maintenance, he also encouraged the municipality to conduct a full investigation into illegal connections.
“I therefore call on the municipality to be committed on issues of water and sanitation. Municipalities should improve on their investigations related to the issues so that they can be resolved,” Seitlholo said.
He assured the municipality of further provincial visits and engagements, to ensure tangible changes pertaining to water and sanitation challenges.
The Deputy Minister also held a meeting with Umhlanga Tourism Association (UTA) to discuss issues relating to water and sanitation affecting the tourism hub in the Umhlanga area. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 09/16/2024 - 09:55
Municipalities called to prepare for Lesotho water project shutdown
Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, has called on all the affected municipalities in the Free State to expedite plans to continue to provide water to during the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel shutdown in the next two weeks.
The LHWP tunnel will undergo maintenance from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025.
The Minister engaged with the Executive Mayors of Thabo Mofutsanyana and Fezile Dabi District Municipalities in Bethlehem on Saturday.
Majodina was accompanied by Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, Deputy Minister of Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation Seiso Mohai, and Free State MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Saki Mokoena.
Majodina noted that during the outage, there will be no water deliveries from Lesotho to South Africa.
“It is therefore important for municipalities to ensure that water security measures are maintained and various water enforcements mechanisms like water restrictions are applied by the municipalities.
“Although some municipalities are still lagging behind in terms of their readiness, we as the department, are giving them the support that they need,” Majodina said.
The six-months shutdown will jointly be undertaken by the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA, which operates and maintains Lesotho section of the LHWP tunnel system, and the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) responsible for operation and maintenance of the section within South Africa.
The tunnel system requires general inspections and repair works to be conducted at approximately five year intervals to ensure the integrity and reliability of the entire water tunnel system.
Due to the tunnel shutdown, 700 million m3 per annum will be transferred in 2024, resulting in a shortfall of 80 million m3 from the normal annual transfer volume.
However, the Department of Water and Sanitation has embarked on relief interventions for municipalities along the Caledon River, Wilge River, Vaal River and Rhenoster River.
The interventions include the upgrading of water treatment works, upgrading of raw water pumps, upgrading of abstraction works, the construction of new reservoirs as well as the development of groundwater resources by drilling and equipping boreholes.
Majodina noted that while all these projects are under way, some of the municipalities are behind schedule with the implementation of the projects.
“Where necessary, the Department of Water and Sanitation will intervene to support the municipalities to complete the projects which are critical in ensuring sustainable water supply to communities during the tunnel system shutdown,” Majodina said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 09/15/2024 - 11:40
Gauteng commended for tackling water challenges head on
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has commended Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s bold steps towards tackling the province’s water challenges head on.
This comes after the Gauteng Councillors' Imbizo held in Boksburg, east of Johannesburg on Friday.
The event aimed to address the pressing issues of water security in the province’s municipalities, caused mainly by a constant population growth which has negatively impacted on infrastructure and water supply management issues within the municipalities.
Mahlobo, who addressed the event, highlighted the pivotal role water plays in social transformation and economic development.
He warned that neglecting water infrastructure and the management of water supply not only hinders progress but also poses significant water security threat to the province.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that Gauteng has faced ongoing water supply challenges due to increased water demand by the residents.
“Alarmingly, there is no municipality within the province that has achieved a consistent 100% or 99% water supply to its citizens without disruptions. We cannot allow the situation to continue because water will become an impediment to social transformation and economic growth and can also become a security threat within the province,” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister stressed the necessity of a collective mindset shift regarding water management and its conservation within the province, pointing out that the behaviour exhibited by most domestic and institutional water users reflects a concerning lack of awareness about the sustenance of water as a finite and vital resource.
Mahlobo urged councillors not to allow the decision makers to deter their goal of ensuring service delivery in their communities.
“Councillors are in a unique position to engage with their communities and to raise awareness about water conservation, and advocate for necessary infrastructure changes. I hope that when you conclude your sessions in this Imbizo, you will have a different attitude towards matters of water supply and you will handle water and sanitation issues differently," Mahlobo said.
The Imbizo served not only as a platform for sharing concerns but also as a springboard for actionable solutions.
Mahlobo identified several key strategies, which include loss of water due to infrastructure decay, to address the water challenges facing Gauteng.
He highlighted fixing sewer spillages and ensuring that sewage systems are operating efficiently as crucial to ensure sustainable water availability and its management.
Mahlobo's approach also laid the groundwork for sustainable long-term water management practices.
“Residents and municipalities must adopt a practice that promotes responsible water consumption, which can help alleviate pressures on the existing water supply. Moreover, technology should be integrated to monitor and safeguard water infrastructure, and this can enhance management efforts and prevent future crisis,” Mahlobo said.
During the Imbizo, councillors from various municipalities got an opportunity to voice their concerns regarding water and sanitation issues.
Councillor Mariana Kruger from Ward 12 in Midvaal Local Municipality commended Rand Water for their substantial contributions toward improving water supply and emphasised the importance of collaboration between local government and water entities.
"We must maintain an open communication and contact with our counterparts to ensure effective water supply and sanitation services," Kruger said.
The Deputy Minister’s call for a change in relationship dynamics surrounding water management can empower local leaders to take initiatives that prioritise water security for their residents. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 09/15/2024 - 11:01
SIU to investigate maladministration within Transnet, municipalities
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will investigate allegations of serious maladministration at Transnet, including the reinstatement of the former CEO of Transnet Freight Rail Siyabonga Gama.
This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed proclamations 181, 182, 183 and 184 of 2024, authorising the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration within Transnet, the Gauteng Provincial Department of Human Settlement, the Umzumbe Local Municipality, and Masilonyana Local Municipality and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State.
Proclamation 184 of 2024
Proclamation 184 of 2024 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration related to Siyabonga Gama's reinstatement as Chief Executive Officer of Transnet Freight Rail in February 2011 and the payment of Gama’s legal costs following his reinstatement.
This includes any unauthorised, irregular, or wasteful expenditure incurred by Transnet concerning these matters.
“SIU is also authorised to probe allegations of serious maladministration in the procurement of or contracting for goods, works, or services of leased accommodation by Transnet and payments made about it in a manner that examines explicitly whether Transnet officials or agents acted corruptly or unduly to benefit themselves or others, leading to unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses for Transnet,” SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago said.
Kganyago said the SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditures incurred by or losses suffered by Transnet or the state about the contract for security services related to cable theft and preventing criminal activities against Transnet Freight Rail.
The contract was awarded to Abalozi Security Risk Advisory Services (Pty) Limited (formerly known as General Nyanda Security Advisory Services (Pty) Limited).
“The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 January 2007 and 13 September 2024, as well as any related activities before 1 January 2007 and after the date of the Proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts,” Kganyago said.
Proclamation 183 of 2024
Proclamation 183 of 2024 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of maladministration in procuring seven contracts at the Umzumbe Local Municipality in the KwaZulu-Natal Province.
The tenders under scrutiny include the construction of the Umzumbe municipal offices; rehabilitation of the Qwabe, Cabhane, Mabheleni, Magabha, Sgananda and Ndletshe Roads; construction of Isipofu Access Road; construction work at the Ntelezi Msani Heritage Centre; construction of the Nkanini Indoor Sports Centre; construction of the Ntatshana Access Road and bridge; and the three-year Electrification Turnkey Project (2015 to 2018), by or on behalf of the municipality.
“The SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by the municipality or the State. The investigation will also cover any unlawful or improper conduct by municipality officials, employees, suppliers, service providers, or any other involved parties.
“Additionally, the probe will examine the performance, poor performance, defective performance, or late performance by the service providers appointed by the municipality regarding the services delivered, performed, or rendered as part of the projects,” Kganyago explained.
The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 January 2013 and 13 September 2024, as well as any related activities before 1 January 2013 and after the date of the Proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts.
Proclamation 182 of 2024
Proclamation 182 of 2024 directs the SIU to investigate allegations of maladministration with two tenders at the Masilonyana Local Municipality.
The investigation will examine whether municipal officials, including service providers, or any other involved parties unduly benefit themselves or others, leading to unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure or financial losses for the municipality.
Kganyago said the contracts under scrutiny include the refurbishment of Brandfort Water Treatment Works and Raw Water Pump Stations; and upgrading of Brandfort Sport Centre Phase II.
“The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 May 2020 and 13 September 2024, as well as any related activities before 1 May 2020 and after the date of the Proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts,” Kganyago said.
Proclamation 181 of 2024
Proclamation 181 of 2024 mandates the SIU to investigate allegations of maladministration of two tenders in the Gauteng Provincial Department of Human Settlement.
The SIU will investigate contracts including the procurement of, or contracting for, goods, works and services for the construction of 150 ablution and sanitation infrastructure and facilities at Sicelo Shiceka informal settlement: Phase 1 and Evaton, and the procurement of, or contracting for goods, works and services about the construction of 180 walk units at Sicelo Shiceka extension five.
The probe will also examine whether the payments for these contracts adhered to National Treasury guidelines and ascertain whether the payments were irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses for the municipality or the State.
Kganyago said the Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 April 2017 and 13 September 2024, as well as any related activities before 1 April 2017 and after the date of the Proclamation that is pertinent to the matters under investigation or involves the same persons, entities, or contracts.
“Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses. In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
“The SIU is also authorised under the SIU Act to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” Kganyago explained. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 09/15/2024 - 09:29
The Coca-Cola Company in Africa (www.Coca-ColaCompany.com) and its bottling partners Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA), Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company (ECCBC) and Coca-Cola HBC announced a nearly USD 25 million investment to help address critical water-related challenges in local communities in 20 African countries, starting this year through 2030. The work will be led by Global Water Challenge (GWC) and implemented by a consortium of partners, including The Nature Conservancy (TNC), The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
The effort, called ‘The Coca-Cola System's Africa Water Stewardship Initiative', was introduced in Cape Town, South Africa, in presence of executives from the Coca-Cola system in Africa and NGO partners. During the event, Karyn Harrington, Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability at The Coca-Cola Company's Africa Operating Unit indicated “Water is a priority for The Coca-Cola Company and its local bottling partners because it is essential to life, the communities we serve and our beverages. As we face increasing water insecurity worldwide, with demand outstripping supply in many regions such as Africa, Coca-Cola is taking steps to help accelerate efforts to address water stress, protect local water resources, and build community climate resilience. Our 2030 Water Security Strategy focuses on helping enhance water security where we operate, source ingredients, and touch lives.”
“One in three Africans face water insecurity. The Global Water Challenge and ‘The Coca-Cola System's Africa Water Stewardship Initiative' partner coalition will seek to improve water security for millions across the African continent, helping advance community health and resilience through abundant, clean water. We applaud Coca-Cola's continued leadership on African water security” said Monica Ellis, CEO of GWC.
‘The Coca-Cola System's Africa Water Stewardship Initiative' aims to help protect and enhance the health of important watersheds and to help improve access to water and sanitation services in local communities. We will have projects in Algeria, Botswana, Cabo Verde, Comoros, Egypt, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mayotte, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
“CCBA has a responsibility to help those who face water scarcity and to help protect local water resources where we operate, especially in places with the biggest challenges. We are proud to partner with The Coca-Cola Company on this project,” says Layla Jeevanantham, Chief Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Officer at CCBA.
“We are proud to partner with The Coca-Cola Company and fellow bottlers on this critical initiative to help tackle water challenges across Africa. By working together, we can leverage the expertise of our partners and the knowledge of local communities to help create sustainable solutions that enhance water access and safeguard vital water resources,” said Sonia Ventosa, Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability Manager at ECCBC.
“Coca-Cola HBC has been part of African communities for more than 70 years, and sustainability is an important part of how we operate. We're very happy to see this new water initiative come to life and to support the system's water stewardship efforts,” said Marcel Martin, Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer, Coca-Cola HBC.
Recognizing that partnerships are critical to support this work, the company and its bottlers are collaborating with governments, businesses, and civil society organizations to design and implement strategic interventions. In addition to supporting the company's water strategy, this effort also aims to contribute to advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation.
This water initiative will build upon The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF)'s Replenish Africa Initiative (RAIN), a groundbreaking collaboration with key partners and co-funders which helped improve access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene for 6 million people across African countries between 2009 and 2019. Through 120 projects, the initiative positively impacted homes, schools and healthcare clinics in more than 4,000 communities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca-Cola.
Contacts:
Amel Benchikh El Houcine
abenchikh@coca-cola.com
About The Coca-Cola Company:
The Coca‑Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company's purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca‑Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We are constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people's lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.Coca-ColaCompany.com and follow us on Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/3Ttw0hL), Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3ToqwVu) and LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/4db5D6V).
Forward-Looking Statements:
This update may contain statements, estimates or projections that constitute “forwardlooking statements” as defined under U.S. federal securities laws. Generally, the words “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “project,” “will” and similar expressions identify forwardlooking statements, which generally are not historical in nature. Statements about our sustainability goals, aspirations and anticipated progress also constitute “forwardlooking statements.” Forwardlooking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause The CocaCola Company's actual results to differ materially from its historical experience and our present expectations or projections. These risks include, but are not limited to, evolving sustainability regulatory requirements and expectations, including evolving processes, controls and methodologies for identifying, measuring, assuring and reporting sustainability metrics and data, which could result in significant revisions to our previously reported data; increasing concerns about the environmental impact of plastic bottles and other packaging materials; water scarcity and poor quality; increased demand for food products, decreased agricultural productivity and increased regulation of ingredient sourcing due diligence; climate change and legal or regulatory responses thereto; adverse weather conditions; unfavorable economic and geopolitical conditions; disruption of our supply chain, including increased commodity, raw material, packaging, energy, transportation and other input costs; an inability to successfully integrate and manage our acquired businesses, brands or bottling operations or an inability to realize a significant portion of the anticipated benefits of our joint ventures or strategic relationships; and other risks discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC), including our Annual Report on Form 10K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and our subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10Q, which filings are available through the SEC's website. You should not place undue reliance on forwardlooking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward looking statements.
Fitch affirms SA’s long-term foreign and local currency debt ratings at ‘BB-’
Government has noted Fitch’s decision to affirm South Africa’s long-term foreign and local currency debt ratings at ‘BB-’ and maintain the stable outlook.
According to the ratings agency, South Africa’s credit rating is constrained by several factors, including low real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, high poverty and inequality levels, a high government debt-to-GDP ratio, and a rigid fiscal structure that hampers deficit reduction.
However, the ratings are supported by a favourable debt structure with long maturities and mostly local-currency-denominated, strong institutions and a credible monetary policy framework.
The National Treasury said Fitch noted advancements in the implementation of the 35 priority reforms under Operation Vulindlela, initiated in 2020, aimed at modernising network industries such as electricity, water, and transport.
“The agency views the Government of National Unity (GNU), where the ANC remains the largest party, as a factor that reduces short-term policy uncertainty and facilitates the continuation of the implementation of the reform programme, which will contribute to a modest increase in real GDP growth.
“Fitch also acknowledges significant improvements in the electricity generation, with no supply interruptions since March 2024 and the potential for further increase in the short term,” said Treasury in a statement on Friday.
It said government’s strategy for fiscal consolidation over the medium term involves exercising expenditure restraint and implementing moderate revenue increases, while continuing to support the social wage and ensuring additional funding for critical services.
“Furthermore, government has decided to further mitigate fiscal risks by reducing borrowing over the medium term through leveraging a portion of valuation gains in the Gold and Foreign Exchange Contingency Reserve Account (GFECRA). Extensive reforms in energy, freight, water, and telecommunications are also in progress,” said the department. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 13:32
The company’s ThinQ ON platform is set to revolutionise daily life with personalised, intelligent home solutions. LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its pioneering vision for future living at IFA 2024 in Berlin, Germany, showcasing a comprehensive range of AI home solutions under the theme ‘Experience, Affectionate Intelligence (AI) Home.’ The exhibition highlighted how LG’s advanced AI …
Majodina to inspect Lesotho water project tunnel in Free State
Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina will on Saturday conduct an oversight visit to the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel in Clarens in the Free State.
The visit to the project located in the Dihlabeng Local Municipality comes ahead of the project’s shutdown for maintenance.
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel is preparing for a six-month closure, as it undergoes planned maintenance, jointly undertaken by the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) and the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA), which is an entity under the Department of Water and Sanitation.
The closure of the tunnel, which is scheduled to start from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025, is prompted by a need for extensive maintenance and repair works to ensure optimal water supply.
The tunnel system includes a transfer tunnel, linking Katse Dam with Muela Power Station and Muela Dam, and a delivery tunnel linking Muela Dam with the Ash River Outfall Works between Clarens and Bethlehem.
The work required to be undertaken during the shutdown period includes grit-blasting the steel-lined section around the entire circumference and re-applying corrosion protection on the tunnel lining, and other maintenance and repair work identified during the 2019 maintenance shutdown.
The department said the tunnel shutdown will have implications for water supply to South Africa, particularly on the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS) water users.
“The IVRS and the users along the Liebenbergsvlei River, Mafube, Nketoana and Dihlabeng Local Municipalities in the Free State will be affected as well. The department has engaged with all affected municipalities and stakeholders, including provincial government departments, informing them of the planned tunnel closure,” the department said.
Majodina, who will be accompanied by Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Sello Seitllolo will also hold a meeting with the affected municipalities to assess their state of readiness to continue water supply in their respective communities during the shutdown. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 10:58
Taps in this municipality have been dry for years
Framework to revitalise Eastern Cape agriculture sector
Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, says the province has adopted the Agriculture Investment Framework to revitalise the agriculture sector.
Commenting on the commercialisation of Eastern Cape’s agriculture, Kontsiwe noted that despite having the highest livestock population, the province only contributes 8% to the country's livestock Gross Domestic Product.
There are over 10 000 hectares of irrigable land with water rights in irrigation schemes that have the potential to produce dairy, vegetables, fruits, grains, and fodder.
“However, this land is not fully utilised, and optimising its use could greatly enhance sector performance in terms of growth and employment,” Kontsiwe said.
She said commercial farmers constitute 9% of the farming population, generating 71% of the income and employing 60% of the agricultural labour force, significantly driving the agricultural sector's performance.
On the other hand, she said, smallholder producers, representing 91% of the farming population, generate 29% of the income and provide 40% of the jobs.
“The growth of smallholder farmers is impeded by high barriers to entry, including high fixed costs (land, equipment, and operations), inadequate on and off-farm infrastructure, limited funding options tailored to their needs, rising input costs, and poor logistics.
“The challenge is how to effectively commercialise land owned by Black farmers to enhance the economic performance of the agricultural sector to build industries for inclusive growth,” the MEC said.
Policy
Kontsiwe said government has approved a progressive State Land Lease and Disposal Policy, aimed at releasing land to land reform beneficiaries to attract investment, improve productivity, and enhance competitiveness on their farms.
She reported that out of all the farms distributed in the Eastern Cape, 100 were classified as commercially viable in various agricultural sectors.
These include citrus in Amathole and Sarah Baartman; deciduous in Sarah Baartman; wool and beef across the province; and grain in OR Tambo, Alfred Nzo, Joe Gqabi, Chris Hani, and Amathole.
The department’s strategy for commercialising 100 farms involves repurposing the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA) to serve as a trade and business aggregator for various commodities.
“The ECRDA will be empowered to enter into 10-year commercial agreements with all 100 farms to provide holistic support to them and provide them with offtake contracts to supply their produce to ECRDA processors, which are planned to be located in RED Hubs and industrial parks such as Queens Industrial, Butterworth Industrial Park, Fort Jackson, and Dimbaza.
“These processors will process primary produce into food and feed products for domestic markets. For export-oriented products, the ECRDA, supported by the ECDC, will aggregate produce from these farms and explore trade opportunities in African, Chinese, and Middle Eastern markets,” Kontsiwe explained.
The MEC added that the department will partner with other sector departments to facilitate private sector investment by securing water rights for irrigation, obtaining environmental authorisation, acquiring title deeds, or securing long-term land use rights.
The department will also work towards consolidating and coordinating government investments towards land reform farms.
The targeted departments include Agriculture; Land Reform and Rural Development; Forestry, Fisheries and Environment; Water and Sanitation and Economic Development, Environment Affairs and Tourism.
“The department will collaborate with the Regional Land Claims Commission to secure Land Development Grants for 38 properties in land claims settlements [and] this will benefit communities in areas like Ncora, Magwa, Dwesa-Cwebe, Mkhambathi, and more.
“The department will develop an infrastructure business plan to access funding and unlock R220 million from the Land Development Grant,” Kontsiwe said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 09/12/2024 - 14:19
Mayco member says removal had to take place to make way for rightful beneficiaries. But it has taken the City of Johannesburg years to place people in these containers.
PRETORIA, South Africa – Car owners often face the frustration of a dead or failing battery, leaving them stranded and inconvenienced. Moreleta Service Centre, a trusted RMI-approved car service and repair centre in Pretoria, shares expert advice on how vehicle owners can extend their car battery’s lifespan and avoid unnecessary breakdowns. With over 25 years …
Pretoria, Gauteng – TT Waterproofing, a leading provider of roofing and waterproofing services, continues its commitment to protecting homes, businesses, and industrial properties from the damaging effects of moisture. With over nine years of industry experience, TT Waterproofing has established itself as a trusted name in Pretoria and beyond, delivering reliable waterproofing solutions that safeguard …
Tsomo waste water treatment works were meant to be completed two years ago
Fresh off a silver medal at the ASA Cross Country Championships, Cacisile Sosibo is now focused on adding another podium finish to her accomplishments, aiming for success at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K on National Heritage Day, Tuesday, 24 September 2024. Sosibo claimed the runner-up position behind Cian Oldknow in the senior women’s …
Pretoria, South Africa – Homeowners often rely on their dishwashers to simplify daily chores, so when the appliance leaves standing water at the bottom, it can be both frustrating and inconvenient. Appliance Repairs Centre, with over 38 years of experience in appliance servicing and repairs, has seen it all. The company is now sharing expert …
Rural food hubs to improve EC food security
The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) plans to establish food hubs in rural areas, which will enable subsistence and home-based vegetable producers to collect, store and process their produce for the local market.
Unpacking the department’s food security plans for this term on Tuesday, Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, said the department will support communities to grow their own food through home-based gardens and improving food access and income.
“This initiative will focus on sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and youth entrepreneurship in rural areas. Investing in our people will reduce living costs and promote self-sufficiency, thus community resilience,” she said.
Kontsiwe noted that the department is part of a coordinated effort by the provincial government to contribute to eradicating poverty and malnutrition in the province.
She acknowledged that the department alone cannot solve the food security issue, noting that despite having various programs and initiatives, the lack of a unified strategy has led to a fragmented and less effective approach.
The Office of the Premier has coordinated government departments and agencies to develop a Provincial Food and Nutrition Security Plan, and the department’s primary goal is to guarantee food security in the province.
The MEC said the department is committed to support people to cultivate the land, regardless of its size, and produce their own food.
She said the initiative will focus on sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and youth entrepreneurship in rural areas.
According to Kontsiwe, investing in people will reduce living costs and promote self-sufficiency and community resilience.
The department is planning to expand household food production in rural and peri-urban areas on a large scale.
She said the initiative will include establishing small-scale vegetable nurseries to provide high-quality seedlings, which will reduce production costs.
“DRDAR and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) are collaborating to support 42 000 households (30 000 from the Siyazondla Program and 12 000 from PES3) in growing their own food in the 2024/25 financial year.
“We invite all sectors of society to join us in addressing food insecurity and malnutrition in districts, metros, local municipalities, and wards. We are fast-tracking the spring water protection program to ensure villages have access to water for food production,” the MEC said.
For the 2024-25 financial year, the department plans to implement 10 spring water projects in five districts, including two in Alfred Nzo, Amathole, Chris Hani, Joe Gqabi, and OR Tambo.
The MEC highlighted that in the previous 2023/24 financial year, the department successfully completed 10 projects, installing 290 taps in 12 villages, benefiting 2 263 households and creating 729 jobs.
Embracing innovation and technology
Kontsiwe emphasised the importance of embracing innovation and technology to reduce production costs and mitigate the impact of climate change.
She said the department will this financial year launch a pilot program, which will see the installation of 14 tunnels with 3 720 climate-smart boxes in all districts and colleges.
The MEC said this initiative will allow vegetable producers to cultivate crops throughout the year in a controlled environment.
“We anticipate that this project will encourage more young people and women to engage in agriculture in our province. We invite people of all ages, including elders, churches, schools, health facilities, and traditional leaders, to support and promote community food production.
“We will collaborate with the private sector to assist households in growing their own food. These initiatives will be carefully planned, organised into projects, and implemented gradually with available resources,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 14:36
Vaal River cleared of water lettuce, water hyacinth
The Department of Water and Sanitation has officially opened the boating season on the Vaal River, marking a significant achievement in the battle against the invasive aquatic plants that had been causing challenges.
Boaters and recreational enthusiasts gathered at Stonehaven on the Vaal at the weekend to commemorate the milestone and enjoy the pristine waters.
The department said with the removal of the water lettuce and water hyacinth, the river is now free of invasive plants, allowing for a safer and more enjoyable boating experience.
For several months, the Vaal River had been plagued by the rapid spread of water lettuce and water hyacinth.
“These invasive species had taken over large areas of the river, choking out native plant life and disrupting the ecosystem. The situation was exacerbated by high levels of pollution in the river catchment, which fuelled the growth of these plants,” the department said.
The department took action to address the issue in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Vaal River Community and Rand Water.
Through a combined effort, water lettuce and water hyacinth were successfully removed, allowing the river to start the process of recovery.
To prevent a reoccurrence of this problem, the department has appointed and funded Rand Water to implement a proactive preventative program.
“This program aims to ensure that the Vaal River Barrage reservoir never experiences the same level of invasive aquatic weed coverage again. By taking a proactive approach, the department hopes to mitigate future infestations and protect the ecological health of the river,” the department said.
The restoration of the Vaal River is not only important for the preservation of the environment, but also for the well-being of the communities that rely on it.
“As the river regains its biodiversity and becomes cleaner, it will provide a healthier habitat for aquatic life and become a more attractive destination for outdoor activities.
“Moreover, the improved ecological health of the river will have a positive impact on local businesses that depend on the river for tourism and recreational activities.
“The successful removal of the water lettuce and water hyacinth on the Vaal River is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of various stakeholders. The efforts put forth by the DWS, Rand Water, and the Vaal River Community have shown that with a united front, it is possible to overcome environmental challenges and restore the natural beauty of our waterways,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 12:26
Warning on pollution and health hazards in informal settlement
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