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DWS calls on law enforcement to find culprits linked to Machitje’s death

Location: News

DWS calls on law enforcement to find culprits linked to Machitje's death

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has called for law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in finding the culprits responsible for the murder of Sello Machitje.

The department said it has learnt with shock and sadness of the tragic passing of Machitje, who went missing after an alleged hijacking and abduction on 8 July 2024.

Machitje’s vehicle was later recovered on the same day in Alexandra township, Johannesburg.

The department was informed that Machitje’s lifeless body was discovered in an open field in Bekkersdal, Westonaria, on Thursday, 18, July 2024.

According to the department, on the day of his disappearance, Machitje, who a Deputy Director responsible for management accounting in the Water Trading Entity of the DWS, was traveling to the Eastern Cape on a work assignment.

“The department currently does not have further details, as the matter is being handled by the law enforcement authorities,” the department said in a statement.

The department conveys its condolences to Machitje’s family and loved ones, and the colleagues in the department.

The department has urged law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in finding those responsible for this heinous deed.

“Out of respect for the family and to allow authorities to investigate this highly sensitive and tragic incident, DWS will not comment any further on the matter at this moment,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Sun, 07/21/2024 - 09:23

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Read moreDWS calls on law enforcement to find culprits linked to Machitje’s death

Ministers welcome renewed commitment to service delivery

Location: News

Ministers welcome renewed commitment to service delivery

Ministers responsible for some of the key portfolios in the Government of National Unity (GNU) have welcomed the renewed focus on some crucial areas of service delivery, as the work that lies ahead for the seventh administration was brought into sharp focus on Thursday evening.

President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at the Cape Town City Hall, where he provided the details of the programme of action for the new Executive. 

The much-anticipated address followed the ushering in of the seventh administration after South Africans voted in the National and Provincial Elections in May. With no outright majority winner, 10 political parties formed a Government of National Unity (GNU), which enjoins all parties to work together for improved service delivery and advanced economic growth. 

After the President’s address, some Ministers who spoke to SAnews in the Parliamentary Precinct in Cape Town, reiterated their support for the goals of this administration, which are articulated in the Statement of Intent agreed to by parties to the GNU.

Chief amongst these targets are the pursuit of rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth; the creation of a more just society by tackling poverty; safeguarding the rights of workers; stabilising government; building State capacity, and pursuing a foreign policy based on human rights, solidarity and peace.

President Ramaphosa highlighted a number of projects ranging from essential infrastructure to improved health care – all geared towards better outcomes for citizens and economic development. 

Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina told SAnews that the provision of water is an issue that requires urgent attention.

“We have mega water projects that we have unblocked, such as the Lesotho Highlands Phase 2, which will assist to provide water to Gauteng, North West, Free State, Mpumalanga and the Northern Cape,” Majodina said.

She reiterated government’s commitment to ensuring that projects of such nature become successful in delivering on their mandate, despite the hurdles that arise.

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa welcomed the President’s call for the proper implementation, at local government level, of the indigent policy so that the old, the infirm and the poor get assistance with the payment of basic services. 

“This is the outcome of our engagements and discussions, where we agreed on key priorities… to turn things around and pull together. We are also going to look [closely at] municipalities because if they are not stable, there won’t be economic growth,” Hlabisa said.

Improving health outcomes

On the provision of health services, President Ramaphosa once again reassured that through the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI), government will be able to bring stakeholders together, resolve differences and “clarify misunderstandings”, a sentiment echoed by Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi.

On 15 May 2024, President Ramaphosa signed the National Health Insurance Bill into law.

READ | President Ramaphosa signs NHI Bill into law

The NHI Bill seeks to provide universal access to health care services in the country, in accordance with the National Health Insurance White Paper and the Constitution of South Africa.

The Bill envisages the establishment of a National Health Insurance Fund and sets out its powers, functions and governance structures.

Motsoaledi said government intends to ensure that all are treated equally at health facilities.

“As government, we want people to be treated the same. This is what we are striving [for].”

The NHI Bill will also create mechanisms for the equitable, effective and efficient utilisation of the resources of the fund to meet the health needs of users and preclude or limit undesirable, unethical and unlawful practices in relation to the fund. It further seeks to address barriers to access.

The Bill was initially tabled in Parliament and introduced to the Portfolio Committee on Health on 8 August 2019 for processing. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 22:21

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Read moreMinisters welcome renewed commitment to service delivery

Relocation of Walmer flood victims imminent

Location: News

Relocation of Walmer flood victims imminent

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor Gary van Niekerk says he is satisfied with the process made to electrify temporary houses in Walmer, Gqeberha, where flood affected families will be relocated.

This comes as the metro is accelerating its efforts to ensure that outstanding work is completed in order to bring normality to the lives of the affected residents.

Van Niekerk said that a total of 20 families will be accommodated in the newly built temporary shelters in Walmer.

"We are happy to see work progressing well, as we updated our residents last week about the work that is underway and upcoming developments. Teams are on site electrifying the bungalows, [and] we are happy with the quality of the structures too.

“Water is already connected, and sanitation services will also be in place by the time the residents move in. We anticipate the electrification work will be completed later this month. Once that is done, the families will move in,” Van Niekerk said.

Van Niekerk said the municipality will continue to monitor progress in Walmer and the Kariega sites, where residents from Lapland will be moved to.

He said the municipality will continue to update the residents on developments so that everyone is "on the same page and there is no confusion".

“We are waiting for the greenlight from DEDEAT [Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism], but our teams are on standby, and as soon as that has been finalised, we are ready to clear the site and commence with the construction work.

“We wish to thank all stakeholders who are working with us and thank our residents for their patience with the work underway,” the Mayor said. - SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 07/19/2024 - 10:02

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Read moreRelocation of Walmer flood victims imminent

Interesting facts about four of South Africa’s biggest and oldest coastal Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)!

Location: MyPR

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are the ‘nature reserves’ of the sea, conserving marine biodiversity to protect threatened species and ocean health. South Africa is home to some 41 MPAs which play a vital role in ocean conservation, although currently only 5% of the country’s ocean space is protected by these vital areas. In celebration of …

Read moreInteresting facts about four of South Africa’s biggest and oldest coastal Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)!

Help for struggling municipalities

Location: News

Help for struggling municipalities

To achieve rapid and inclusive growth, South Africa must address struggling municipalities and appoint qualified professionals to top positions.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who delivered a televised Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Thursday evening.

“Growth happens at a local level, where people live and work,” the President said.

The Head of State took the time to outline the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies for the next five years in a joint sitting of the newly constituted two Houses of Parliament.

The Opening of Parliament signifies the formal start of the parliamentary year following the May 29 General Elections.

President Ramaphosa said municipalities should provide social services and promote inclusive economic growth.

“They must work to attract investment. This approach can encourage businesses to expand and create more jobs in municipal areas. Investors are attracted to areas with reliable and modern infrastructure.” 

eThekwini municipality 

The President also spoke at length about the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, which is currently under the Presidential Working Group, to enhance support from the national and provincial government and turn the metro around. 

“When I visited eThekwini earlier this year, I met with residents of the city, with local business leaders and municipal officials. They told me that they wanted to work together to build a city that they could be proud of again.” 

He said the group was working around the clock to fix the problems in water and sanitation to attract new investment.

“We will extend the same approach to other metropolitan cities that face serious challenges so that our cities can be engines of growth and dynamic centres of opportunity.

“eThekwini must be restored to its former glory,” he stressed. 

Simplifying and speeding up planning and regulatory processes can make it easier for businesses to invest and operate in a municipality, thus creating more jobs.

“As the national government, we have both a Constitutional responsibility and a clear electoral mandate to assist municipalities in the effective exercise of their powers and functions.

“We will ensure that the institutional structure and funding model for local government is fit-for-purpose and that municipalities are financially and operationally sustainable.” 

Qualified professionals

In addition, the President assured South Africa that government will ensure the appointment of capable, qualified people to senior positions in municipalities as well as independent regulation and oversight of the appointment process.

“As an immediate priority, we will bring stability to governance in our metros and restore the delivery of services. We have already begun this work,” he said. 

On Tuesday, newly appointed Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, said the seventh administration was committed to working towards turning around dysfunctional municipalities. 

Hlabisa used his Budget Vote Speech to acknowledge some of the challenges faced by local municipalities. 

He said the department will continue to implement and enforce compliance with Municipal Support and Intervention Plans (MSIPs) and employ financial recovery plans in distressed municipalities.

The Minister said the current leadership plans to prioritise five additional municipalities that are in severe financial and governance distress which has negatively impacted service delivery. 

Some of the five additional municipalities that will receive attention include Ditsobotla in the North West, Kopanong and Mafube in the Free State, Emfuleni in Gauteng and Thabazimbi in Limpopo. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:00

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Read moreHelp for struggling municipalities

GNU looks to SA becoming a “construction site”

Location: News

GNU looks to SA becoming a "construction site"

The face of the South African landscape is set for a significant upgrade, with a massive investment in infrastructure expected over the next five years.

“From our largest metros to our deepest rural areas, we have a clear intention to turn our country into a construction site, as roads, bridges, houses, schools, hospitals and clinics are built, as broadband fibre is laid and as new power lines are installed,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday.

Delivering the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) in Cape Town, the President stressed the importance of engendering a culture of maintenance of public infrastructure, while also dedicating resources and establishing systems to ensure this. 

“In the next five years, working together, drawing on our collective capabilities [in the Government of National Unity], we will forge a new inclusive growth path for South Africa by pursuing a massive investment in infrastructure. Significant projects are underway around the country in areas such as transport, roads, water, energy and human settlements. 

“We will massively increase the scale of investment in infrastructure through a more holistic and integrated approach, positioning Infrastructure South Africa as the central institution of coordination and planning,” the President said.

He said government is simplifying the regulations on public-private partnerships to enable greater investment in both social and economic infrastructure development. 

“As the Government of National Unity (GNU), we are resolved to intensify our investment drive, encouraging and enabling businesses to invest in productive capacity. These investments will lead to increased employment creation for unemployed South Africans especially for young people,” President Ramaphosa said.

After South Africans took to the polls on 29 May, the General Election results produced no outright majority winner – tasking various political leaders to work together to form a Government of National Unity, much like what was required at the dawn of democracy in 1994.

Some 10 political parties are part of the GNU, with leaders from some of those political formations appointed as Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

With the work of the seventh administration set to commence, the Government of National Unity has resolved to dedicate the next five years to actions that will advance three strategic priorities that include driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental State.

Improving passenger rail network

With so many people living far from economic opportunities and services, transport costs take up a large part of people’s income and drive up the cost of living.

“An immediate priority is therefore to complete the recovery of the passenger rail network across the country to enable people to travel from outlying areas to city centres. Around 80% of commuter rail corridors are now back in operation, and nearly 300 vandalised stations have been refurbished, providing safer and more efficient services to commuters,” Ramaphosa said.

Through the implementation of the Freight Logistics Roadmap, government will continue with reforms to transform South Africa’s freight logistics system.

“To drive inclusive growth, we need an efficient freight rail network to carry our minerals, agricultural produce and manufactured goods to market. The work we are doing with business and unions through the National Logistics Crisis Committee has already contributed to improvements in the operational performance of freight rail and ports,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 20:49

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Read moreGNU looks to SA becoming a “construction site”

Guests lay out expectations ahead of OPA

Location: News

Guests lay out expectations ahead of OPA

As the sun sets in Cape Town and momentum starts building towards President Cyril Ramaphosa’s delivery of the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA), guests have been laying out their expectations on what the President will deliver in his speech.

Anticipation is in the air as the President is about to reveal what the seventh administration – made up of the Government of National Unity – has in store for South Africans.

Guests speaking to SAnews laid out a variety of issues that they expect the President to address.

Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemi Majodina, said: “We’re waiting for him to address water issues in the country and job creation. I also expect him to address how municipalities that are struggling to provide services will be assisted because our people have told us that they have had enough.”

Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams said: “I’m expecting the President to outline the priorities of the Government of National Unity, which already are found in the Statement of Intent that the parties signed. 

“At the centre of it is how do we make South Africa work… creating more jobs, supporting small businesses and ensuring that we provide better services to our people.”

Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba said she hopes President Ramaphosa will address how rural economies can be developed for the benefit of those who live in those areas.

“People are following economic opportunities and people are following jobs. So we are looking at an inclusive economy. The President should address some of those issues on how would we unlock investments and investments must not just come as commitments. 

“They must come with growth and development. Once there is development, jobs will start to come in and when people get jobs where they are staying, there’s no need to migrate,” Ramathuba said.

Former Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise, called on the President to explain to South Africans how participants in the Government of National Unity have come together for the betterment of the country.

“I expect that the President will bring together those in government. I also expect that he will be able to satisfy us that there is cohesion; there is finding of each other [on] the different strengths that are now in Cabinet and that he will pull them together on behalf of us as South Africans,” Modise said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 17:56

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Train commuters receive blankets on Mandela Day

Location: News

Train commuters receive blankets on Mandela Day

Christmas came early for train commuters at the Cape Town train station this morning, when Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni handed over blankets to them.   

One of those who received a blanket was Bulelani Fumbeza from Keisriver, who told SAnews  he was happy to have received this special gift on Mandela Day.

“I am happy to receive the blanket on Madiba’s birthday and on a cold day like today. I am going to use the blanket to warm myself while watching the OPA [Opening of Parliament Address] this evening,” said a beaming Fumbeza. 

He added that he will never forgot that he received a gift on Madiba’s birthday.

Echoing the same sentiments was Andile Mchunu who lives on the streets of Cape Town. 

“I will forever be grateful for this gift, and I will never forget Madiba’s birthday. I wish our new government could do more and provide us with jobs and houses,” Mchunu said.

The distribution of the blankets came as the world today commemorates Mandela Day and the day in which President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at 7pm.

Ntshavheni was accompanied by Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina and Transport Minister Barbara Creecy.

Minister Ntshavheni used the opportunity to encourage commuters and members of the public to tune in to the OPA, which will take place at the Cape Town City Hall.

“We encourage South Africans to watch the President opening Parliament for the seventh administration this evening,” Ntshavheni said on Thursday.

Turning her attention to the youth, the Minister encouraged young people not only to watch the address, but to also visit the City Hall chambers to learn more about former President Nelson Mandela.

The Ministers and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) officials visited the station to raise awareness about the OPA, amongst others.

The Cape Town station - which is used by many commuters, especially during peak hours - was chosen as it is the main station in Cape Town and because of its proximity to the City Hall.

Also as part of this morning’s activation, the Ministers joined the Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and PRASA officials in the unveiling of the 30 years of democracy branded train. This as the country commemorates 30 years of freedom and democracy.

After the unveiling of the Democracy Train, the Ministers embarked on a walkabout at the station.

2024 marks the 30th anniversary of the birth of South Africa's democratic government, a milestone that Nelson Mandela was instrumental in achieving. Globally, he became the symbol of freedom and democracy.

For the 67 years that he spent in prison, fighting for the freedom of South Africa, the government calls upon everyone to spend at least 67 minutes doing something that will have a positive impact and bring lasting change to the lives of those in our communities. – SAnews.gov.za
 
 

Edwin
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 11:32

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Read moreTrain commuters receive blankets on Mandela Day

Quiz: Should You Be Planning a Summer Holiday, Winter Getaway, or a Spring Escape?

Location: MyPR

Dreaming of your next adventure? Our country’s natural beauty shines year-round, from sun-soaked beaches to snow-capped mountains. But when’s the perfect time for you to take that well-deserved break? “We are spoilt for choice in South Africa, so it all depends on what season resonates most with your interests as each offers something unique,” says …

Read moreQuiz: Should You Be Planning a Summer Holiday, Winter Getaway, or a Spring Escape?

Reclaiming Your Space: 6 Steps to Remove Flood Water For Your Home/Building

Location: MyPR

The Cape of Storms has once again lived up to its name as multiple cold fronts battered both the Eastern and Western Cape during July, bringing gale-force winds and flooding to the Nelson Mandela Bay and Cape Town metros and surrounds. Thousands of people have been displaced and 15, 000 structures in the Cape Town …

Read moreReclaiming Your Space: 6 Steps to Remove Flood Water For Your Home/Building

Designer Pool Covers Cape Town Expands Product Line to Meet Growing Demand for Pool Safety and Efficiency

Location: MyPR

Cape Town, South Africa – Designer Pool Covers Cape Town, a leading provider of high-quality pool cover solutions, has announced an expansion of its product offerings to meet the increasing demand for pool safety and energy efficiency in the Western Cape region. The company has introduced several new automatic and safety cover options to complement …

Read moreDesigner Pool Covers Cape Town Expands Product Line to Meet Growing Demand for Pool Safety and Efficiency

All eyes on SA’s First Citizen

Location: News

All eyes on SA's First Citizen

Many South Africans are expected to be glued to their screens this evening, 18 July 2024,  as they eagerly wait to hear from President Cyril Ramaphosa, when he delivers the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at 7pm. 

As South Africa struggles with rising fuel and food prices, youth unemployment, crime and corruption, amongst others, many citizens are seeking hope and will be looking to President Ramaphosa’s speech for much-needed optimism as he leads the country under the Government of National Unity (GNU) banner.

President Ramaphosa was re-elected for a second term last month at the first sitting of the National Assembly since the highly contested elections of 29 May.

He received 283 votes, while the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, received 44 votes for the top job.

The Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, has described the OPA ceremony as a historic event and said that the opening of Parliament reaffirms the government’s commitment to constitutional democracy.

“It serves as a powerful symbol for our nation’s ability to overcome adversity and continue the important work of governance,” Didiza said at a media briefing on Thursday to outline Parliament's state of readiness for the big event today, expected to showcase all the colourful and elegantly put together ceremonial aspects, befitting the Opening of Parliament.

Key areas

Speaking to SAnews, University of South Africa (Unisa) political analyst, Professor Dirk Kotze, said he expected the President's speech to focus on the economy.

“The issues he emphasised in the past will continue; the economic recovery plan, I suspect will still be the basis of his focus and [the] employment matter - how to create employment.”

Kotze also believes that the President will address infrastructure matters, foreign investments, and issues regarding electricity and water.

“I think the matter that is an overarching issue is how to deal with the fiscal issue and how there’s a reduction of the budgets in all of the different departments and how to try to improve the fiscal situation as a whole,” he told SAnews.

According to Kotze, the President’s speech usually covers almost all the departments, and that people can expect the same from the OPA.

He will also reaffirm the government's commitment to the fundamental principles of multilateralism, non-partisanship, and democracy, said the analyst.

“He should also create an environment which will make the GNU attractive for South Africans and the international community. I don’t know how exactly he’s going to do it, but he will have to build trust in the new government.”

Kotze also suspects that President Ramaphosa will address the GNU, discussing what they have already agreed upon, how it should function, and how Cabinet should operate. 

“I think that will be the important part of the speech,” he explained.

The road to OPA

The Opening of Parliament signifies the formal start of the parliamentary year and is usually marked by grandeur, ceremony, and glamorous fashion that sparks conversation.

However, it is more than just that;  but a significant ceremony where the Head of State outlines the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies during a joint sitting of the newly constituted two Houses of Parliament to deliver the OPA of the seventh administration.

The OPA occurs once every five years, following the Provincial and National Elections. It outlines the new administration’s plans and the official opening of the new five-year term of Parliament.

The President presided over the first Cabinet lekgotla of the administration at Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria over the weekend, where Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and Premiers gathered to discuss the government’s agenda.

The OPA will also provide an opportunity to hear the direction government is taking under the GNU.

According to Parliament, the address serves as a unifying force for the whole nation to collaborate and continue the progress made by past governments.

“It draws us in a common front to find ways to address the challenges we face and improve the lives of people.”

Mandela Day

This year’s opening of Parliament coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day.

July 18 marks the birthday of the founding President of a democratic South Africa and is a global celebration. It is a day for personal and collective actions for good that honour the leader’s life and legacy.

The Presidency has since called on citizens and communities to take time to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and to make a positive impact on communities globally.

The OPA will take place at the Cape Town City Hall.

South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone. 

Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts.  – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:57

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Read moreAll eyes on SA’s First Citizen

Dive into Diversity: Discovery Shark Week’s Exclusive Ocean Excursion with The Black Mermaid

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Discovery Channel’s Shark Week is airing in South Africa on Discovery Channel Africa, DStv channel 121, and this evening, Zandile Ndhlovu, also known as The Black Mermaid, stars in Monster Hammerheads: Species X at 18:30. To amplify her message of shark conservation, she is also lead an exclusive ocean excursion today at the The Aliwal …

Read moreDive into Diversity: Discovery Shark Week’s Exclusive Ocean Excursion with The Black Mermaid

EPWP programme exceeds target

Location: News

EPWP programme exceeds target

With over 80 000 work opportunities created, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment will continue to focus on the creation of work opportunities through the implementation of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) in carrying out its mandate.

“Through a range of EPWP projects implemented by the department, the DFFE exceeded its 2023/24 EPWP target of creating 42 302 work opportunities, as the department created a total of 80 918 work opportunities,” said Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts.

Speaking at the Budget Vote of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the first in the seventh administration for the department, the Deputy Minister said these work opportunities benefited 60% women, 58% youth and 1% of persons with disabilities.

“Youth employment included the employment of graduates, enabling them to gain critical experience in line with section 24 of the Constitution. 

"It is encouraging that some of these graduates were absorbed into the municipalities and other host organisations.”

The department met its target for full time equivalents (FTEs), meaning that it was able to improve the duration of employment as EPWP participants are paid in accordance with the number of days worked.

Swarts said the implementation of the Municipal Greening and Cleaning Programme through a partnership model with the municipalities created the most work opportunities.

“The partnership had the department paying for the EPWP stipends and providing the primary project management responsibilities. The municipalities provided personal protective equipment (PPE), tools of trade and medical screening.

“The Municipal Greening and Cleaning Programme contributed to the waste management service delivery through daily cleaning-up and clearing of illegal hotspots,” she said.

In this financial year, the department has prioritised the creation of 31 075 EPWP work opportunities and 22 538 full time equivalents through the implementation of the Working for Water, Working on Fire and Working for Wetlands and the Municipal Greening and Cleaning programmes.

“SANParks – one of our entities - also participates in the DFFE funded EPWP which is aimed at creating jobs targeting women, youth and people with disabilities.

“Under this programme, SANParks exceeded all targets in the previous financial year, having employed 5 150 full-time equivalents, employing 7 098 youth, 6 483 women and 198 people with disabilities.

“Over the medium term, under this programme, SANParks aims to create over 13 860 jobs targeting women, youth and people with disabilities, mostly from neighbouring communities to national parks.”

The department is implementing the National Greening Programme, which aims to coordinate national, provincial and local government initiatives and those of civil society to plant, care and maintain trees and other vegetation in urban and rural settlement areas.

“An estimated 1 177 390 trees were planted through DFFE initiatives and other stakeholders in the 2023/24 financial year. This resulted in the creation of 4062 work opportunities as it is implemented through the EPWP,” said Swarts. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Janine
Tue, 07/16/2024 - 10:44

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South Africa will decarbonise at a pace affordable to the economy

Location: News

South Africa will decarbonise at a pace affordable to the economy

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated that South Africa will decarbonise at a pace and scale that is affordable to the economy and society.

“If we act too fast, we risk damaging huge sections of our economy before we have built alternative energy and industrial capabilities. At the same time, not acting now risks our economic stability,” President Ramaphosa said on Monday.

The President was speaking at the Climate Resilience Symposium, which is underway at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) International Convention Centre, in Pretoria.

READ | Climate resilience tops agenda at symposium

Held under the theme, 'Moving the needle on climate change and just transition: The role of the National Treasury', the three-day symposium, taking place from 15 - 17 July 2024, aims to integrate climate goals into macro-fiscal and finance policy. 

It also aims to improve government coordination by mainstreaming climate change considerations into the intergovernmental fiscal system, amongst others.

In his address, President Ramaphosa stressed the importance of strengthening systems for adaptation and mitigation, building resilience in communities, and accelerating the decarbonisation efforts and the pace of the just energy transition.

“The reality we must confront is that the carbon-intensity of our economy is unsustainable and for decades our reliance on coal was a competitive advantage because it allowed us to produce electricity cheaply, but the world has changed and this dependency has come to pose significant risks,” President Ramaphosa said.

WATCH | 

As the world moves towards greener economies, the country’s trading partners, the President said, will take measures to ensure that their own climate actions do not undermine their economies.

He said instruments like the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which has the potential to cause great damage to developing economies, signal the inevitability of carbon pricing in global trade systems.

He said the country’s emissions-intensive energy system is likely to increasingly undermine its competitiveness in global markets.

Safeguarding the nation

President Ramaphosa called on South Africa to embrace a managed transition to a low-carbon economy, not only to safeguard its people and environment, but to ensure the country’s economic resilience and growth.

He warned that the country is facing a climate emergency, and indecision and slow action are not an option.

“We must act decisively and swiftly to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure a just transition for all South Africans. We must pursue a green industrial agenda that will create jobs and grow the economy.

“Investments in green infrastructure, renewable energy and climate adaptation measures can be costly, requiring careful financial planning and prioritisation. That is why we have prioritised inclusive growth,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President said government is hard at work implementing the urgent reforms needed to lift growth and pursuing a fiscal strategy that protects the sustainability of public finances.

He noted that Operation Vulindlela has been an extremely successful partnership between National Treasury, the Presidency and a wide range of government departments.

“It has enabled significant reforms in areas like energy, water, telecommunications, and transport, making our economy more competitive and increasing our productive capacity.

“Our strategy involves preparing ourselves to withstand the economic risks posed by climate change while taking full advantage of the opportunities of the energy transition. This is no easy balance,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:18

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Read moreSouth Africa will decarbonise at a pace affordable to the economy

Front Loader vs. Top Loader: Which Washing Machine is Ideal for Your Household?

Location: MyPR

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – July 2024 – In the quest for the perfect laundry routine, the choice between a front loader and a top loader washing machine can significantly impact your household’s efficiency and convenience. Both types offer unique advantages tailored to different needs and lifestyles. Here is a detailed guide to help you decide …

Read moreFront Loader vs. Top Loader: Which Washing Machine is Ideal for Your Household?

A busy week ahead in Parliament

Location: News

A busy week ahead in Parliament

Parliament is expected to be abuzz with activity this week as the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) draws closer and Budget Vote Speeches and Parliamentary Committee meetings continue.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the OPA on Thursday during a joint sitting of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

“According to the new Joint Rules of Parliament, the OPA is now distinct from the State of the Nation Address (SONA). The SONA is held annually in February to outline the government's plans and priorities for the year and report on the state of the nation. 

“The OPA, on the other hand, occurs once every five years, after elections, to announce the new administration's plans and to mark the beginning of the new five-year parliamentary term. 

“The OPA coincides with Nelson Mandela International Day - an annual global celebration on 18 July to honour the life and legacy of former President Nelson Mandela by emulating his exemplary and selfless service to humanity,” Parliament said in a statement.

Following that address, the two Houses are expected to hold a joint sitting on Friday to debate the OPA.

However, preceding both the address and subsequent debate will be a media briefing by Parliament’s Presiding Officers, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly Thoko Didiza and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane.

Parliament’s other business

According to the statement, tomorrow (Tuesday) the NCOP’s programming committee will meet to “consider the draft parliamentary programme, reports and bills before the House”. 

That meeting will commence at 9.15am.

“Meanwhile, the NCOP will have plenary sittings on Tuesday and Wednesday for four policy debates on Budget Votes and to consider legislation before the House, motions and various committee reports. 

“The hybrid plenary on Tuesday will hold debates on Budget Vote 3 (Cooperative Governance) and Budget Vote 41 (Water and Sanitation). On Wednesday, the House will have policy debates on Budget Vote 5 (Home Affairs) and Budget Vote 18 (Health),” the statement said.

Parliamentary committees are also expected to meet this week.

“With the parliamentary committee structures now established and chairpersons elected, the committees of the two Houses have scheduled 13 committee meetings for this week. These committees will get briefings from ministers and consider and adopt the draft reports on the Budget Votes. 

“The Standing Committee on Appropriations will have virtual public hearings on the Appropriations Bill on Friday,” the statement concluded.

The list of committee meetings are available at www.parliament.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
 

NeoB
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:48

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Read moreA busy week ahead in Parliament

Government continues to assist those affected by Western Cape floods

Location: News

Government continues to assist those affected by Western Cape floods

Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, says government has been hard at work to relocate the families affected by the devastating floods in the Western Cape this week.

Thousands of people in the province have been rendered homeless after flooding destroyed their homes.

“We’ve been able to relocate families into a building that, as government, we have leased for 30 days while we are finding a solution in terms of the informal settlement because they have submerged, whether the rain will come down and we move them back or we have to find an alternative land where we relocate them,” she said.

The Minister added, however, that finding suitable land was proving elusive.

“The challenge in the City of Cape Town is land availability and the requirements we have to follow in terms of our processes of approvals for land use. 

“So currently those that were affected in terms of their buildings, formal structures, the assessment has been done by the [National Home Builders Registration Council]. We have received the first report. We are hoping that by Monday, we would have that intervention as fixing those houses by our service providers that we have been able to appoint.

“The materials for the informal settlements are starting to be delivered,” Kubayi said.

Meanwhile, the Western Cape provincial government said it has given the green light for some households in Newton in the Drakenstein Municipality to return home.

This after 900 households in the area were evacuated when it was established that a dam wall in the area was at risk of failure due to the severe flooding.

“Working in consultation with the Department of Water and Sanitation and a dam engineering specialist, Drakenstein Municipality’s Engineering Services Department performed another onsite inspection this morning of the farm dam above Newton and confirmed that the risk of dam wall failure has been mitigated.

“This decision was taken in light of the fact that the water level of 150 000-cubic-meter dam in the Bo-Dal area dropped slightly since last night, as well as the lighter rainfall predicted for today. 

“According to the authorities, the dam should be able to handle the flow of water that is expected to reach it today.

“The municipality will keep on monitoring the dam closely and notify residents immediately should the situation change,” the Western Cape government said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 07/14/2024 - 13:54

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Read moreGovernment continues to assist those affected by Western Cape floods