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Mathe Group’s Hammarsdale facility, which recycles approximately 1 000 radial truck tyres per day to produce 45 tons of rubber crumb, is a pivotal export hub. Although many of its products are distributed internationally, the innovative rubber flooring solutions which helped establish this growing company in the first place, continue to highlight its global reach …
Decorating a room is always exciting, but nothing comes quite as close as the joy of decorating a nursery. But a precious new life also comes with great responsibility, including creating a nurturing environment for the latest member of the family. There are ways to ensure this becomes a reality – one of which is …
Autumn is the perfect time to book a golfing getaway with your golfing buddies or your partner if they enjoy golf. The weather is cooler, and rain is less likely but the fairways remain lush and inviting. Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group Hotels and Resorts, and avid golfer, shares some great tips to …
More than 200 people still live in tented shelter set up during Covid lockdown
House, vehicles of former Eskom official to be auctioned
The luxury home and two vehicles belonging to former Eskom official, Duduzile Moyo, and her husband Mmoloki, are set to be auctioned off to recover losses suffered by Eskom after she allegedly received kickbacks from a supplier amounting to at least R24 million.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU), through the Asset Forfeiture Unit, obtained a forfeiture order for the assets in the Pretoria High Court.
According to the SIU, the order is in addition to a preservation order to freeze Moyo’s pension benefits after she resigned at Eskom.
“She had allegedly received almost R25 million from an Eskom vendor, Tamukelo Business Enterprise, which was appointed to transport raw materials and water from Kendal Power Stations to Kusile Power Station.
“In her position as Eskom Contracts Manager, Moyo signed 23 interim payment certificates in respect of Tamukelo’s services for the period December 2011 to July 2014, totalling approximately R138 million.
“Furthermore, the SIU probe revealed that Tamukelo and its representatives paid entities linked or associated with Moyo while she negotiated and managed Eskom’s contract with Tamukelo. Moyo’s modus operandi was to create structures of entities owned by members of her family and friends to receive these funds,” the SIU said.
The unit added that Moyo’s conduct created an “apparent conflict of interest in that she received these funds in circumstances where part of her duties and functions were as a Middle Manager”.
“Moyo was also part of a team that presented the negotiation strategy of the Tamukelo tender worth over R300 million to the tender and procurement committee. She also deceived Eskom and repeatedly made fraudulent misrepresentations, declaring that there was no conflict of interest when dealing with Tamukelo and other role players for five years when signing Eskom’s Annual Declaration of Conflict Interest Policy.
“This forfeiture order is part of implementing the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, which sees law enforcement agencies working together to eradicate corruption in South Africa,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 04/03/2024 - 12:46
KZN gaming sector collects R724m for service delivery
The KwaZulu-Natal Gaming and Betting Board has collected a revenue of more than R724 million for service delivery, with more than 11 600 jobs being created for the citizens in the province.
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) MEC, Siboniso Duma, revealed this during the 15th Gambling Regulators African Forum (GRAF) Conference, currently underway at Sibaya Casino in Durban.
The annual conference, which is attended by over 500 international and national delegates, offers a unique opportunity for regulators to exchange knowledge, collaborate on regulatory challenges, and shape the future of the African gambling industry.
Hosted by the department’s entity, KwaZulu-Natal Gaming and Betting Board, this year’s conference taking place from 2 - 5 April 2024, is held under the theme, “Fostering Unity Towards a Coordinated Gaming Regulatory Framework for Africa”.
In his opening address on Wednesday, Duma emphasised the importance of the gaming sector in the province’s economy, noting that the industry invests more than R2 billion in the province.
Duma said the money has been allocated for various service delivery programmes, including roads construction; houses; and ensuring the provision of quality education, health, welfare services, water, and electricity.
“Companies that are involved in the gaming and betting sector have invested more than R2 billion towards the development of their facilities here in KZN. This has helped create jobs and stimulate other sectors of the economy such as tourism and construction.
“Importantly, through our entity, we regulate horseracing events such as the Durban July which is now called Hollywood Bet [which] has always been the country’s biggest race for years with more than R4.5 million in prize money and turnover of R140 million,” Duma said.
He added that various sectors of the economy have been benefiting for years with thousands of temporal and permanent jobs created.
Duma noted that due to COVID-19, jockeys have lost approximately R6.5 million monthly, including riding fees and winning stakes. The trainers have also lost approximately R3 million a month with their business reduced by 20%.
The MEC commended the stakeholders for working together to ensure the turnaround of the situation.
“The horse racing industry in general contributes around R3 billion to the country’s GDP and about R800 million in taxes every year. The contribution of the industry to the local economy is R905 million [and] we want this contribution to increase year-on-year.
“We are also moving with speed to unleash talent in deep rural areas through traditional racing events, such as Dundee July and Umtelebhelo. These have become major events in the annual calendar which have attracted more than 70 000 tourists,” Duma said.
Duma said government is also working jointly with licenses to transform the horse racing industry.
“Hollywood Sportsbook Group and Gold Circle have collaborated with government in supporting grooms within the horseracing industry. We want to see young people becoming horse owners, horse trainers, horse breeders, jockeys, veterinarians and grooms.
“We wish to acknowledge this contribution not only here in KZN but in other provinces and neighbouring countries. It is my view that this investment is an indication that gaming and betting Industry was a mature and well-established industry before COVID-19,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 04/03/2024 - 15:23
Controversial boat quotas to be reconsidered after meeting with Hondeklip Bay fishers, says fisheries department
The Dart 18 is a double-handed, high-performance sailing catamaran that offers an exhilarating and fast-paced experience on the water. This international class is popular with both recreational and competitive sailors, thanks to its unique design and exceptional handling. Unlike traditional catamarans, the Dart 18 utilizes skegs instead of centerboards, making it ideal for beach sailing …
Residents of the informal settlement went to court because they have had “temporary” chemical toilets for over 12 years
After a decade of water cuts, wealthier areas have insulated themselves, but poorer areas remain at the mercy of a failing system.
Gqeberha residents are invited to join a lively “Inner-City Clean Up” starting at 08:30 (until 10:00) from the Absa Branch on Govan Mbeki Avenue (Port Elizabeth Central, Gqeberha) on Saturday, April 6, 2024. This event sets the stage for the highly anticipated Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday (7 April). “Not only does …
Port Alfred – It was a massive day in Port Alfred as the real action kicked in for many sporting events that make up the Port Alfred Easter Festival. (photos by Ed Gutsche, Sue Maclennan, Louis Wulff, Chantal Emslie and others) In conditions that went from windless to ‘pretty windy, to say the least‘ in …
The International Court of Justice (‘the Court') has granted South Africa's Urgent Request of 6 March 2024, for further provisional measures to prevent Israel from causing irreparable harm to the rights invoked by South Africa under the 1948 Genocide Convention in respect of the ongoing siege of Gaza.
In doing so, the Court agreed with South Africa's assertion that the situation in Gaza had deteriorated significantly since the Court's Order of 26 January 2024 as a result of Israel's failure to comply with that Order. Therefore, it was necessary for the Court to indicate further provisional measures.
As the Court put it, “Palestinians in Gaza are no longer facing only a risk of famine, as noted in the Order of 26 January 2024, but that famine is setting in, with at least 31 people, including 27 children, having already died of malnutrition and dehydration”.
The Court unanimously ordered Israel to:
By fifteen votes to one (Judge ad hoc Barak of Israel dissenting), the Court ordered Israel to:
These provisional measures supplement those of 26 January, which ordered Israel inter alia to refrain from committing genocidal acts against Palestinians in Gaza and to prevent and punish direct and public incitement to commit genocide in relation to members of the Palestinian group in the Gaza Strip.
The impact of the International Court of Justice's order is significant. The changing circumstances in Gaza warrant the implementation of new strategies.
The fact that Palestinian deaths are not solely caused by bombardment and ground attacks, but also by disease and starvation, indicates a need to protect the group's right to exist.
The most effective way to uphold this right is through prevention. The Court's actions include specific responsibilities to prevent genocide.
As a number of Judges pointed out, these responsibilities can only be fulfilled by halting military operations in Gaza and adhering to the court's directives. If there is non-compliance, the global community must ensure adherence when it comes to the sanctity of humanity.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
The committee recommended that SAPS finds a way to be less dependent on Public Works
Dr Nkateko Msimeki, General Manager Health Policy and Medical Advisory from AfroCentric writes about the state of TB in South Africa and what we need to do to bring an end to this age-old disease. As we all mark World TB Day, it’s not only a time for reflection but also a moment to galvanise …
Heightened police visibility this Easter weekend
Law enforcement and border security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all this Easter holiday period, Cabinet said on Thursday.
“There will be heightened police visibility across the country aimed at preventing, combating and at the same time, countering serious and violent crime during the holiday period and beyond,” said Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
Ntshavheni addressed the media on Thursday the outcomes of the last official Cabinet meeting of the sixth administration held yesterday.
She also took the time to extend Cabinet’s best wishes to the Christian and Jewish communities as they observe the religious Easter and Passover holidays this weekend.
“During this time, many South Africans will travel around the country to visit their families and friends, resulting in increased traffic volumes,” said Ntshavheni.
She used the platform to appeal to those travelling during this holiday period to exercise caution on the road, adhere to traffic rules, and respect other road users.
“Law enforcement has adopted a zero tolerance for road users who drive recklessly and are negligent and those who use excessive speeds.”
She also reminded parents and caregivers to always be aware of their children’s whereabouts and ensure that their children are only left with responsible adults.
The Minister also advised them to be extra vigilant while supervising children around swimming pools or anywhere near water.
Shifting her focus to border security management, she said the Executive further welcomed the Border Management Authority’s (BMA) efforts to increase security control measures and reducing congestion.
She also announced that the BMA would extend the operating hours at critical ports of entry and deploy an additional 400 border guards to deal with the expected increase of travellers this Easter weekend.
The South African Police Service (SAPS), South African Revenue Service (SARS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA) are supporting this Easter operational plan.
The Executive applauded the work of the BMA, which will on 1 April 2024, mark one year since it was established.
The agency has intercepted over 270 000 people who tried to enter South Africa illegally and helped curb illegal migration, human smuggling, trafficking and cross-border crime.
Gaza conflict
Cabinet has also welcomed the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution that calls for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip for the Holy month of Ramadan and the unconditional release of all hostages.
The resolution also notes the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance.
“This resolution is the affirmation of the correctness of South Africa’s position on the need to prevent genocide and the violation of human rights of the people of Palestine and the release of hostages by Hamas.”
According to the Minister, she said these resolutions are binding and that the UNSC should ensure compliance.
“Therefore, adoption of this resolution is a critical step to also enable the flow of humanitarian assistance to the Gaza area,” she said.
READ | President welcomes UNSC resolution on Gaza ceasefire
Gender-based violence (GBV) prevention, corruption, and municipality officials arrested for corruption were some of the issues discussed by Cabinet.
30 Years of Freedom
Meanwhile, on 5 April 2024, South Africa will launch the 30 Years of Freedom commemoration which also coincides with Freedom Month in April.
“The occasion forever reverberates in the history of our nation as a month that gave birth to our freedom and constitutional democracy. The commemoration of 30 Years of Freedom is an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable journey we have traversed to create a vibrant democracy where the lives of all people are valued and people treated with respect,” said the Minister.
Other matters
Meanwhile, Cabinet said the signing of the agreement between South Africa and Zimbabwe to transfer treated water from Beitbridge Water Treatment Works in Zimbabwe to Musina, Limpopo, will alleviate water supply challenges in Musina.
“There will be further socio-economic benefits from the construction of a 20km pipeline and pump stations to transfer this 41 mega litres of water per/day to ensure Musina has sufficient water supply for the medium term.”
In addition, she said South Africa aims to promote industrialisation, competition, and job creation through seven master plans in different sectors.
The seven master plans are being implemented through the deployment of industrial policy tools, to develop capacity, increase investment and localisation, expand exports, and preserve and grow jobs.
In addition, she stated that Cabinet received an update on progress towards digital migration, with the final analogue switch set for December 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 03/28/2024 - 11:55
Interventions to stabilise water supply in Durban South Coast areas
The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality says the city is working around the clock to stabilise water supply in areas that are supplied through the South Coast Augmentation (SCA) pipeline.
The municipality said the system has been struggling to recover and maintain healthy levels to supply dependent reservoirs following the completion of repairs on a section of the 1200mm diameter SCA steel trunk main.
The trunk main underwent repairs after it was damaged by heavy rains.
The municipality said the city is building up storage at the Woodlands 3 and 4 Reservoirs by managing demand at the SCA pumpstation.
“Managing demands involve rationing supply to different reservoirs and switching off the booster pumpstations to allow reservoirs to recover. With this intervention, Woodlands 3 and 4 reservoirs have improved, with levels going from being empty to currently sitting at 30%.
“The city aims to reach 80% storage levels to be able to maintain pumping to the Amanzimtoti Waterworks to supply all dependent reservoirs that are located downstream from the Waterworks,” the municipality said.
The affected areas include Amanzimtoti CBD, Almond, Kingsburgh, Doonside, Illovo Beach, Panorama Park, Umgababa, Mgobhozini, Mfume, KwaSoni, Mshiwase, Nkwali, Lovu, Bhekulwandle, KwaMakhutha, Mkhazini, Ezimbokodweni, KwaFakazi, KwaMgendwa, Mahlathini, Ohlongeni, eKuphileni, Adams Mission, Umnini, Danganyana, Magabheni, Dlambula, Ehlanzeni, Thoyane, Umkomaas, Clansthal, Craigeburn, Amahlongwa, Amalundi, Crowder Farm, Malukazi, and Scottburgh.
Construction of retaining walls underway
Meanwhile, a team from the city is hard at work building the retaining walls along Sinamuva Road in Inanda Newtown extension B, Ward 107.
This follows recent heavy rain, which exposed the main water pipe and damaged the roadside wall.
The city said the installation of retaining walls will increase safety measures for the community using Sinamuva Road in Ward 107.
As part of remedial efforts, the team is securing the water main pipe and protecting the road from soil erosion.
City’s Project Foreman, who is providing strategic direction to ensure the work is done in accordance with job specifications, Bongani Shabalala, said the project started in December last year.
“Part of the work includes placing gabions to protect against soil erosion. A previous storm severely damaged the side wall, and other parts of the road were affected,” Shabalala said.
Resident Siboniso Mpanza, who is working on the project, said the repair work has created job opportunities for locals.
“Most of the workers here are the youth who are learning new skills. We will continue to use these skills gained even after the project is completed,” said Mpanza. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/28/2024 - 08:45
Nthabalala clinic near Elim has not had running water since mid-2022, according to residents
Since its launch in the second half of 2022, the eco-focused estate Serenity Hills between Uvongo and Margate has attracted local and international investor attention, with 60% of Phase 1 already sold and buyers taking ownership good news for those looking to invest in property on the KZN South Coast is that the launch of …
Paul Stevens, CEO of Just Property, demystifies the journey with this step-by-step guide to buying your first residential property in South Africa. Buying a property in South Africa is a significant financial commitment, and the process can feel overwhelming. The good news is that with the current market leaning in favour of buyers, it’s a …
Visitors can look forward to a day of fun and outdoor adventure as the ‘biggest gathering of pipe bands in the Southern Hemisphere’ – the Highland Gathering – returns to Amanzimtoti’s Hutchison Park on Saturday, 27 April. This annual fundraiser hosted by The Lions Club of Amanzimtoti brings highlands fun to sunny KwaZulu-Natal, with new …
The businesses were chosen from 173 applications following a rigorous selection process. The chosen projects come from the energy, transportation, agriculture, forestry and other land uses, circular economy and water sectors.
The businesses concerned will receive tailored one-to-one and group support from financial, technical and gender equality and social inclusion experts to help increase their chances of securing finance from South African and international investors. For the first time, two separate cohorts have been created to trial providing capacity building to promising early-stage projects.
So far, almost a third of projects from the first two phases of CFA South Africa have found investment since participating in the programme.
British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson said:
"South Africa has a huge number of companies and organisations with innovative ideas on how to tackle climate change. Support provided to these projects will help them secure investment, deliver green growth and jobs and contribute to South Africa meeting its climate commitments."
The 10 core cohort projects will undertake intensive capacity building before pitching to investors at an event in July, which early-stage projects will also be invited to attend.
The 5 projects selected in the early-stage pilot will have the opportunity to attend elements of the core capacity building training and will be encouraged to share their experiences with members of the core cohort, who may act as mentors.
CEO of the National Business Initiative (NBI), Shameela Soobramoney said:
"NBI believes that identifying and supporting innovative, low carbon companies across key green economy sectors is not just a strategic initiative, but a moral imperative. These companies represent the vanguard of progress, offering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing our country and the globe."
"Initiatives like CFA illustrate how targeted support, collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication can pave the way for a brighter, greener future for generations to come. If we don't create the future we want, the one we get will be worth infinitely less."
CEO of GreenCape (GC), Michael Mulachy said:
"Food systems, rare earth metal beneficiation, storage, e-mobility, waste and sanitation are all featured in this year's CFA finalists. This incredible cohort have solutions to some of the most pressing green economy challenges globally."
"Each finalist has found its niche in South Africa and has the potential to scale up rapidly – creating much needed jobs and investment in South Africa's green economy. The CFA programme has been an incredibly effective launch pad for these innovative green companies and GreenCape is eager to see the impact of this cohort."
The 10 core cohort projects are:
The 5 early-stage cohort projects are:
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British High Commission Pretoria.
As a homeowner, few things are more exasperating than dealing with a clogged dishwasher. That nagging feeling when you open it up after a cycle, only to find standing water and a mess of half-cleaned dishes staring back at you—it’s enough to make anyone frustrated. But fear not, because here at Appliance Repairs Centre, we’ve …
700 houses targeted in sting operation