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You are here: Home / Archives for Water

Water

14 March 2024

Thousands of people still living on Cape Town’s Central Line

Location: News

This is in addition to the hundreds of families in shacks who were relocated from the railway line in Philippi in December

Read moreThousands of people still living on Cape Town’s Central Line
13 March 2024

Disaster teams activated in KZN municipalities amid heavy rainfall warning

Location: News

Disaster teams activated in KZN municipalities amid heavy rainfall warning

Disaster teams have been activated in all KwaZulu-Natal municipalities that may be affected by heavy rainfall that could potentially lead to flooding in the north-eastern part of the province.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) activated the teams after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) raised the alert level to orange, Level 6, the highest warning level.

The level 6 alert indicates a high probability of flooding, as a significant amount of rainfall exceeding 100mm is expected over the extreme north-eastern part of KZN. 

According to the South African Weather Service, the weather poses a high likelihood of flooding of roads, bridges and settlements, major disruption of traffic flow, and disruption to essential services, including water, electricity, and communications.

The department said the areas that maybe affected include, uMhlathuze, Mtubatuba, Big Five Hlabisa, Nongoma, Jozini, uPhongolo and Umhlabuyalingana Local Municipalities. 

“We have activated our disaster teams in all the municipalities that are likely to be affected to be on high alert during this period. We advise communities to seek shelter in safe places.

“Public facilities, such as community halls, are open as safe havens for those in need of shelter. Our teams may have to evacuate people should they foresee high risk of danger due to inclement weather,” the department said.

The department has also advised motorists to avoid travelling during this period, as bridges may become flooded, posing a risk to life.

On Monday, SAWS issued a warning about Moderate Tropical Storm ‘Filipo’ that is currently nearing the coast of southern Mozambique and expected to impact north-eastern areas of South Africa.

“The weak, embryonic tropical low-pressure system located between Madagascar and mainland southern Africa (Mozambique Channel) experienced significant intensification overnight, attaining a “Moderate Tropical Storm” status, which is associated with average winds of 63 to 89 km/h. 

“Consequently, it has now been elevated to a “named” system, namely Moderate Tropical Storm Filipo. The storm is expected to affect mostly the southern parts of Mozambique, but some of its effects will also be felt over the extreme north-eastern parts of South Africa,” the Weather Services warned. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 10:33

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Read moreDisaster teams activated in KZN municipalities amid heavy rainfall warning
13 March 2024

Construction of new Western Cape police station on track

Location: News

Construction of new Western Cape police station on track

It is all systems go in the construction of more police stations in areas experiencing high crime volumes in the Western Cape.

The Ministry of Police says it is encouraged by the progress made by contractors who are currently building two police stations which are set to bolster policing and increase the footprint of the police in communities grappling with violent crime and gangsterism in Cape Town.

On Tuesday, the management of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Ministry of Police led by Minister General Bheki Cele, conducted monitoring and evaluation visits to the Makhaza and Tafelsig police stations which are currently under construction.

Progress is being made in the clearing of the site earmarked for the construction of the Tafelsig station which will bring police services closer to residents of Michelle’s Plain.

While there have been some delays in the commencement of construction at the Tafelsig police station due to the community’s demands to form part of the construction project, this has been resolved and contractors have agreed to source labour from the local community.

Meanwhile, the Ministry has welcomed the quick turn-around time in the building of the Makhaza police station which is now 97% complete. Upon completion, the station will better service the community of Khayelitsha.

“It has taken six months to complete the Makhaza police station and this is commendable and encourages us to do more to ensure policing services are not a ‘nice to have’ but are accessible to all.”

“We have been assured by contractors that the outstanding electricity and water connections on the site will be completed with[in] the coming weeks and the station can fully operate and service the community,” he said.

The Tafelsig and Makhaza stations alongside stations in Browns Farm and in Samora Machel, also in the Cape Flats of the Cape Town metropole, are expected to be completed and service communities by 2026. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 10:59

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Read moreConstruction of new Western Cape police station on track
13 March 2024

Committee Adopts National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA) Bill and Will Recommend Adoption by National Assembly

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation has adopted the B-list version and committee report of the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA) Bill, which brings to an end the committee's consideration of the Bill. Having adopted the Bill and a report, the committee will recommend that the National Assembly adopts the Bill.

The National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency Bill seeks to ensure a sustainable, equitable and reliable supply of water from national water resources infrastructure while meeting constitutional obligations, including the national and regional social and economic objectives of national policy. The Bill also seeks to address the current fragmentation of asset management and revenue collection functions for national water resource infrastructure. Currently, functions between the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority, the Water Trading Entity and the department's infrastructure branch are fragmented.

As part of the process, the committee received 120 public submissions, with oral submissions received from the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac), the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), the National Treasury and the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU).

Some of the concerns raised during the public hearings included that there was no socio-economic impact assessment (SEIAS) on the Bill. The Department of Water and Sanitation has now confirmed that the Presidency approved the final SEIAS in June 2023, and the National Treasury has independently reviewed and assessed a business case for the NWRIA.

The portfolio committee proposed and adopted numerous amendments relating to the following clauses: 1, 3, 7, 9, 17, 34 and 35. Of critical importance to the committee was strengthening parliamentary oversight over the agency and critical amendments were made to ensure the submission of annual corporate plans and quarterly reports to Parliament, emphasising the role of the parliamentary committee in reviewing and engaging with these.

The Chairperson thanked Members of Parliament, departmental officials including legal officers, the Office of the Chief State Law Advisor and Parliament's legal unit for their help in enabling the committee to reach this point.

Meanwhile, the committee adopted its legacy report and is satisfied with the work it has undertaken in the sixth term of Parliament. This work includes the reintroduction of the Blue, Green and No-Drop reports, which were published following the committee's strong recommendations. Nonetheless, the committee remains cognisant of the enormous challenges facing the sector generally and emphasised that there should be more focus on service delivery in the seventh Parliament. This focus should emphasise strengthening the framework for intergovernmental relations to ensure that the provision of water and sanitation improves.

Furthermore, the committee highlighted the need to continue monitoring consequence management within the water value chain to ensure that individuals and companies found to have transgressed laws and regulations are held accountable. The committee remains of the view that the eradication of corruption is critical in achieving the mandate of water and sanitation provision to the people.

The committee has also highlighted the need to focus on monitoring the implementation of water and sanitation projects to ensure that projects are delivered on time and within budget.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read moreCommittee Adopts National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA) Bill and Will Recommend Adoption by National Assembly
13 March 2024

Mastering the Art of Exterior Waterproofing: TT Waterproofing Shares Best Practices

Location: MyPR

As a seasoned business owner with over 9 years of experience in delivering top-notch roofing and waterproofing solutions, I understand the significance of fortifying your property against the elements. Your property’s first line of defense is its exterior, and mastering the art of exterior waterproofing is paramount to ensure long-lasting protection. In this article, we’ll …

Read moreMastering the Art of Exterior Waterproofing: TT Waterproofing Shares Best Practices
13 March 2024

Service delivery ‘war room’ working to resolve water and electricity disruptions

Location: News

Service delivery 'war room' working to resolve water and electricity disruptions

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says government is implementing rapid response interventions to resolve water and electricity disruptions in various municipalities across the country.

The Deputy President was speaking during his question and answer session in the National Council of Provinces on Tuesday.

Through the Service Delivery War Room, the Deputy President said the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has developed some improvement plans to implement rapid response interventions. 

These, he said, include the establishment of the Results Management Office and the introduction of reforms in the Municipal Infrastructure Grant to fund repairs, refurbishment and renewal of infrastructure.

The war room is looking into the continued deployment of technical professionals through the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA).

The Deputy President told Members of Parliament that part of the Results Management Office’s responsibility is to assist municipalities in advancing demand-side management measures and providing alternate energy supplies. 

“These initiatives are aimed at reducing the impact of load shedding and its effect on substations and transformers,” he said.

Last week, the Deputy President, together with the Deputy Ministers of CoGTA and Water and Sanitation, visited Knysna Municipality in the Western Cape to find solutions to some of the challenges the municipality is facing.

“We are happy to report that with the support of MISA, the pump station that had been vandalised in the Hornlee area has been repaired, and water supply has been restored to the community. 

“As this government, we are committed to working within the inter-governmental relations framework to ensure that we assist municipalities in delivering services to our people,” he said. 

MISA continues to engage the private sector to fund bulk water infrastructure projects. Mashatile cited Sishen Mine in the Northern Cape and the Anglo Platinum Mine in Limpopo as some examples of private sector projects. 

“These private sector entities have stepped up to fund wastewater treatment works upgrades in the Northern Cape and Limpopo,” he said. 

In addition, Eskom has initiated the Active Partnering Programme, which provides technical support to municipalities through targeted interventions based on their needs. This is also aimed at strengthening the capacity to address the high failure rate of mini substations and transformers.

The Deputy President said Parliament is currently processing the South African National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency SOC Limited Bill to establish the South African National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency as a State-owned company, and a major public entity. 

“The agency will enable South Africa to expand our bulk water infrastructure and improve the management of existing water assets to ensure water security over the next decade,” he explained. 

Mashatile said government will continue to work tirelessly to assist municipalities to meet their constitutional obligation to provide reliable water and sanitation services to all South African citizens. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 09:36

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Read moreService delivery ‘war room’ working to resolve water and electricity disruptions
13 March 2024

Women’s hostel two-week blackout blamed on strike in eThekwini

Location: News

Five women from Thokoza Hostel were arrested on Tuesday after protesting to get the electricity restored

Read moreWomen’s hostel two-week blackout blamed on strike in eThekwini
12 March 2024

Ethekwini mayor warns strikers to return to work or face dismissal

Location: News

The municipality has obtained an urgent interdict against violence and intimidation attempts by strikers

Read moreEthekwini mayor warns strikers to return to work or face dismissal
12 March 2024

St Benedict’s Top SA Boy’s Rowing School For 30th Consecutive Year

Location: MyPR

They’ve done it again! St Benedict’s College remains unbeaten, holding onto the coveted title of South Africa’s School Rowing Champions, for the 30th consecutive year. Despite fierce competition at the annual schools’ regatta (1-3 March 2024), the Johannesburg boys’ school placed first in the lion’s share of the events, out rowing teams from the best …

Read moreSt Benedict’s Top SA Boy’s Rowing School For 30th Consecutive Year
12 March 2024

Malmesbury communities march against high water and electricity tariffs

Location: News

“If you don’t have money to pay for water, the municipality blocks electricity” says protestor

Read moreMalmesbury communities march against high water and electricity tariffs
11 March 2024

SA, Zimbabwe to sign agreement for treated water transfer to Musina

Location: News

SA, Zimbabwe to sign agreement for treated water transfer to Musina

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, and his Zimbabwean counterpart, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development Minister, Dr Anxious Jongwe Masuka, will on Thursday sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the transfer of treated water to Musina.

The bilateral agreement between the two countries will allow for supply of about 15 million cubic metres per annum (m3/a) which is equal to 41 Ml/d of treated water from Beitbridge Water Treatment Works in the Republic of Zimbabwe to Musina in South Africa. 

The Musina Local Municipality has a total population of 132 009 people residing in 192 villages and one town, which is Musina. The area is dry with limited sources of water and largely relies on groundwater for supply.

“South Africa and Zimbabwe signed a bilateral agreement on Co-operation on Water Resources Management and the Establishment and Functioning of the Joint Water Commission (JWC) in 2015,” the department said in a statement.

Limpopo Watercourse Commission agreement amendment

On the day of the signing of the agreement, Mchunu with his counterparts from Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Mozambique - who are all members of the Limpopo Watercourse Commission (LIMCOM) - will also sign the amended LIMCOM Agreement in the transboundary agreement.

LIMCOM is a transboundary organisation established by four member countries to use management of the shared water resources in an equitable manner.

The department said the agreement will enable the Ministers to adopt policies, decisions and provide guidance on the promotion and coordination of the management, development, and equitable utilisation of the shared water resources. 

“During the Commission Sitting, the four countries will sign a commitment to implement the Integrated Transboundary River Basin Management for the Sustainable Development of the Limpopo River Basin.

“The agreement will strengthen South Africa’s relations with the three riparian states which share the basin and use water from the river to support various socio-economic activities, including agriculture, tourism, energy generation, as well as for domestic use,” the department said.

National Water Month

Meanwhile, Mchunu and his Deputies, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, together with Vhembe District Municipality Mayor, Freda Nkondo, will on Friday engage with the community of Musina at Musina Showgrounds, to provide feedback and progress made to address water supply challenges in the area. 

The two-day activities form part of the annual National Water Month host by the Department of Water and Sanitation in March.

The National Water Month is South Africa's expansion of World Water Day, which is observed on 22 March and focuses attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.

This year’s World Water Day will be observed under the theme ‘Water for Peace’, which focuses on the critical role water plays in the stability and prosperity of the world. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 03/11/2024 - 12:47

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Read moreSA, Zimbabwe to sign agreement for treated water transfer to Musina
11 March 2024

Budget-friendly batch cocktails: A solution to rising sin taxes

Location: MyPR

How to stretch your booze budget… batch cocktails are your friends when it comes to hassle-free entertaining at home. With the recent budget announcements of sin tax increases on alcohol (R5.53 on each bottle of spirits for starters) serving cocktails at parties, braais or sundowners with friends just got more expensive. But there’s no need …

Read moreBudget-friendly batch cocktails: A solution to rising sin taxes
11 March 2024

Mchunu assesses Eastern Cape state of water and sanitation

Location: News

Mchunu assesses Eastern Cape state of water and sanitation

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu will be meeting the Water Service Authorities (WSAs) and local municipalities in the Eastern Cape to assess the state of water and sanitation in the province.

The visits, from 10 – 12 March 2024 in East London and Gqeberha, form part of ongoing and concerted efforts by Mchunu to find solutions to a multitude of challenges faced by various municipalities in the provision of water and sanitation services to communities they serve. 

This comes against the backdrop of the Water Services Authority Summit held in January this year with the 144 WSAs in the country to deal with water challenges in identified municipalities.

During his three-day visit to the province, Mchunu will meet with the Executive Mayors from Alfred Nzo, OR Tambo, Chris Hani, Joe Gqabi, Sarah Baartman and Amathole Districts, and Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City Metros, as well mayors from local municipalities and municipal managers. 

“Municipalities are expected to present on strategic schemes delayed, turn-around plans, boreholes, bulk, sanitation, and any other infrastructure,” the department said.

The Minister will be joined by his deputies, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, and Eastern Cape Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Zolile Williams. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/11/2024 - 13:14

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Read moreMchunu assesses Eastern Cape state of water and sanitation
11 March 2024

20 Outdoor adventures to try this Easter on the KZN South Coast!

Location: MyPR

The subtropical climate and breathtaking scenery make the KZN South Coast a must-visit destination this Easter. From the Blue Flag beaches to the lush hinterland, this action-packed destination is an outdoor adventurer’s dream! “There is a growing trend of travel-based experiences that can either be relaxing or adrenaline-inducing – but all fun!” says Deborah Ludick, …

Read more20 Outdoor adventures to try this Easter on the KZN South Coast!
11 March 2024

Why a farmer is riding from Zimbabwe to Windhoek on a horse

Location: News

Ben Freeth will petition for the reinstatement of the SADC Tribunal

Read moreWhy a farmer is riding from Zimbabwe to Windhoek on a horse
11 March 2024

Book into the Sapphire Coast for the Galleria Mall Challenge now!

Location: MyPR

Runners and walkers will get another chance to enjoy the stunning Sapphire Coast with the first-ever Galleria Mall Challenge – organised by Amanzimtoti Athletics Club and supported by Sapphire Coast Tourism – taking place in Amanzimtoti on Sunday, 7 April. This is a great opportunity to spend a weekend enjoying the beautiful beaches and tourist …

Read moreBook into the Sapphire Coast for the Galleria Mall Challenge now!
10 March 2024

Kempsdale Dam wall expansion to ensure reliable water supply

Location: News

Kempsdale Dam wall expansion to ensure reliable water supply

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, is looking forward to the start of construction to raise the Kempsdale Dam Wall from four meters to 7.8 meters in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal. 

According to the Minister, the expansion will address the current water shortages and secure future demand for the Greater Kokstad community.

Mchunu further reiterated government’s commitment to fast-track service delivery projects, particularly those meant for the provision of adequate and consistent water supply, as water is one of the essential services and a basic human right.

The Minister was on a working visit in Kokstad, in the Harry Gwala District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal on Friday. 

The Executive Mayor of the District, Councillor Zamo Nxumalo joined him in conducting a sod-turning ceremony to signal the handover of the raising of Kempsdale Dam wall to the appointed contractor. 

The delegations included Greater Kokstad Mayor, Councillor Lwanda Madikizela, other local mayors from the district, traditional authorities, and departmental and municipal officials. 

The R160 million project, which is anticipated to take three years to complete, is envisaged to boost raw water capacity in the dam to meet a projected future demand up to 2040. 

The project will also ensure there is an adequate, safe, reliable, and sustainable potable water supply in areas such as Kokstad town, Kokstad C-Max prison, and Shayamoya and Bhongweni areas. 

“The development involves the raising of the existing Kempsdale Dam wall height from four meters to 7.8 meters and the construction of a new pump station downstream of the dam to be treated at the already existing 18 megalitres per day Kokstad Water Treatment Works,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS explained. 

The current water demand for Kokstad is 10.35 millilitres per day and is estimated to increase to 14.45 millilitres per day by 2030. 

The project will benefit eight wards within the Greater Kokstad Local Municipality with uninterrupted, adequate and clean water supply upon completion of the collaborative initiative between the DWS, municipalities concerned, farming communities, businesses and residents.  

Speaking at the construction site during the handover, Mchunu and Nxumalo indicated that the Kempsdale Dam wall would ensure there is enough water storage which will be supplied to the communities. 

“What is happening today is a culmination of what the district has been doing with our support. there is going to be quite a substantial increase of the dam wall, it is clear that the water services here in Kokstad are working very well,” Mchunu said.  

The District Mayor echoed the Minister’s sentiments and highlighted that water supply interruptions would now be a thing of the past. 

“The project is aimed at alleviating water challenges in Greater Kokstad Local Municipality for a period of 50 to 100 years, and this will be dependent on the development of the area,” Nxumalo stated.  

The leaders also took the opportunity to engage various stakeholders and the community of Kokstad. 

Mchunu acknowledged there were challenges. However, he reiterated government’s commitment to ensure that basic services such as water and sanitation are provided to the people and made an undertaking that the situation will improve. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 03/10/2024 - 11:17

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Read moreKempsdale Dam wall expansion to ensure reliable water supply
10 March 2024

Eco-Wisdom: Proven, Implementable Strategies to Living Green

Location: MyPR

The earth’s natural resources such as clean water, fossil fuels, and even arable land, are finite. This is why, if we are to preserve them for future generations, we have to use these resources efficiently and responsibly. Orrin Cottle, CEO of Brahman Hills, home to spectacular views and luxurious 4- and 5-star accommodation in the …

Read moreEco-Wisdom: Proven, Implementable Strategies to Living Green
9 March 2024

Mbombela warned to fix water crisis as taps in several villages run dry

Location: News

“The last time we saw a drop of water coming out of the tap was about 15 years ago,” says villager

Read moreMbombela warned to fix water crisis as taps in several villages run dry
8 March 2024

Over 14 000 youths employed in KZN greening project

Location: News

Over 14 000 youths employed in KZN greening project

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Environmental Affairs, Siboniso Duma, has announced that the department has employed 14 714 young people as part of the greening revolution.  

The provincial Department of Environmental Affairs, guided by the agenda adopted by the Council on Climate Change, is rolling out initiatives aimed at protecting the environment. 

Municipalities have experienced a number of extreme weather patterns in the past five years, ranging from drought and heat waves to extreme storms, bringing severe lightning and flooding.

“We are cognisant of the unfortunate reality that ordinary members of society are the first to bear the brutal brunt of such impacts and climate change. The destruction of socio-economic infrastructure and our economy is our major concern.

“For these reasons, we have employed more than 14 714 energetic youth who will be foot soldiers,” the department said. 

The responsibility of the newly employed young people will include the following:
 
•    Protecting the environment.
•    Accelerating the implementation of climate change mitigation measures.
•    Fighting the impact of waste.
•    Fighting invasive plants.

The department highlighted said there is a "silent army" marching across the province that looks harmless, yet it is growing by the day. 

“This ‘army’ is depleting the province's water supply. It is intensifying wildfires, reducing agricultural productivity, and threatening globally significant biodiversity.

“This army is what we call invasive alien species. There are more than 539 registered alien plants. Invasive species steadily diminish water resources, as they typically use significantly more water than native vegetation.

“Critically, the greening revolution involves grassroots mobilisation against littering and illegal dumping. Litter is often carried by stormwater systems and streams into rivers and in coastal areas, into the ocean, where it impacts negatively on our beaches and freshwater marine life,” the department said. 

The department said that the greening revolution is the launch of its unprecedented effort to ensure that KwaZulu-Natal becomes greener, cleaner, sustainable and prosperous. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 11:54

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Read moreOver 14 000 youths employed in KZN greening project
8 March 2024

Treverton College celebrates its 60th year with an adventure

Location: MyPR

The Thukela River, meaning ‘that which startles’ is the second largest river in South Africa. Treverton College, celebrating its 60th year in 2024, adequately chose a great adventure to mark this significant year. The Thukela Source-to-Sea expedition aims to paddle the length of the Thukela River, 550 km of rapids and white water. A team …

Read moreTreverton College celebrates its 60th year with an adventure
8 March 2024

The only event of its kind in South Africa: It’s time to dive into the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 2024

Location: MyPR

The country’s first-of-its-kind open water swim, organised exclusively by charities for charities, is returning to Durban’s shores this winter! The Oceans 8 Charity Swim, fast becoming an iconic local event, will take place at Durban Undersea Club on 15 and 16 June 2024 in a 1 Mile, 4 Mile, and 8 Mile format. Spaces are …

Read moreThe only event of its kind in South Africa: It’s time to dive into the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 2024
8 March 2024

Blikkiesdorp community protest after years of waiting for houses

Location: News

They say their structures are falling apart and the area has become unliveable

Read moreBlikkiesdorp community protest after years of waiting for houses
8 March 2024

Call for improvement in efforts to deal with new alien species

Location: News

Call for improvement in efforts to deal with new alien species

With new alien species continuing to arrive in the country every year, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, has called for enhanced efforts to prevent the introduction of new invasive species through vigilance at borders and risk analyses.

“Early detection and rapid response systems should be strengthened to identify and eradicate invaders before they become established. We must continue investing in research and innovation, supporting studies that enhance our understanding of invasive species dynamics to improve management strategies,” Creecy said on Friday in Pretoria.

The Minister was addressing the launch of the report on the 3rd National Status of Biological Invasions and their Management in South Africa, which shows that over the last decade, 32 new alien species were either illegally or accidentally introduced, a rate of approximately three introductions per year.

“It is essential to recognise that the impacts of biological invasions extend beyond the realm of biodiversity alone. They have far-reaching consequences on our economy, agriculture, water resources and public health. Invasive species can devastate agricultural lands, leading to reduced crop yields and increased production costs.

“They can also impair water quality, clog waterways, and impact our ability to access clean drinking water. Additionally, some invasive species pose risks to human health by acting as carriers of diseases or causing allergic reactions,” the Minister said.

She said the national status report on biological invasions serves as a clarion call for action and is a reminder of the urgency of the situation and the imperative to act decisively.

“By working together, we can protect our natural heritage, restore damaged ecosystems and secure a sustainable future for South Africa. I urge all stakeholders to embrace the findings of this report.

“Let us unite in our resolve to address the challenges of biological invasions, ensuring that South Africa remains a beacon of biodiversity and a sanctuary for our precious indigenous plants, animals and ecosystems that support sustainable development and human wellbeing,” Creecy said.

South Africa has an innovative regulatory system to address biological invasions, with decisions being more directly informed by the available scientific evidence.

“For example, all legal introductions of new alien species require import permits and are issued only if the risks are demonstrated to be sufficiently low. In addition, the new National Border Management Authority has committed to improving the prevention of illegal and accidental introductions,” the Minister said.

The report shows that invasive species, in particular trees and freshwater fishes, have major negative impacts on people and nature across the country by reducing South Africa’s water resources, degrading pasturelands and exacerbating fires.

“In mountain catchments, we are seeing pine trees using up water, increasing the intensity of wildfires, and crowding out biodiversity. Alien freshwater fishes are invading our water resources, reducing the diversity of our native fishes and other aquatic organisms,” the Minister said.

Between 2020 and 2022, government invested over R1.5 billion to address biological invasions, targeting priority areas such as strategic water source areas, protected areas and biodiversity hotspots.

“These interventions have also created much-needed employment, especially in rural areas. Several notable initiatives by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) raised over R180 million from the private sector to fund the control of invasive freshwater fishes and alien plants in the water catchments around Cape Town. This model could be replicated across other catchments and priority areas,” the Minister said.

According to the report, there are 44 alien species on Marion Island, over half of which are invasive, while there are eight alien species present on Prince Edward Island, all of which are invasive.

“Biological invasions on the Prince Edward Islands are being addressed through effective biosecurity and on-island management. The house mouse is the most harmful alien species on Marion Island. The mice feed on plants, invertebrates, and endangered seabirds.

“They also affect ecosystem processes such as sediment movement rates and nutrient cycling. Bold plans to eradicate the house mouse from Marion Island have been developed and are due to be implemented in 2027.

“The eradication of mice from Marion Island is essential if its unique biodiversity is to be preserved. There is, however, still much work to be done,” the Minister said.

Link to the report: https://www.sanbi.org/resources/documents/. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 12:53

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Read moreCall for improvement in efforts to deal with new alien species
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