Tshwane’s derelict homeless shelter
“These children grow up in a dirty and dangerous place”
Water
Savanna Origin of Trails brings a “taste” of the MTB Party of the Year to Bloemendal Trail Park
Mountain biking enthusiasts are invited to join the organisers of the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience at a fun Training Ride #1 that will take place at the Bloemendal Trail Park in Durbanville on Saturday 07 October 2023 starting with coffee at 07:00. “We are thrilled to offer local mountain biking enthusiasts a sneak …
Futurelife®, And Pepsico South Africa, Celebrate Modern R75 Million Factory Opening
La Mercy, Kwa-Zulu Natal — FUTURELIFE®, a leading South African food company and wholly-owned by PepsiCo South Africa, is excited to announce the opening of its new manufacturing facility in the Dube Trade Zone, Kwa-Zulu Natal. This milestone reflects FUTURELIFE®’s ongoing commitment to nutrition, innovation, growth, and community empowerment. With this R75 million investment, FUTURELIFE® …
W Cape calls for caution on the roads
W Cape calls for caution on the roads
The MEC of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, Anton Bredell, has called for holidaymakers to plan their travels carefully as several roads remain closed following the floods.
“It is the start of the school holidays in the Western Cape, and we are asking people to consider their plans for traveling very carefully, as several roads are still closed, have only limited lane access, or stop-go arrangements in place,” Bredell said at a briefing on Friday.
Bredell said currently, there is a stop-go arrangement on the N1 in De Doorns, which will be in place for at least three months. The N2 is closed outside Botriver; the R43 is closed in the direction towards Villiersdorp; Hemel and Aarde Road is closed towards Hermanus, and the R321 is closed from Molteno in the direction of Villiersdorp.
Updates on road closures can be viewed at: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/news/latest-road-closures.
“Hermanus suffered extensive damages to water supply infrastructure during the floods, and emergency services are currently supplying water with trucks and tankers for the entire community.
“If you are planning to visit, please be considerate to water trucks on the road. Please bring water along for your own needs, and it would be much appreciated if you could also bring a few litres extra for someone in the affected community,” Bredell said.
The City of Cape Town has updated its numbers of communities in need. Bredell said 21 011 people and 6 906 structures have been confirmed as impacted. Assessments are still outstanding for Covid Settlement, LA Burundi, and Strongyard in Mfuleni.
The MEC said relief efforts continue to reach rural communities still cut off due to roads being washed away.
“We are concerned about farm worker families, especially in the Breede River Municipality, and are doing everything in our power to connect and support everybody in need.”
Bredell said the severe storm has kept 16 Western Cape schools closed, down from 39 closed on Tuesday and 21 closed on Wednesday. We are pleased that the recovery effort is proceeding quickly, allowing schools to reopen successfully.
“Our officials are working with schools to ensure that all can reopen as soon as possible, and we encourage parents to keep in contact with their school for updates regarding closures.
“We thank the emergency services, our government and NGO partners, and our schools for the assistance they are rendering to our teachers, learners, and parents as we recover from this devastating storm,” said David Maynier, the Western Cape MEC for Education.
Bredell thanked Eskom for working 24/7 to rectify faults and repair damaged infrastructure caused by the severe weather.
“We know there are still problems in the system, but we were assured by Eskom that they are working as fast as possible under difficult conditions to address these outstanding problems,” Bredell said.
Local disaster centres
To stay up to date with events in your immediate area, Bredell gave out the following contact details:
Cape Winelands: 021-886-9244 / 021-8874446
Eden District: 044 805 5071
Central Karoo: 023 449 8000
West Coast: 022 433 8700
Overberg: 028 4251690
City of Cape Town: 107 landline or 021 480 7700 and 080 911 4357 (City of Cape Town Disaster Management Centre).
NGOs, including the SA Red Cross Society, Gift of the Givers, Islamic Relief, and Mustadafin are providing support in the Cape Winelands District Municipality, Overberg District Municipality, Breede Valley Municipality, Drakenstein, and towns in the Langeberg Municipality, such as Ashton and McGregor.
This includes support extended to agri-workers and their families:
- 186 families, and 741 individuals in small towns and farms have been reached with aid.
- In the City of Cape Town, 10 282 people were provided with meals.
- Social workers and community development workers are conducting outreaches with local municipality officials.
Donation drop-off points
Donations required include blankets, water, dry and non-perishable food, baby food, toiletries and dignity packs.
If you would like to drop off donations, please feel free to contact the following SA Red Cross Society offices:
1.Wynberg Provincial Office
21 Broad Road, Wynberg
021 7975360 / 0609037473
2. Greyton
11 Pointers Weg, Heuwelkroon, Greyton
028 254 9378 / 0761335777
Charanine Cupido
3. Hermanus Office
2A Aberdeen Street,
Hermanus
072 609 8655
Angela Heslop
4. Knysna Office
25 Trotter Street, Knysna
044 382 1244
Tania Cole
- SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Sat, 09/30/2023 - 15:13
258 views
W Cape records increase in dam levels after heavy rains
W Cape records increase in dam levels after heavy rains
The national Department of Water and Sanitation’s hydrological report of 26 September indicates significant improvement across the Western Cape dam system following the disruption of heavy rainfall in the past few days.
The Cape Town System Dams increased by more than 7% compared to last week, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said on Friday.
The Western Cape Water Supply System (WCWSS) -- comprising six dams (Theewaterskloof, Bergriver dam, Upper and Lower Steebras, Voelvlei and Wemershoek dams) supplying water to the City of Cape Town and its surroundings -- is sitting at 109.38%, a significant improvement compared to 85% same time last year.
On individual dams, Theewaterskloof, the biggest dam in the Western Cape, which accounts for 54% of the province's water supply, is at 100% and spilling.
Other dam levels are standing as follows: Misverstand Dam 152.67%; Brandvlei Dam 80.91%; Ceres Dam 101.16%; Gamka Dam 102.49%; Clanwilliam Dam 101.38% and Miertjieskraal 111.71%.
The Olifants / Doorn River Catchment has reached the 100% mark, a very healthy water yield compared to 86.71% of last year.
“It is pleasing to see that Gouritz River Catchment is hovering above 80%, as the system was below 50% at the same time last year.
“Some dams have sluice gates, while others do not have sluice gates. When the dams are full or overflowing, water is automatically released through spillways to control the flow downstream,” the department said.
While DWS is pleased with the significant rainfall, it has acknowledged that the heavy rains and adverse weather conditions have led to significant damage of infrastructure and detrimentally affected lives and livelihoods, especially those in riverbanks and low-lying areas.
“DWS continues to urge citizens to be careful near water resources and facilities, including crossing low-lying bridges.
“The department is currently conducting assessments on the infrastructure and there are no immediate reports of extensive water infrastructure (gauging stations) being damaged or washed away.
“DWS, together with other stakeholders, is monitoring the situation.” – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Sat, 09/30/2023 - 15:44
167 views
Western Cape working to restore services after severe storm
Western Cape working to restore services after severe storm
The Western Cape Provincial Government has urged flood-ravaged municipalities to compile damage assessments for provincial government to present a disaster declaration motivation to the National Disaster Management Centre.
Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, said the provincial government needs a national disaster declaration in order for the municipalities to qualify for potential assistance.
Bredell said the provincial government is working to restore services and calculating the costs of the severe storm.
He said the City of Cape Town’s assessment shows that 3 986 structures and 4 449 people are in need of assistance, with more than 30 areas still needing to be formally assessed.
“The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) reported that a stop-and-go is in place on the N1 at De Doorns. The N2 section that washed away at Botriver has been visited by engineers, and there are discussions with the SANDF to provide a temporary solution with a mobile bridge for the short-term.
“Sir Lowry’s Pass is confirmed open. Pringle Bay and Bredasdorp are still without cell reception and a helicopter has been made available to assist restoring the infrastructure located in mountainous area,” Bredell said.
Noting some of the interventions by provincial government, Bredell said water tankers from other municipalities are being sent to Overstrand Local Municipality to assist.
In Breede River Municipality, the MEC reported that several farms are still inaccessible due to roads being washed away. He said plans are being made to provide the affected people with food and other essentials.
“Work is progressing in Franschhoek, which is currently divided into two inaccessible parts, and the CBD is still without electricity. Road access should be restored in the next 24 hours.
“Eskom reported that major faults are being restored, and power in affected areas in Khayelitsha and Caledon should be restored by [Thursday night]. Smaller faults will be attended to as soon as possible,” Bredell said.
Bredell said he has also written to President Cyril Ramaphosa requesting assistance with humanitarian aid.
“This is now the number one priority, and we need urgent support from the Department of Social Development and the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to reach especially people in rural and isolated areas. We are also requesting engineering support from the SANDF to help with temporary roads and bridges, as well as aerial support to help with evacuations and logistics in inaccessible areas.
“Donations are being coordinated by the Red Cross, and anyone wishing to donate is encouraged to contact them. Relief work is being conducted throughout all the affected areas, with 3 250 people currently receiving food from aid agencies, as coordinated by SASSA,” Bredell said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 12:01
386 views
Mashatile calls for accelerated service delivery in communities across SA
Mashatile calls for accelerated service delivery in communities across SA
Accelerated service delivery is not a luxury but a necessity, says Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
“It is a human right, as enshrined in our Constitution. It is the key to unlocking the full potential of our communities and ensuring a brighter future for generations to come,” he said on Friday.
The Deputy President was speaking in the North West, as part of the Thuntsha Lerole Accelerated Service Delivery Programme, in Taung.
By adopting modern technologies and employing well-trained personnel, he said government could drastically improve response times and minimise the damage caused by emergencies.
“It is important to recognise that accelerated service delivery is not just about efficiency and convenience, it is about creating a society where every individual has equal access to basic services and an equal say in how their community is governed and serviced.”
By empowering communities with faster and more efficient services, he said the state could bridge socioeconomic gaps, reduce inequalities, and ensure a better quality of life.
“Achieving accelerated service delivery requires collective effort. Governments, private sector organisations, and civil society must work together to identify and address the key challenges in service delivery.”
He believes that collaboration, innovation and investment in technology and infrastructure are essential to create a robust ecosystem that supports accelerated service delivery.
He took the time to reflect on the Bill of Rights, contained in Chapter 2 of the Constitution, which guarantees all South Africans basic human rights and recognises basic services as a human right.
The Constitution, he said, serves to codify the fundamental entitlements of individuals and communities, while validating the democratic principles of inherent worth, parity, and human dignity.
“Section 10 focuses on human dignity. It specifically states that ‘everyone has inherent dignity and the right to have their dignity respected and protected’.
“If this is the case, a Councillor, MEC or Minister who fails to provide services to the people neither respects nor protects the dignity of the people. As such, when that happens, the Constitution is contravened. And this should never be allowed.”
The country’s second-in-command commended provincial leadership for their commitment to focus on job creation and accelerated service delivery – the Thuntsa Lerole intervention.
The programme, he told the community, is aligned with the District Development Model (DDM), designed to address service delivery.
“The DDM enables all spheres of government to better plan, budget and implement projects and programmes,” he explained.
The Deputy President believes that communities will benefit from more integrated service delivery as a result of this commitment and collaboration directed by the DDM.
“As a party that has been in power for almost three decades in South Africa, we have made commitments to improve the lives of the people of South Africa and deliver essential services such as housing, education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure to all South Africans…
“It is important to note that we have made significant strides in certain areas of service delivery.”
Access to clean drinking water, he pointed out, has improved for many communities, while social grants have provided a safety net for the most vulnerable.
“However, the overall delivery and implementation of these promises have sometimes fallen short of expectations, with lingering challenges that need urgent attention.”
The Deputy President took time to apologise for the recent technical glitch that led to grant beneficiaries not receiving their critical grant support on time.
Meanwhile, he also touched on public safety, which he is of the view that should be a priority.
“Timely response to emergencies, effective disaster management, and robust law enforcement are all vital components of a safe and secure community,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 14:40
200 views
Children frolic in flood water as only pool in Brown’s Farm remains closed
The pool in Philippi has been closed since August when it was vandalised during the taxi protests
Water and Sanitation interacts with political leaders and councilors on water supply issues
Deputy Ministers of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, and Rand Water Board Chairperson, Mr Ramateu Monyokolo, yesterday (27 September 2023) interacted with the political leaders and the councilors of City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and the City of Tshwane, on ways to resolve water supply issues in the municipalities.
This was a day two of the sites visit by the Ministry of Water and Sanitation to assess areas affected by water shortages in the three metros including the City of Johannesburg.
Recent water supply challenges within some municipalities in Gauteng province prompted Minister Senzo Mchunu, together with Deputy Ministers, Mr David Mahlobo and Ms Judith Tshabalala to embark on a two-day fact-finding mission on 26-27 September 2023, the three metros which were the most affected municipalities with water shortages. The main purpose of the visits was to establish the problems and the plans that the municipalities have to remedy the situation.
On Tuesday, Minister Mchunu met the leadership of the City of Johannesburg and the communities of South Hills and Ebony Park. These are some of the areas that were also hardest hit by water shortages in recent weeks. The event led to a meeting that was convened in the evening on the same day with various stakeholders to come up with immediate solutions to the situation.
On Wednesday, Deputy Minister Mahlobo met with the leadership of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and was informed that most areas do not have reliable water supply for a prolonged period. This led to the community of Makause informal settlement in Tsakane, to embark on a protracted protest action about lack of water in the area.
The main cause of lack of water is intermittent power cuts that affect the reservoir pump stations to pump more water and the low water levels of the water storage reservoirs in the City.
Brakpan reservoir, responsible for supplying water to Duduza, KwaThema, and Tsakane, was at a low point of 35% instead of the required 60%-70%. The low levels of the reservoirs affected water supply to most high lying areas in the area.
Deputy Minister Judith Tshabalala also had an engagement with the councillors of Etwatwa Township, in Ekurhuleni. She has reiterated the problem of high percentages of water loss and sewer spillages in the municipality. She urged the councilors to prioritise issues of water and sanitation because when neglected, they amount to a violation of human rights to the community members of Ekurhuleni.
The entourage proceeded to Soshanguve and Waterkloof in the City of Tshwane, which were also experiencing supply challenges as a result of low capacity in reservoirs.
Deputy Minister Mahlobo also encouraged the municipalities to impose Level 1 water restrictions, especially on water consumers who use water for gardening and irrigation.
In as much as there was water supply challenges in some municipalities of Gauteng, Deputy Minister Mahlobo highlighted that there was a high availability of water in the province's Integrated Vaal River System. He said the bulk supplier of water to municipalities, Rand Water, is treating and supplying more water to municipalities than it used to.
“There should not be a problem of water availability in Gauteng because some of the municipalities get more water than they are licensed to have. Rand Water is also abstracting and treating more water supplied to Gauteng municipalities than it used to. However, there are high percentages of loss of water (Non-Revenue Water) due to water leaks, illegal connections, ageing and vandalism of water infrastructure in municipalities. Water is therefore being lost before it can even reach the communities,” said Deputy Minister Mahlobo.
Following the two days engagements, Rand Water and the Municipalities have committed to work on an immediate water management plan including implementing water-shifting, as an interim measure to stabilise the system of the storage reservoirs that are currently low.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa.
Gauteng urged to improve water supply management
Gauteng urged to improve water supply management
The Water and Sanitation Ministry has called for improved water supply and management of water resources to ensure provision and reliability of supply in Gauteng.
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, said in as much as there are water supply challenges in some municipalities in Gauteng, there is a high availability of water in the province’s Integrated Vaal River System.
Mahlobo said the bulk supplier of water to municipalities, Rand Water, is treating and supplying more water to municipalities than it used to.
“There should not be a problem of water availability in Gauteng because some of the municipalities get more water than they are licensed to have. Rand Water is also abstracting and treating more water supplied to Gauteng municipalities than it used to.
“However, there are high percentages of loss of water (non-revenue water) due to water leaks, illegal connections, ageing and vandalism of water infrastructure in municipalities. Water is therefore being lost before it can even reach the communities,” Mahlobo said.
Mahlobo also encouraged the municipalities to impose Level 1 water restrictions, especially on water consumers who use water for gardening and irrigation.
Deputy Ministers, Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, and Rand Water Board Chairperson, Ramateu Monyokolo, this week interacted with the political leaders and councillors of the City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and City of Tshwane, on ways to resolve water supply issues in the municipalities.
The two-day site visits by the ministry were aimed at assessing areas affected by water shortages in Gauteng metros.
The recent water supply challenges within some municipalities in Gauteng Province prompted Minister Senzo Mchunu, together with his two Deputy Ministers, to embark on a fact-finding mission on the three metros, including the City of Ekurhuleni, City of Tshwane and City of Johannesburg, which are the most affected municipalities with water shortages.
The department said the main purpose of the visits was to establish the problems and the plans that the municipalities have to remedy the situation.
On Tuesday, Mchunu met with the leadership of the City of Johannesburg and the communities of South Hills and Ebony Park, which are some of the areas that are also hardest hit by water shortages in recent weeks.
The event led to a meeting held in the evening with various stakeholders to come up with immediate solutions to the situation.
On Wednesday, Mahlobo met with the leadership of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and was informed that most areas do not have reliable water supply for a prolonged period. This led to the community of Makause informal settlement in Tsakane, to embark on a protracted protest action about lack of water in the area.
The department noted that lack of water is mainly due to intermittent power cuts that affect the reservoir pump stations to pump more water, and the low water levels of the water storage reservoirs in the city.
“Brakpan reservoir, responsible for supplying water to Duduza, KwaThema and Tsakane, is at a low point of 35% instead of the required 60% - 70%. The low levels of the reservoirs affected water supply to most high-lying areas in the area,” the department said.
During a meeting with the councillors of Etwatwa Township in Ekurhuleni, Tshabalala also reiterated the problem of high percentages of water loss and sewer spillages in the municipality.
She urged the councillors to prioritise issues of water and sanitation, warning that “when neglected, they amount to a violation of human rights to the community members of Ekurhuleni.”
Rand Water and the Municipalities have committed to work on an immediate water management plan, including implementing water-shifting, as an interim measure to stabilise the system of the storage reservoirs that are currently low. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 10:27
165 views
Fresh water fishers demand formal recognition of their livelihoods
Masifundise inland fisheries report says sector needs government help
SIU probe into Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works tender welcomed
SIU probe into Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works tender welcomed
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has welcomed the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into allegations of maladministration and corruption related to the R295 million tender to refurbish and upgrade the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works in the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality.
Mchunu said the mismanagement of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment plant funds will remain "etched in the mind of many South Africans as lives were lost due to alleged improper conduct”.
“We welcome the investigation into the allegations of unlawful and improper conduct related to the tender awarded by the City of Tshwane.
“We believe that the SIU will do a thorough investigation on maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud against any person or entities that were responsible. We also hope that the SIU will recover any financial losses suffered by the State,” Mchunu said.
The investigation into the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works will resume following the signing of a proclamation by President Cyril Ramaphosa which authorises the SIU to probe the tender of Phase 1 of the upgrades and urgent refurbishment at the wastewater treatment plant.
The plant receives wastewater from Atteridgeville, Pretoria’s central business district, Pretoria North, Soshanguve South and Rosslyn.
However, due to problems with operations and maintenance, the treated effluent from the waste water treatment works is of sub-standard and it continuously discharges into the Apies River and the Leeuwkraal Dam, resulting in poor water quality in Leeuwkraal Dam.
The Temba Water Treatment Works (WTW) abstracts water from the Leeuwkraal Dam for purification and supply to the Hammanskraal area. As a result, the water produced at the Temba plant is of poor quality and not potable.
On 20 August 2019, the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) declared that water in Hammanskraal was not fit for human consumption. This followed tests on the water with the help of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) after residents lodged complaints with it.
Mchunu said the department has on numerous occasions engaged with the City of Tshwane on the poor quality of effluent released from the Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works.
The department has made interventions, including the western side of Hammanskraal (Refentse), which was supplied with water from the water supply pipelines in Soshanguve, and the Eastern part of Hammanskraal, which was supplied with water by Magalies Water.
However, Mchunu said the central part of Temba is still experiencing problems with the quality of drinking water.
“The Department of Water and Sanitation and the City of Tshwane have formed a partnership to repair and upgrade the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works, and it is estimated that the cost of a full rehabilitation and upgrade of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works will be in the region of R4 billion.
“The Development Bank of Southern Africa will be appointed as an independent implementing agent to manage the design and construction work, whereas the department and the City of Tshwane will form a joint steering committee to oversee the project,” Mchunu explained.
The project will be implemented in stages with an emphasis on work to stop or reduce the pollution from Rooiwal in the early stages. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 12:53
627 views
South Africa, Lesotho BNC kicks off
South Africa, Lesotho BNC kicks off
South Africa places great importance on its bilateral relations with its Southern African neighbour, the Kingdom of Lesotho.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was delivering the opening address of the Inaugural Session of the South Africa – Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Pretoria.
According to the Presidency, the BNC session follows an agreement signed by the two countries in November 2021 to elevate the structured bilateral mechanism from a Joint Bilateral Commission of Co-operation (JBCC) that is held at a ministerial level, to a BNC that is presided over by the two Heads of State and Government.
“Our relationship is anchored in historic bonds of language, culture and heritage. We recall with gratitude that the Kingdom of Lesotho provided shelter and support to South Africa’s liberation movements during the struggle against apartheid,” President Ramaphosa said.
On issues of the economy, the President highlighted that economic ties between the two countries have been fruitful for both nations.
He added that the elevation of the BNC from its previous iteration to one led by the two leaders is testament of the commitment to deepening economic relations.
“Economic relations between our two countries have grown over the years and continue to mutually benefit our respective peoples. South African businesses in Lesotho contribute to job creation while Lesotho’s water resources continue to benefit South Africa.
“It is important for the governments of both countries to work together to resolve challenges faced by businesses and put in place mechanisms to ensure that investments are protected. The elevation of the Joint Bilateral Commission of Cooperation between South Africa and Lesotho to a Bi-National Commission is a testament to the unwavering commitment by our two countries to further bolster our relations for mutual benefit,” President Ramaphosa said.
Water and energy resources
Touching on issues of water supply, the President emphasised the rising importance of the water cooperation through the jointly driven Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
“South Africa highly appreciates the cooperation on water resources between the two countries. In particular, we welcome Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project as a vital development to enhance water security in the Gauteng province and other parts of South Africa.
“The Lesotho Highlands Water Project also contributes to job creation in Lesotho and the construction of new roads, bringing access to previously inaccessible areas of Lesotho. South Africa is ready to cooperate with Lesotho to resolve any challenges that may arise in the implementation of the project,” he said.
President Ramaphosa urged greater cooperation between the two countries on the development of renewable energy.
“South Africa is keen to work with the Kingdom of Lesotho on the four proposed renewable energy projects. In the face of the worsening effects of climate change, we need to be making significant investments to ensure water and energy security for our peoples into the future.
“Our respective ministers should continue their engagements so that we can see progress on these proposed developments,” he said.
Illegal mining
President Ramaphosa commended the Lesotho government on its “commitment…to cooperate with South Africa to deal with challenges of illegal mining in our country”.
“Such activity carries a great social and economic cost for both our countries. We were deeply saddened by the unfortunate loss of the lives of illegal miners in Harmony Gold Mine in Welkom.
“Our respective governments are working with the mining company on the best methods and plan to retrieve the bodies of the miners without endangering the rescue personnel,” President Ramaphosa said. - SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 13:07
801 views
Cape Town backyard dwellers doorstop housing officials at Civic Centre
“People die waiting for a house,” says backyarder from Hanover Park
Inaugural Bi-National Commission deepens South Africa, Lesotho ties
Inaugural Bi-National Commission deepens South Africa, Lesotho ties
South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho have held frank and fruitful bilateral discussions on wide ranging issues during the Inaugural Session of the South Africa – Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC).
This according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who hosted his counterpart, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho Ntsokoane Matekane and that country’s delegation for the BNC in Pretoria on Thursday.
President Ramaphosa described the BNC as a “great opportunity to take stock of our bilateral relations as well as cooperation in a number of fields”.
“We have now come to the end of our inaugural bi-national where we’ve held outstanding deliberations between our two countries. Deliberations that have been frank and direct and in many ways also very fruitful. We’ve covered a lot of ground.
“We remain forever grateful for the strong ties that exist between our countries and peoples. The work we have just completed is the continuation of our endeavours towards the realisation of our shared aspirations,” President Ramaphosa said.
The BNC was attended by Ministers and senior government officials from both countries who – preceding Thursday’s summit – discussed matters including water, energy, crime, environmental issues, trade and economic challenges affecting both countries.
“The comprehensive report that was presented by our respective Ministers captures the real essence and the state of our bilateral cooperation in detail and this in itself speaks of the healthy relationship between the two countries.
“A relationship that continues to broaden and deepens…encompassing a whole number of new areas as the world continues to develop,” President Ramaphosa said.
He impressed upon officials and Ministers at the BNC the importance of ensuring that existing agreements entered into between the two governments are implemented.
“We emerge from this Inaugural BNC with renewed energy and vigour for the task of building our economies and developing our two nations. We should use this mechanism of the Bi-National Commission…to enhance and consolidate the implementation of existing agreements to ensure that those agreements are not just put on the shelf and…forever not to be seen again.
“We want the agreements that we have entered into to be live agreements and to be agreements that are fully and properly implemented,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, President Ramaphosa reflected on the mutual future that the two nations have.
“Just as our two countries share common histories, so too do we share a common future.
“So we are bound together to work together to build a sustainable and a prosperous as well secure future for all the people of South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 14:34
73 views
Protesters block Bantom Road, Kariega amid five-day power outage
Nelson Mandela Bay councillor says many homes were plunged into dark after an explosion at the Mabandla substation
Bontera Spearheads Agri-Tech Innovation At International Food Security Forum The IOFS Hosts Global Innovators to Succor Stabilise the Future of Food Security
Food security remains a global challenge, and within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) geography, this security is beset by local challenges and the adverse impacts of climate change. To address these pressing issues and pave the way for a more sustainable and secure food future, Bontera is set to take centre stage at the …
Cabinet approves Draft Water Services Amendment Bill
Cabinet approves Draft Water Services Amendment Bill
Cabinet has approved the publication of the Water Services Amendment Bill for public comment.
The Bill aims to strengthen accountability for water service providers and to introduce transparency.
“The amendments to the Water Services Act will ensure that water service providers deliver high quality water as part of their licensing conditions.
“The amendments will also address weakness that have been identified in the water services sector, and these include conflict with water services providers being both providers and regulators. The Bill sets minimum standards for the functioning of Water Services Providers, which must be enforced by Water Services Authorities,” Cabinet said.
Draft National Water Amendment Bill
Cabinet has also approved the publication of the draft National Water Amendment Bill for public comment. The Bill amends the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998).
“These amendments will improve regulations and will ensure that the country’s water resources are well managed, protected and conserved. Once the amendments are implemented, there will be equitable allocation of water to all citizens of the country,” Cabinet said.
The Bill also makes proposals to eliminate the imbalances of the past relating to water allocation and makes provisions for effective and quicker internal dispute resolution mechanisms.
SABC Bill 2023
Cabinet has approved the submission of the SABC Bill, 2023 to Parliament.
Cabinet initially approved the Bill in 2022, however, the Office of the Chief State Law Advisor subsequently made suggestions on certain provisions of the Bill in order to align it with the constitution.
“Once passed into law, the Bill will result in the repeal of the current Broadcasting Act (Act 4 of 1999). The amendments will strengthen the efficiency of the operations of the public broadcaster. The Bill further proposes reforms in the SABC’s funding model and the TV licensing system,” Cabinet said.
The Bill encourages the SABC to align its broadcasting services with the democratic values of the Constitution and to enhance its mandate to serve citizens better. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 09/28/2023 - 11:31
105 views
South Africa’s Tourism Renaissance: A Journey of Growth and Innovation
By Jaco Minnaar, CEO of The Houghton Hotel, Spa, Wellness and Golf For hotel operators in South Africa, Tourism Month represents a unique business opportunity with the potential for substantial growth and sustainability. Jaco Minnaar, CEO of The Houghton Hotel, Spa, Wellness and Golf in Johannesburg, shares a heartening perspective on the state of tourism …
Mchunu calls for water shifting to address water outages
Mchunu calls for water shifting to address water outages
Water service authorities have been called on by Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, to implement water shifting as part of interim plans to address the challenges that have left some communities in Gauteng without water.
Mchunu held an engagement with community members from South Hill in Johannesburg on Tuesday, following the water supply challenges experienced in the area.
Residents in South Hills have been without water for over two weeks. Johannesburg Water advised that this was as a result of low levels in Rand Water’s Klipriviersberg reservoir, which was caused by the power failure at Rand Water’s Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Plant following the storm on 19 September 2023.
During the meeting, residents complained that while some of them have been without water for weeks, they have received high water bills.
The residents told the Minister that grievances are taken seriously only when they take to the streets. They further said there was zero accountability from the government regarding lack of basic service delivery.
Responding to the community members, Mchunu said decisions taken from the meeting should be implemented as soon as possible.
“We must not subject people to emotional stress all the time. Hold us accountable because water is a sensitive and emotional subject. We are focused on resolving the problems,” Mchunu said.
He said the issues that came from the meeting include accountability, water shifting, poor infrastructure, reservoirs and water conservation.
Regarding water shifting, Mchunu said Rand Water has assured him that they will do load shifting from a line that is not too busy and redirect to Palmiet, until the system recovers and is able to supply even high-lying areas.
“We are going to water shift as an interim measure. Technicians will be monitoring the system 24/7 as we shift water from systems to systems,” Mchunu explained.
The Minister called on Rand Water to have a set timeline for when the extra 150 mega litres will be made available from Station 5A.
He said the City of Johannesburg must start the process of replacing old leaking pipes to stop large volume of water being lost due to leaks.
“Water shifting is not a permanent solution, so we have to do something permanent to address this challenge. I support Joburg Water's initiative to construct a temporary pump station to assist with the turnaround recovery of water shortages.
“Joburg Water will share implementation plans and time frames regarding the development of the sump at the South Hills tower,” he said.
The Ministry of Water and Sanitation is currently conducting site visits to various areas in Gauteng that have been affected by water outages. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 13:50
520 views
As sinful as living in shacks, say flooded Qunu’s RDP residents
Formal housing as well as informal settlements flooded in low-lying areas of Gqeberha
Over 20 schools in W Cape closed after severe storm
Over 20 schools in W Cape closed after severe storm
A total of 21 schools affected by the Western Cape storms have been forced to close due to infrastructure and road damages blocking access to schools’ premises.
Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier said 249 schools in the province have been affected by the storm over the weekend.
“Infrastructure damages were reported by 150 schools out of the 249, ranging from minor leaks to major roof damage, and we are working to assess these damages at present. Thirty-nine schools were closed on Tuesday, and this was reduced to 21 schools on Wednesday, with the vast majority as a result of access roads to school being blocked,” Maynier said.
Briefing the media after visiting Franschhoek High School on Wednesday morning, Maynier said the school has been closed since the weekend’s storms, as it currently has no water and electricity supply, and substantial flooding to the access roads makes it impossible for 650 learners to attend school.
While other schools are open, Maynier said many schools reported low attendance as learners struggle to reach schools in flood-damaged areas.
“The preliminary attendance figures indicates that 30.1% of learners were not able to attend school on Tuesday, and 31.4% were not able to attend on Wednesday. The officials are working with schools to ensure that all schools can reopen as soon as possible, and we encourage parents to keep in contact with their schools for updates regarding closures.
“The schools will implement catch-up plans to ensure that learners do not fall behind as a result of the school days lost this week. Schools close for the spring holidays this Friday, which will provide some breathing room for repairs and restoration of access,” Maynier said.
Th MEC also expressed his deepest condolences to the families of three learners who passed away over the long weekend due to the storm.
He said counselling support has been provided to families and students who have lost lives.
“We thank the emergency services, our government and NGO partners, and our schools for the assistance they are rendering to our teachers, learners, and parents as we recover from this devastating storm,” Maynier said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 15:01
369 views
Gauteng school finalists in National EduPlant School Garden Competition 2023
Gauteng school finalists in National EduPlant School Garden Competition 2023 September 2023. Five schools based in Gauteng have been selected as finalists in the annual national EduPlant School Gardening Competition 2023. Boitumelong Secondary School, Gahlanso Primary School, and Peter Zongwane Primary School in Tembisa; Masizani Primary School in Atteridgeville, Tshwane; and MC Weiler School in …
UGG Sandal Trends to Try This Spring & Summer!
Summer is around the corner and it’s almost time to put away your socks and boots. When it comes to sandals, spring and summer are synonyms so let your feet breathe and expand your footwear closet with UGG. They rounded up both trendy and classic options, so you can find the styles that best suit …