Teacher Posts: Western Cape Education Department Quizzed in Parliament
“We’re not retrenching teachers. We’re reducing posts,” says WCED head
Western Cape
One Week to Go Until Investors Unite at AEW
The largest gathering of energy stakeholders on the African continent is gearing up to welcome global and African energy stakeholders for five days of dialogue and deals. African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy 2024 – dubbed the premier event for the African energy sector – will take place from November 4-8 in Cape Town, South Africa. The foremost platform to sign deals and further the agenda towards making energy poverty history by 2030, the conference will feature seven stages, including five content stages, two technical hubs and a full day of pre-event workshops.
With over 125 million barrels of proven oil reserves, 620 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and abundant opportunities in solar, wind and green hydrogen, Africa has the potential to become a global hub for energy. African energy demand is projected to more than double by 2050, with fossil fuels anticipated to account for up to 60% of the continent's energy mix by 2040. As such, this year's conference promises to drive a new wave of investment across the African energy sector, with industry experts and thought-leaders, African governments and national oil companies (NOCs), and energy investors leading discussions on the challenges and opportunities found on the continent.
AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
Africa's energy industry is both the backbone of the continent's economy and a catalyst for sustainable growth worldwide. As such, the AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 conference will feature a series of pre-event interactive workshops, providing an opportunity for companies to share in-depth knowledge and exchange ideas with a targeted group of delegates. The workshops, hosted by companies such as Rystad Energy, NCDMB, CLG, Energeo Alliance and S&P Global Commodity Insights, will cover various topics including energizing Africa amid the global energy transition; legislative and regulatory context for promoting investment in exploration; and facilitating investments and mergers and acquisitions across the continent.
A high-level opening ceremony will kick off at the Cape Town International Convention Center (CTICC) on the first day of the event. The opening ceremony will feature addresses from Angola's Minister of Mineral Resources and Petroleum Diamantino Azevedo and South Africa's Minister of Electricity and Energy Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, and discussions with the likes of Dr. Omar Farouk, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers' Organization and Chairman and CEO of upstream oil company Kosmos Energy Andy Inglis. The AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 opening will kick off a week of intense dialogue on the future of the African energy industry. The opening will also feature a number of panel discussions focusing on the vital role Africa plays in addressing global energy security, as well as keynote addresses from the heads of some of the largest energy companies in the world.
Representing the entire energy value chain from oil and gas to renewable energy to power and infrastructure, AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 will feature a massive slate of regional ministers with the aim of unpacking the continent's strategies to make energy poverty history by 2030. Ministers from Libya and Algeria are poised to showcase North Africa's ambitious production targets while aiming to plug Europe's energy gap and enhance domestic energy access. Southern Africa's ripe opportunities in energy and mining will be put on display by ministers from Mozambique, Angola, South Africa, Zambia and Namibia while West African ministers from the MSGBC region, Nigeria, Ghana and Burkina Faso will provide updates on ongoing projects. With major producers such as Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and the Republic of the Congo (ROC) inviting investors to support diversification efforts in production and refining, regional ministers from Central Africa will share insight into available opportunities in oil and gas, mining and infrastructure. Meanwhile, as a frontier market, East Africa is incentivizing exploration in both on- and offshore basins while driving infrastructure and field development projects forward and will be represented by energy and mining ministers from Ethiopia, Uganda, and South Sudan.
Africa is accelerating the pace of upstream projects with the aim of boosting production and intra-African petroleum distribution. Across both mature and emerging hydrocarbon markets, investment opportunities continue to emerge, and as such, AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 will feature a strong lineup of VIP speakers from energy supermajors Eni, bp, Chevron and TotalEnergies. The event will also feature representatives from some of the continent's most important energy players including Azule Energy, ReconAfrica, Etu Energias, Africa Oil Corp., Wood Mackenzie and Adarco Energy, among many more. The oil industries of African countries will be represented by NOCs from Angola, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, among others.
With two technical hubs on the exhibition floor of the CTICC, the conference serves as a prime platform for companies to provide presentations on various industry-leading technical themes. The AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 technical track features a dedicated stage for asset owners, engineers and technology innovators to present projects, provide deep insights into cutting-edge solutions, and share best practices to foster knowledge. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the future of energy and learn about ground-breaking projects while discovering new opportunities for collaboration and investment. An exclusive exhibition-only pass grants delegates access to both the innovative exhibition floor and the technical track.
Rounding off AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024's strong program, a series of technical excursions and site visits across Cape Town offer participants the unique opportunity to gain insight into ongoing projects and developments in South Africa. A guided tour of the Hydrogen Project at the University of the Western Cape will focus on industry technology and development. The tour will also take delegates to the South African Renewable Energy Technology Center at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, which stands as the country's inaugural sustainable energy development technology facility. The excursion will feature a tour of the Atlantis Special Economic Zone, which stands as a promising landmark in Africa's energy landscape while showcasing advancements in sustainable energy solutions, economic development and innovation. Rounding off the site visits, the tour will also take participants to the Eskom Palmiet Power Station, a hydroelectric pumped storage facility that plays a key role in stabilizing the national power grid.
“AEW 2024 stands at the center of African energy and provides an unparalleled platform to forge partnerships, share knowledge and drive progress in the continent's energy sector. It is our collective responsibility to prioritize energy poverty alleviation and sustainable development, ensuring a brighter future for all Africans. We look very much forward to kicking off this exciting event and welcoming hundreds of delegates from all over the world to drive Africa's energy needs,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
During the AEW: Invest in African Energy 2024 conference, delegates will be exposed to project updates, industry highlights, investment opportunities and strategies that address the continent's goals for eradicating energy poverty and promoting environmental sustainability. With one week to go, the conference is already stacking up to become the foremost energy event of its kind once again on the African continent.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Disability Grant Applicant Collapses: SASSA Responds to Our Story
This is a response to the article published in GroundUp News on 23 October 2024 : Disability Grant applicant collapses in long queue at SASSA office SASSA Western Cape requested a right of reply as they were never contacted for official comment. Furthermore, the article fails to include essential context. In the article, it is …
Operation Shanela nets over 15 000 suspects
Operation Shanela nets over 15 000 suspects
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested 15 298 suspects through Operation Shanela.
The arrests were made between Monday, 21 October and Sunday, 27 October. The recorded arrests are 2 479 more than the previous week.
Operation Shanela includes tracking operations, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, stop and searches, as well as tracing of wanted suspects.
All Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province.
The following arrests were made:
- 3 015 wanted suspects were arrested, representing 1 042 more wanted suspects behind bars than the previous week. These suspects were wanted for various crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, business and house robberies.
- 146 suspects were arrested for murder. The majority of these suspects were arrested in the Eastern Cape (37), followed by Gauteng (33) and the Western Cape (30).
- 74 suspects were arrested for attempted murder.
- 213 suspects were arrested for rape. KwaZulu-Natal arrested the majority of these suspects (89 arrests).
- 1 380 suspects were arrested for assault GBH [grievous bodily harm] during this period.
- 197 drug dealers were arrested.
- 1 314 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs, with 646 of these suspects being arrested in the Western Cape.
- 123 suspects were arrested for being in the illegal possession of firearms. The majority of these suspects were arrested in the Western Cape (36), followed by KwaZulu-Natal (27) and Eastern Cape (24).
- 492 suspects were arrested for illegally dealing in liquor, with Mpumalanga arresting 124, while KwaZulu-Natal arrested 123 suspects.
- 478 drivers were arrested for drunken driving. The majority of these suspects were arrested in Gauteng (110), followed by the Western Cape (89).
Under recoveries and confiscations, police registered the following successes:
- 132 firearms were confiscated in the past week; 26 handguns were confiscated during police operations in the Western Cape; 23 were confiscated in KwaZulu-Natal, while 19 were confiscated in the Eastern Cape.
- 3 443 rounds of ammunition were confiscated.
- 78 hijacked and stolen vehicles were also recovered, which is 21 more vehicles recovered during the previous week’s operations.
Highlights of major takedowns and other successes include the following:
- Police in Gauteng arrested a 23-year-old Mozambican national following the rape and murder of six-year-old Amantle Samane in Orlando East, Soweto on Monday, 21 October 2024. The suspect made his first appearance before the Protea Magistrates’ Court last week.
- The Ministry of Police officially signed a Cooperation Agreement with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, the last metro to join the collaborative initiative. This highlights the commitment between SAPS, the provincial government and eThekwini Metro to enhance safety and security within the region.
- A prosecution-guided, multi-disciplinary operation, led by the Northern Cape Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit, has resulted in the arrest of nine suspects. These suspects were arrested in Gauteng and the North West provinces, respectively. The syndicate is alleged to be involved in dealing with unpolished diamonds and fraud.
- Police seized over 6 000 counterfeit items, worth more than R3 million, during an integrated takedown operation in the Johannesburg CBD on Friday, 25 October 2024. Among the items seized were pharmaceuticals, clothing, bags, watches and perfume.
- Police in KwaZulu-Natal arrested one suspect and are still searching for at least five others in connection with the killing of four people and the attempted murder of one person in Nyezane, Estcourt, on Sunday afternoon, 27 October 2024.
SAPS says police will continue with their operations by asserting the authority of the State to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 10/29/2024 - 09:12
346 views
Police festive season operations in full swing
Police festive season operations in full swing
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, says the police’s festive season operations are in full swing in all provinces.
“The work of organised crime syndicates is being dealt a blow, and we remain hard at work in increasing the speed with which we proactively deal with criminals,” Masemola said at a briefing in Pretoria on Monday.
His remarks come as the country approaches the holiday season in December.
Masemola said through ongoing crime combatting high-density operations, known as Operation Shanela, police have arrested over 900 000 suspects since its inception in May 2023.
Through Operation Shanela, police have seized and confiscated illegal firearms, which are being used in serious and violent crimes across the country.
“Just this past week, 132 firearms were seized and in the previous week, 138 firearms were seized. From April 2024 to date, police have seized more than 4 400 firearms during operations across the country.
“We continue to stamp the police’s authority through increased police visibility, coordinated bold and decisive law enforcement operations and most importantly, improved community participation in the fight against crime,” he said.
Masemola commended the overwhelming support and improved active citizenry displayed by South Africans from all walks of life in assisting the men and women in blue with information to track down wanted criminals.
“We have witnessed increased cooperation and unity displayed in working closely with communities on various cases, including the recent arrest of six suspects linked to the Lusikisiki mass shooting, and the arrest of Phethe Simiao, a Mozambican national, who has been arrested in connection with the rape and murder of six-year-old Amantle Samane.
“I take this opportunity, on behalf of the men and women in blue, to thank our communities, the social media community and media houses for playing their role in broadcasting and sharing information rapidly with all South Africans. This ultimately led police in the right direction to apprehend these cold-hearted criminals,” Masemola said.
He called on communities to continue to work with the police, saying more criminals, more firearms and more drugs will be seized.
“The ongoing mass shootings in provinces like the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Western Cape are a concern, and require us, as the police, to ramp up our efforts to put a stop to these shootings that are often perpetuated with illegal, unlicensed and high caliber firearms.
“These recent incidents have seen us constantly refining our crime combatting strategies. It is encouraging that in most, if not all, mass shootings, arrests have been made,” Masemola said.
He said their operational focus remains on the tracing of known wanted criminals, and the detection and removal of illegal firearms from the streets.
“In all these areas, we have beefed up and reinforced deployments, and also deployed specialised teams, inclusive of intelligence and organised crime detectives.
“It is important to note that these four provinces -- the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Eastern Cape -- are always prioritised, and always receive the largest number of newly trained police officers each year to heighten and increase police visibility in a bid to reduce incidents such as these,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 15:23
67 views
Passing of former Minister Mdladlana another enormous loss for SA
Passing of former Minister Mdladlana another enormous loss for SA
Deputy President Paul Mashatile says the passing of former Labour Minister Membathisi Mdladlana has been an enormous loss not only for his family, but the country and the democratic movement.
“To those among us who have sipped from the well of his wisdom and insight, we extend our gratitude to his family for the grace of sharing him with us through both trials and triumphs,” Mashatile said.
The Deputy President was speaking at the Official Memorial Service held in the Western Cape on Saturday.
The later former Minister and High Commissioner to Canada, Mdladlana passed away on Friday, 18 October 2024, at the age of 72.
His family requested a private funeral which took place on Wednesday, 23 September 2024.
The Deputy President said on Saturday that in recent times, the country has had to part ways with many “guiding stars, companions, allies and cherished souls who have traversed the tumultuous journey to illuminate the way toward democracy”.
“They belonged to an illustrious generation of revolutionaries and servant leaders whose contribution to the liberation and development of South Africa remains immeasurable,” he said.
These stalwarts set themselves on a course to liberate South Africa from tyranny.
“What brings us solace and profound delight is that unlike many of their comrades, they have tasted the sweetness of freedom in their days. A tale I trust they shall weave upon reaching the other side, recounting to those who were not graced with such fortune to behold it.
“Those who have recently departed achieved their mission and fulfilled their personal destinies. yet their work, our work, is not yet complete. The South Africa of true equality for all is still to be fully realised,” the Deputy President said.
The Deputy President said the late Mdladlana was one of the leading lights in the struggle for liberation.
“He was the embodiment of resilience. His life provided a lesson in the true nature of social justice, that one must seek for others what you seek for yourself. He understood that a thriving economy depends on the well-being of its workers. He fought to ensure that South Africa’s workforce received fair treatment and protection under the law.
“During his tenure, he fully implemented the Basic Conditions of Employment Act of 1997, one of the most significant pieces of legislation. This Act guaranteed fair working hours, decent wages and safeguards against exploitation for workers,” Deputy President Mashatile said.
Mdladlana was an activist, a unionist, and a leader who was able to transcend an unjust system.
“He did it not for his own personal gain but for the benefit and improvement of others. He always reiterated the rallying cry that an injury to one is an injury to all,” Mashatile said.
He said Mdladlana walked by faith rather than sight as stated in the great book.
“He hoped and believed that South Africa would one day be free and certainly it is today.” – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 10/27/2024 - 12:23
85 views
Police Committee Chairperson Says Increase in Mass Killings Highlights Inadequacies With Crime Intelligence
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Ian Cameron, is concerned by the continued increase in mass murders in South Africa, which highlights inadequacies within the South African Police's Crime Intelligence unit. The Chairperson's comments follow the two recent mass killings in the Western Cape, where seven people were killed in Bishop Lavis on Thursday and five people were killed in Atlantis.
“The increase in mass killings in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape point to the need to capacitate the crime intelligence services both with funding and human capital that will enable the unit to proactively prevent these crimes from happening. The committee has consistently stressed the need to properly capacitate the intelligence and detective units as they are potent tools that can be used in the fight against crime,” Mr Cameron said.
Also, the committee has reiterated the need for collaboration with provincial and local governments to ensure that these spheres put in place focused strategies to deal with emerging crime trends in their communities. “It is for this reason that we wholeheartedly welcomed the intentions of the Draft National Policing Policy, which highlighted the importance of collaboration, and these murders provide an opportunity to share investigative capacity. Also, the formation and training of specialised units to tackle crimes like gang violence in the Western Cape should be considered,” Mr Cameron said.
The Chairperson said the increase in mass murders provides an opportunity to implement several Safer Cities initiatives, which were signed between the SAPS and provincial and local governments. “The signed agreement has established the necessary framework to fight crime. It is now time to activate the plans and ensure that criminality is confronted head-on,” the Chairperson said.
Mr Cameron also called for the SAPS to leave no stone unturned in investigating these mass shootings and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Next Week’s Budget: Posts for Teachers in the Spotlight
Some provinces hope for funding for teachers, others are less optimistic
Have a sip of butternut coffee
Have a sip of butternut coffee
By More Matshediso
A Bloemfontein-based entrepreneur, who established a healthy alternative to coffee, is revolutionising the agro-processing industry through her thriving business.
Chantelle de Bruyn (34) is the owner of Buttercup Farmhouse, a business that she registered in 2019 with initial plans to manufacture vegetable spices.
The business is currently selling its signature Cucurbita Latte (vegetable coffee made from butternut) and has plans to expand to produce supplement shakes, snack bars, vegetable ice cream, and a tea range.
She is equipped with product development skills acquired through a food science course she completed through the United States (US) Embassy and Consulates in South Africa.
She also completed the Raymond Ackerman Academy of Entrepreneurial Development Programme at the Johannesburg Business School.
“This skill has been instrumental in creating innovation and ensuring that the taste and health benefits of our products align with what our customers need through the value chain,” she explained.
De Bruyn has also partnered with the University of the Free State, which is assisting her with research and product development for her products.
The business currently employs 11 workers, including four permanent and seven part-time employees. It hopes to create more job opportunities as it expands its product offering.
“Currently, you can buy the products at Food Lovers Market stores in the Western Cape, Centurion in Gauteng, and Ballito in KwaZulu-Natal. Online orders will be available in November,” she said.
She has plans to reach global consumers and said the business has received support from the Free State Provincial Government since its inception and received a R50 000 Grant from the National Development Agency (NYDA) to purchase its first equipment.
The Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs has also assisted the business to purchase additional equipment and allowed it to participate in various trade shows.
She added that it also receives support from global investors including interest from the African Women in Trade Group in Germany, who are exploring the opportunity to distribute the products in the United Kingdom and in the US.
Achievements
Buttercup Farmhouse already has a few accolades under its belt. In 2022, it received an award for being the Top Youth Agro Processor from the National Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development.
In the same year, De Bruyn was crowned the best agro developer and most innovative business through the Cwena awards.
The business was also the Overall Winner in Business of the Year by Action Coach for 2021/2022.
Buttercup also won a business plan competition with the American Women Academy with its U.S. Agency for International Development and, sponsored by the US Embassy in 2021, won the Standard Bank Top Women Top 5 Award in 2022, and the Most Innovative Business Award through the South African Awards in 2023.
She was also the runner-up in the Forty over 40 Awards in 2022 and won second place in the Seeds of Change competition in 2023.
“We have also gained recognition from the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York in 2023,” she explained.
Farming background
De Bruyn is also a small-scale farmer who specialises in crop production.
“I have always loved farming, and it’s a vital part of my business. I started farming in 2015 when the Agri-Parks were established in the Free State and I served on the executive committee where I represented youth in agriculture.
“Today we grow crops like butternut that are essential to our vegetable coffee production and have partnered with external farmers to help us grow our butternuts, farming allows us to maintain high-quality ingredients for our products,” she explained.
For more information visit www.buttercupfarmhouse.co.za; or the NYDA:www.nyda.gov.za or call 087 158 6345/5738 or email: info@nyda.gov.za.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Fri, 10/25/2024 - 10:32
116 views
Mashatile to deliver eulogy at Special Official Memorial for former Minister Mdladlana
Mashatile to deliver eulogy at Special Official Memorial for former Minister Mdladlana
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver the eulogy at the Special Official Memorial Service for former Minister of Labour and High Commissioner to Canada, Membathisi Mdladlana, on Saturday.
Mdladlana passed away at the age of 72 on Friday,18 October 2024.
According to the Presidency, the former Minister’s family requested a private funeral which took place on Wednesday, 23 October 2024.
A teacher by training and a former school principal, the former Minister became a member of South Africa’s first democratic Parliament in 1994.
Four years later, he was appointed Minister of Labour by President Nelson Mandela and was retained in this role by Presidents Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Motlanthe and Jacob Zuma.
Deputy President, in his capacity as the Acting President, declared a Special Official Funeral Category 2 to honour the late former Minister of Labour and High Commissioner.
READ | Former Minister Mdladlana to be honoured with Special Official Funeral Category 2
The Special Official Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, 26 October 2024, at the Jakes Gerwel Hall, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 10/24/2024 - 15:35
20 views
Police Minister Confirms Thabo Bester Was Detained and Then Released While He Was on the Run
Bester showed police a fraudulent ID when he was stopped for speeding
Freedom fighter Basil February’s remains finally handed over to his family
Freedom fighter Basil February’s remains finally handed over to his family
Western Cape MEC for Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie and Head of Department Guy Redman have officially handed over custodianship of the remains of struggle stalwart, Basil February, to his family.
The ceremony took place at St George’s Cathedral in Cape Town on Wednesday.
February, who died in combat in 1967 while exiled in Zimbabwe, was one of 49 struggle stalwarts repatriated to South Africa in September 2024.
February is one of three stalwarts, whose remains will be returned to their home province -- the Western Cape.
February’s remains were buried for over five decades in an unmarked grave in Bulawayo.
The Repatriation and Reburial Project for Liberation Stalwarts is a collaborative effort involving several government departments and entities.
The entities involved include the Presidency, the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the South African Heritage Resources Agency, the Department of Home Affairs, the National Prosecuting Authority’s Missing Persons Task Team, the Department of Defence and Military Veterans, as well as various provincial departments.
The project also works closely with local communities, historical experts and governments at various levels to ensure a smooth and dignified process.
In his address, Mackenzie said: “Today, we hand over custodianship of the mortal remains of Basil February, a liberation hero recently repatriated to South Africa, who died in combat fighting against apartheid.
“We honour his family and their sacrifice, and we hope that his return home brings a measure of peace.”
The MEC said February’s story is part of the national heritage, and his fight for justice, equality, and human dignity will inspire future generations.
The Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport has stated that it will continue its involvement in the Repatriation and Reburial Project for Liberation Stalwarts.
The department has also committed to providing support to the families affected throughout this process on behalf of the provincial government.
Last month, the State hosted the repatriation and restitution homecoming ceremony for the 42 South African freedom fighters who perished in Zambia and Zimbabwe during the apartheid era.
READ | Honouring SA’s liberation heroes and heroines
The remains included that of former African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Duma Nokwe; Head of the ANC Women’s Section Florence Mophoshe; composer, musician and journalist, Todd Matshikiza, and other unsung liberation fighters.
In his address last month, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the repatriation and restitution marks not just the end of a long journey, but the beginning of healing for the families they left behind.
The President stressed the importance of South Africans recognising and honouring the former liberation heroes and heroines who have returned to their home country, acknowledging their vital role in securing the nation’s freedom.
“South Africans need to know the names and appreciate the contributions of these returned freedom fighters. I ask that we read out the names of these patriots for all our people to know them.”
READ | South Africans must know the names of struggle heroes and heroines
The country’s commander-in-chief has since tasked Mackenzie with establishing a Heroes' Acre to celebrate the nation’s struggle heroes.
"As I travel to other countries like Zimbabwe, Namibia and Mozambique, they have created incredible Heroes' Acres, where the heroes of their struggle are buried, and those memorial sites have, in many ways, become sacred places of the nation.
“Of course, we may well argue that our leaders and heroes are buried all over the country, but it does not mean that monuments that memorialise them cannot be brought together at a Heroes' Acre,” the President said then. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 10/24/2024 - 10:09
170 views
Eskom’s system showing better health
Eskom’s system showing better health
Electricity and Energy Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has announced that Eskom’s unplanned capability loss factor (UCLF) has significantly improved, indicating that the system is becoming healthier.
“If you look at what the UCLF recorded over the past seven days, you see that we’ve been averaging at about 10 500 megawatts, essentially 10 500 megawatts of capacity that is installed was not available on account of various reasons. [These include] the units failing and units not performing at their optimal capacity. If you had to compare this with the same period last year, it’s an improvement of about 5 000 megawatts.
“That’s significant, and that’s why we have been able to keep the lights on [for a] very considerable period,” Ramokgopa explained on Monday.
WATCH | Minister Ramokgopa briefs media
The Minister was briefing media in Pretoria on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) programme as part of his regular energy security updates.
“It’s important that we’re able to consistently improve this kind of result. And of course, in numbers, it means that there’s less and less reliance on diesel to power our electricity requirement.”
Starting from 1 April to 17 October 2023, Eskom spent about R18 billion to prevent power cuts, down by R12 billion compared to the same period this year.
“There’s less reliance on diesel. And if you look at the open cycle gas turbines (OCGT) load factor, the percentage of time that we’re relying on these at the same period last year, we were sitting at about 8.95% and this year, we were sitting at about 4.59%,” Ramokgopa said.
The Minister believes that this speaks to the improvement of Eskom’s systems, which he stated will be passed on to the end consumer.
Load shedding
Ramokgopa said it was an “anomaly” to celebrate the fact that there were 208 days of no load shedding.
“That should be the standard… The standard is that there shouldn’t be any load shedding, and the standard should further suggest that we should not rely on expensive fuel sources to keep the lights on.
“This is not an achievement but a step in the right direction. An achievement will be when there’s no load shedding and [we] can use a cheaper form of existing generation for us to keep the lights on. And that’s where the Independent Power Producer programme comes in.”
IPP programme
Shifting his focus to the IPP programme, Ramokgopa said that the programme has procured 15 432 megawatts of renewable energy since its inception in 2011, with 8 231 megawatts currently in the market to be evaluated and 1 897 megawatts under construction.
Ramokgopa said the seventh administration plans to be aggressive in procurement, with interventions to improve the programme’s structure and efficiency.
The renewable energy projects are concentrated in the Western Cape, Northern Cape, and the Eastern Cape, leveraging optimal renewable energy resources.
In addition, the Minister said this move has created 85 800 job opportunities and contributed significantly to local economies, with a focus on socio-economic transformation.
Ramokgopa announced that the project has seen significant market confidence, with international and domestic investments totalling R272 billion.
The focus, he stressed, is on making electricity generation more affordable and competitive, to reduce reliance on expensive fuel sources.
“The focal point of the ministry is to ensure that we can reduce the cost of electricity in the country, make businesses competitive, and ensure that [sustain power] in households.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 10/21/2024 - 14:11
235 views
Children call for inclusion of their issues in the National Strategic Plan on GBVF
Children call for inclusion of their issues in the National Strategic Plan on GBVF
Ahead of the upcoming Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) Forum 2024 taking place in Cape Town this week, children in South Africa voiced their concerns that the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP-GBVF) in its current form fails to address their specific needs.
They emphasised that adults continue to hold discussions and make decisions on their behalf without considering their perspectives.
The SVRI Forum 24, held from the 21 – 25 October at the Cape Town International Convention Centre is the world’s key research conference on violence against women, violence against children, and other forms of violence driven by gender inequality in low and middle-income countries.
Representing children at the side event yesterday organised by the Department of Social Development and UNICEF, member of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Parliament and Western Cape Child Ambassador, Inathi Kente (17) made it clear that the needs and concerns of children were unique, and that they deserved to be focused on exclusively within the NSP-GBVF - the country’s blueprint document to address gender-based violence and femicide.
The event was held under the theme: “Addressing intersection between Violence Against Children and Violence Against Women”.
He said that children in all the provinces during consultations about the NSP-GBVF decided that the document should have a separate pillar that focused on children’s issues exclusively.
In a powerful and considered address, Inathi bemoaned the fact that adults continued to exclude them from important decision making processes.
He highlighted the fact that even the side event, which sought to discuss the intersectionality between Violence Against Women and Violence Against Children, was held at a time when children were preparing for their exams and thus were constrained to participate in the discussion.
He said that his colleague and Western Cape ambassador could not participate in the event, as she was preparing for her matric examinations. He himself had sacrificed his own preparations to represent the 21 million children of South Africa at the event. They will not form part of the conference either.
In a detailed and stinging critique of the NSP-GBVF, Inathi said that the current document used very strong language, and was not child friendly.
“The children said the NSP is not considerate of children, and there was no accountability where children’s issues are concerned given that children are not part of the portfolio committees where policies affecting their lives are considered,” he said.
He added that the NSP does not talk to boy or the male child, even though the country considered GBVF as not a gender biased issue.
He said children had no one to protect them, often left to defend themselves against their perpetrators.
“Children indicated that there are loopholes in the criminal justice system with a lot of corruption in the SAPS [South African Police Service] thus they cannot even go and report cases because they are asked to bring an adult along.”
The NSP, Inathi said, referred more to violence against women, older persons, persons with disabilities and does not include children, which showed that the protection of children was not taken seriously.
He said the children called for adequate campaigns to educate communities on violence against children, with programmes and interventions that target boy children.
Responding to the issues raised by the children, Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe committed to taking forward the issues of children as raised.
She said the issues raised by the children were genuine and must be considered for implementation as well as inclusion into the NSP-GBVF.
“The Pillar 7 as advocated for in the Children’s report for inclusion in the NSP-GBVF, will ensure that violence against children receive the desired attention and the priority it deserves,” Minister Tolashe said. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 10/21/2024 - 12:58
13 views
Weather warnings for Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal
Weather warnings for Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued alerts for heavy rain and flooding over parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
Due to a cut off low pressure system, these conditions are expected from Sunday to Tuesday.
“Some areas in the summer rainfall region recently experienced their first Spring thunderstorms, but much of South Africa experienced calm weather conditions over the last few days. This is set to change with the arrival of a cut-off low pressure system, which will impact the southern, central, and eastern provinces from Sunday until Tuesday, 20 to 22 October 2024,” the SAWS said in a statement.
It added that cut-off low-pressure systems are notorious for resulting in severe weather during the Spring months, including heavy rainfall that can lead to flooding, as well as intense thunderstorms accompanied by hail and damaging winds.
“This system is expected to result in widespread and disruptive rainfall along the coastal regions and adjacent areas of the Eastern Cape and the southern and central coast of KwaZulu-Natal, which may result in minor to significant flooding in some areas.”
Additionally, isolated severe thunderstorms are also possible over the eastern and central interior regions, affecting areas such as the Free State, Gauteng, North West, Mpumalanga, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal during this period.
The cut-off low will develop over the south-western parts of the country on Sunday, while a stationary surface high-pressure system will bring moisture to the southern and south-eastern regions.
“These systems will lead to widespread rainfall over parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal mainly from Sunday to Tuesday. Some Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models suggest that accumulated rainfall could reach 100 to 200 mm along the coastal areas of the Eastern Cape and the central and southern coast of KwaZulu-Natal during this period.”
The SAWS has issued the following impact-based warnings:
• Orange Level 6 Warning: Disruptive rain leading to flooding of settlements, roads, damage to property and infrastructure is expected along the coast and adjacent interior between Port Alfred and Mtunzini from Sunday into Monday.
• Yellow Level 4 Warning: Disruptive rain leading to localised flooding of settlement, roads, damage to property and infrastructure for the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, Kouga, Sundays River Valley, Makana and Mdlambe Local Municipality as well Ngqushwa are expected from Sunday into Monday and likely to persist until Tuesday.
• Yellow Level 4 Warning: Severe thunderstorms with heavy downpour leading to localised flooding of settlements, low lying areas, resulting in closure of some bridges and roads, large amounts of small hail and damaging wind to informal/formal houses or structures and vehicles are expected over most parts of KwaZulu-Natal, the extreme eastern Free State and extreme southern Highveld of Mpumalanga from Sunday into Monday.
• Yellow level 2 Warning: Severe storms with heavy downpour leading to localised susceptible roads, low lying areas and bridges, large amounts of small hail that will result in localised damage to vehicles, houses and structures as well as localised damage to informal houses due to strong damaging wind are expected over the eastern parts of both North West and the Free State, Gauteng, the Mpumalanga Highveld and extreme northeast of KwaZulu-Natal as well as over the extreme south-west of Limpopo on Sunday into Monday.
• Yellow Level 2 Warning: Disruptive rain leading to localised flooding of susceptible roads, low-lying areas and bridges are expected south of escarpment of the eastern parts of the Eastern Cape from Sunday into Monday.
Calm weather conditions
Meanwhile, most parts of the country will experience warm to hot temperatures during this period, though cool to cold conditions can be anticipated in parts of the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and southern KwaZulu-Natal due to extensive cloud cover and rainfall.
Calm weather conditions are expected to return on Wednesday as the cut-off low moves eastward, away from the south-eastern coast. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Mon, 10/21/2024 - 12:05
41 views
Government Losing 1,800 Firearms a Year to Criminals
Firearm-related murders in South Africa have risen to 34 per day
Wupperthal: The Town Where You Can Sleep Outside on Your Stoep
But jobs are scarce in this small Cederberg mission town
Move towards electronic vehicles a ‘major industrialisation opportunity’
Move towards electronic vehicles a 'major industrialisation opportunity'
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the global move from Internal Combustion Engines towards Electronic Vehicles (EVs) presents a major opportunity for South African industrialisation.
The President was speaking during the South African Auto Week held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in the Western Cape on Thursday.
“As many of our major trading partners rapidly shift towards EVs, it is imperative that we remain part of this global supply chain. This is a major industrialisation opportunity for South Africa and the region, particularly within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“This will position South Africa as a forward-thinking, green economy. It will advance our aspirations to be a global automotive hub,” President Ramaphosa said.
He acknowledged that decarbonisation presents a challenge to the automotive sector, but assured that government is committed to working closely with the sector.
“The transition towards cleaner and more sustainable fuels – together with stringent regulations in key markets – puts a number of automotive firms and sub-industries in a vulnerable position. Even as the journey to net zero poses a challenge for the auto industry, there is at the same time immense opportunity.
“The local automotive sector needs to position itself to take advantage of the demand for electric vehicles, new energy vehicles and sustainable fuels. The transition to cleaner, more sustainable practices in the automotive industry is a priority for our government. The automotive industry has a critical role to play in achieving South Africa’s climate targets.
“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the private sector to promote the production of New Energy Vehicles [NEV] and the development of the necessary infrastructure to support them,” he said.
READ | President Ramaphosa to address SA Automotive Week
Furthermore, President Ramaphosa revealed that the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, National Treasury and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources are in discussion on the implementation of the Electric Vehicle White Paper.
“This work includes the beneficiation of our critical minerals for the production of new energy vehicles and their associated value chains. It also includes the production of batteries for battery electric vehicles and the development of value chains in the green hydrogen fuel cell market.
“We are working to finalise comprehensive NEV policy guidelines that do not exclude alternative technologies such as hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Consideration must be given to incentives for manufacturers as well as tax rebates or subsidies for consumers to accelerate the uptake of electric vehicles.
“This is not just about creating a greener future but also about ensuring South Africa remains competitive in the global market.”
Removing barriers
The President emphasised that government, through reforms in energy, logistics and other sectors, is working to remove the barriers that affect the sector.
“As government, we remain firmly committed to the work already underway to improve the operational performance of our energy, freight and logistics sectors – all of which directly impacts the automotive industry.
“Transnet continues with its work to revitalise the Port of Durban. It is also proceeding with the upgrade of the Gauteng-Eastern Cape railway line as part of Project Ukuvuselela,” he said.
The President told the delegates that the Government of National Unity looks forward to “deepening our collaboration as government, industry and labour” to achieve the objectives of inclusive growth and job creation.
“There may be headwinds. But in challenges lie opportunities. It is up to us to harness these opportunities to grow, to expand and to transform,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 10/17/2024 - 11:30
332 views
Ombud Lambasts Legal Practice Council
The council and its disciplinary committee not only failed to act in the public interest but also contributed to injustice, says Judge Siraj Desai
PRASA Dealt With the Foreshore Evictees in Bad Faith, Says Ndifuna Ukwazi Attorney
The rail agency has finally returned the group’s belongings, but in poor condition, say the evictees
President Ramaphosa to address SA Automotive Week
President Ramaphosa to address SA Automotive Week
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the South Africa Automotive Week on Thursday.
The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa and Minister of Minerals and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe are expected to accompany the President.
“Government has played a pivotal role in fostering a favourable policy and regulatory environment that has supported growth, transformation, and innovation within the automotive industry.
“The South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM 2035) sets the objective of growing South Africa’s vehicle production to 1% of global output and aims to increase the annual export value of the South African automotive industry from approximately R201 billion in 2019 to R400 billion by 2035.
“The effective functioning of the logistics and infrastructure sector is paramount to maintain competitiveness, as expenses associated with shipping and transportation play a vital role to determine the competitiveness of our exports,” the Presidency said in a statement on Tuesday.
The week is expected to be held under the theme “Reimagining the Future, Together: Celebrating 100-Years of Automotive Heritage, Passion, Resilience, and Ingenuity”.
“SA Auto Week is distinguished as Africa’s leading and pre-eminent annual automotive thought leadership event bringing together auto industry leaders; global OEMs; vehicle component manufacturers and suppliers; international investors; policy-makers; law-makers; decision-makers; regulatory bodies; and journalists across the entire automotive value chain,” said the Presidency.
The South African Automotive Week takes place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in the Western Cape. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 10/15/2024 - 09:03
28 views
About 100 People March in Khayelitsha Against Gun Crimes and Extortion
Crime involving firearms and extortion has prevented the municipality, Eskom and SASSA from providing essential services
Minister George welcomes decision on apportioning of squid total allowable effort
Minister George welcomes decision on apportioning of squid total allowable effort
The Western Cape High Court has dismissed an application by the commercial squid fishing sector, which sought to set aside a decision by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) on apportioning 15% of the squid total allowable effort (TAE) to the small-scale fisheries sector and 85% thereof to the commercial squid sector.
The application by SASMIA NPC (the South African Squid Management Industrial Association) was dismissed on Friday, 11 October by Acting Judge Pangaker of the Western Cape Division of the High Court.
In welcoming the court’s decision, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said the ruling was a victory for small-scale fishing cooperatives.
Historically, squid was not included in the allocation of fishing rights to small-scale fishing cooperatives.
Squid was included on an ad hoc basis in the allocation of fishing rights to specific small-scale fishing co-operatives in their respective resource allocation schedules.
“The decision to apportion 15% of the annual squid total allowable effort to the small-scale fisheries sector is intended to bring about inclusion and socio-economic stability for the small-scale fishers within the fishing industry.
“The decision of the Western Cape High Court is therefore a victory for the department and for the members of the small-scale fishing cooperatives, who rely on fishing as a source of income and food security to feed their families and to look after their communities,” George said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 10/14/2024 - 13:56
238 views
Government activities for the week 14 – 18 October 2024
Government activities for the week 14 – 18 October 2024
From 13 – 17 October, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina participates in the 9th Africa Water Week and 7th Cairo Water Week. The event concludes on 17 October.
From 13 – 14 October, the leadership of the North West Provincial Government, led by Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi, will hold a two-day EXCO Planning Lekgotla to identify the provincial government’s key priorities for the next five years.
On Monday, 14 October, the Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, briefs media on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan.
On Monday, 14 October, the Public Service Commission (PSC) briefs media on the PSC’s Quarterly Bulletin titled, ‘The Pulse of the Public Service for the period: 01 April to 30 June 2024’.
On Monday, 14 October, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube and Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule, joined by North West Education MEC, Viola Motsumi, will host a media briefing following a Listening and Learning visit to the North West.
On Monday, 14 October, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) hosts a career day aimed at exposing about 70 learners from Mamelodi, Soshanguve, Soweto, Tembisa, and Kempton Park to diverse career paths within the agency and the broader rail industry.
On Monday, 14 October, the Department of Employment and Labour hosts a career and jobs fair in the North West province this week. The jobs fair will conclude on 16 October.
On Monday, 14 October, the Department of Employment and Labour hosts an Occupational Health and Safety conference with the construction industry. The conference will conclude on 15 October.
On Tuesday, 15 October, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, and Deputy Ministers Bernice Swarts and Narend Singh, will brief media on their 100 days in offices in Cape Town.
On Tuesday, 15 October, the Western Cape provincial government will conduct free inspections for vehicles of scholar transport operators in the Cape Town and Swartland areas at the Gene Louw Traffic College and Malmesbury Testing Centre from 08h30 to 15h00.
On Wednesday, 16 October, the Department of Employment and Labour launches the Occupational Health and Safety Prevention Accord and will unveil the OHS strategy.
On Wednesday, 16 October, Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, will launch the department’s R80 million cropping programme in Ngxakaxha village, Dutywa on World Food Day. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Mon, 10/14/2024 - 13:30
28 views